It is with my deepest sorrow that I inform you of the passing of the elder statesman of our Submarine Force. A distinguished naval officer and submariner, Admiral Robert L. J. Long passed away 27 June 2002 in Bethesda, Maryland at the age of 82.
A native of Kansas City, Missouri, Admiral Long graduated with distinction from the U. S. Naval Academy with the Class of 1944 and served in a variety of sea billets on surface ships and submarines before taking command of USS SEA LEOPARD (SS-483) in June 1954. Following naval nuclear propulsion training, Admiral Long assumed command of USS PATRICK HENRY (SSBN-599) (GOLD) in August 1960 and USS CASIMIR PULASKI (SSBN 633) (BLUE) in August 1963.
As a flag officer, Admiral Long served as the Commander Service Group THREE/Commander Task Force SEVENTY-THREE and Deputy Commander for Fleet Maintenance and Logistic Support, Naval Ship Systems Command, before relieving as Commander Submarine Force, U. S. Atlantic Fleet in June 1972. In August 1974, Admiral Long was assigned as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Submarine Warfare. Following this assignment, he served as Vice Chief of Naval Operations then Commander United States Pacific Command until his retirement in July 1983.
His wife, the former Sara Helms of Jacksonville, FL and their three sons, Charles, William and Robert, survive Admiral Long.
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Funeral: 1000, Thursday, 11 July 2002, USNA Chapel
Burial: Following the funeral service, USNA Cemetery
Reception: About 1200, following the burial, USNA Officers' Club
Admiral Long had a profound impact on our Navy and the Submarine Force during his 40 years of dedicated, selfless service. He was a founder and leader of the Naval Submarine League. His presence, counsel and leadership will be missed.
Sincerely,
J. Guy Reynolds
President