Robert Edward Blake

Colonel Robert E. (Bob) Blake Early Life & Education:
A graduate of the historic first class of the U.S. Air Force Academy (1959), Mr. Blake was part of the first family to have graduates from all three service academies: the Military Academy (West Point), the Naval Academy (Annapolis), and the Air Force Academy. He later earned a master's degree, writing his thesis on laser technology, which informed his work in precision weapons.


Military Career:
Colonel Blake served for twenty distinguished years in the U.S. Air Force. As a tactical fighter pilot, he completed two combat tours in the F-4 Phantom, accumulating over 500 combat hours and famously downing a MiG-17 on April 23, 1966. His career included serving as the Air Force Aide to Vice President and later President Gerald R. Ford, graduating from the National War College, and serving as the Director of Operations for the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, the first operational F-16 wing in the Air Force. He retired in July 1980.


Military Decorations:
His service and valor were recognized with numerous awards, including:

The Silver Star

The Legion of Merit

The Distinguished Flying Cross with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters

The Joint Service Commendation Medal

The Air Medal with 21 Oak Leaf Clusters

The Vietnam Service Medal


Post-Military Life & Family:
After retiring, Bob and his childhood sweetheart, Jean, moved with their children—Michael, Kelly, and Rhett—to Shalimar, Florida. He entered private business, focusing on construction and land development. In 1986, he reentered the national defense sector, working with Rockwell International and later Boeing in precision weapons development. As of July 2025, Bob is still in the defense business working with hypersonic efforts for GE Aerospace. A confirmed Episcopalian and Lay Minister, he has been deeply involved in charity work, including fundraising and fostering newborns.


Jean was his childhood sweetheart who passed away in 2001, but still provides inspiration to their six grandchildren. The oldest and only granddaughter continued at Ole Miss and the legacy of three Delta Gammas. Two more grandsons graduated from college, to keep the education standards to transition to a meaningful and productive life, three more grandsons to follow in the family footsteps.


Personal Interests & Values:
Bob lettered in golf at the Air Force Academy and played basketball under the mentorship of the legendary Dean Smith, who would later find fame at the University of North Carolina. A registered Republican for over 32 years, his conservative values have guided his support for a strong national defense and economic reform.