Robert Lee Hurley

MAJOR ROBERT LEE HURLEY
U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1959

Legacy Biography
Major Robert Lee Hurley, born in California on May 4, 1936, was a member of the United States Air Force Academy’s historic first graduating class in 1959. Arriving at the temporary Academy site as a part of the original cohort of trailblazing cadets, Robert was assigned to Cadet Squadron 5. He dedicated his formative years to rigorous academic, physical, and military training, helping to establish the traditions and high standards that would define the Academy for generations to come.

Upon graduation in the summer of 1959, Robert immediately entered undergraduate pilot training. He completed his initial flight training at Moore Air Base and Greenville Air Force Base between 1959 and 1960, earning his silver wings. Recognizing his exceptional piloting aptitude and leadership traits, the Air Force assigned him to the 1001st Pilot Training Wing at Craig Air Force Base, where he served as an Instructor Pilot from 1960 to 1965, training the next wave of military aviators.

In 1965, Robert transitioned to the 1001st Operations Squadron at Andrews Air Force Base, serving as a Flight Examiner in the T-33 Shooting Star. During this period, he completed Squadron Officer School (SOS), further sharpening his command capabilities.

After completing his active-duty service commitment in 1966, Robert chose to fulfill his passion for flight in civil aviation. He resigned his active commission to join American Airlines based out of Los Angeles, California. Over a prolific 30-year career spanning from 1966 to 1996, he rose to the rank of Captain, commanding heavy commercial aircraft including the Douglas DC-10. Parallel to his civilian aviation career, he continued his military service in the Air Force Reserve, eventually achieving the rank of Major.

EDUCATION

• B.S., Engineering Sciences – United States Air Force Academy (1959)
• Squadron Officer School (SOS) – Air Force University

MILITARY SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS

Years Duty / Assignment Location
1959–1960 Student Pilot, Undergraduate Pilot Training Moore AB / Greenville AFB
1960–1965 Instructor Pilot, 1001st Pilot Training Wing Craig AFB
1965–1966 T-33 Flight Examiner, 1001st Operations Squadron Andrews AFB
1966–1996 Pilot / Captain (DC-10) American Airlines (Los Angeles, CA)


MEDALS AND AWARDS

• Air Force Longevity Service Award
• National Defense Service Medal