Maj. Gen. Robert Dell Orton

Unknown - May 5th, 2010
  • Birth Date: Unknown
  • Death Date: May 5, 2010
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Biography: Maj. Gen. Robert Dell Orton, of Little Rock, who managed America’s chemical and biological weapons and then supervised their destruction, died Wednesday morning at his home in Little Rock. He was 70. General Orton had moved to Little Rock with his wife after he retired on July 1, 1997. His work as the Army’s chief weapons scientist had often dealt with Arkansas because of the chemical and biological weaponry stored in the state. He directed the demilitarization of the Pine Bluff Arsenal, where a significant share of the nation’s chemical and biological munitions once were made and stored. He was one of the world’s foremost authorities on nonconventional weapons and their defense. After President George H. W. Bush and Mikhail Gorbachev, the leader of the Soviet Union, signed a bilateral treaty in 1990 to end chemical weapons production and the adoption of the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1993, it became Orton’s job to manage their elimination. He also assisted the Russians and former Soviet states in complying with arms-control measures under the weapons treaty. At his retirement Orton was the Army’s program manager for chemical demilitarization based at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. A scientist by training, Orton had not planned a military career after his original stint of duty as a Reserve Officer Training Corps graduate at the University of Texas, but the erection of the Berlin Wall in 1962 caused all lieutenants to be frozen on active duty. The wall did not come down for another 27 years, but Orton had long since committed to an Army career. His assignments took him to Vietnam, Iran and the first Persian Gulf war, where he was chief of chemical operations. He received the Army Humanitarian Award for managing the evacuation of Americans from Iran after the fall of the Shah in 1979 and before the installation of an anti-American Islamic government. The German government awarded him its highest order for a non-German, the German Federal Armed Forces Gold Cross of Honor, for coordinating the German armed forces’ defense against Iraqi chemical and biological weapons during the first Gulf War. A quiet and deferential man, Orton was not a quintessential warrior. After his promotion to major general in 1992 he said, “it shows that the Army has a sense of humor.” As a young bachelor officer stationed at the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant at Charleston in 1979-80, he sponsored a community Brownie troop. His permanent Arkansas connection was his marriage in 1985 to Sylvia Spencer, a University of Arkansas graduate and former United Press International reporter at Little Rock who at the time was an administrative assistant to U. S. Rep. Beryl Anthony of El Dorado. At Little Rock after his retirement he was a board member of the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. Orton was born Oct. 12, 1939, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Robert A. and Olga Jensen Orton. He grew up in El Paso, Texas, and towns along the Mexican border where his father was a U. S. Border Patrol agent. He received a bachelor of arts degree in English and a bachelor of science degree in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin, a master of science degree in chemistry from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at Troy, N.Y., and an advanced management degree from the University of Iowa at Iowa City. He entered the Army expecting to do 18 months of active duty and to finish his commitment in the Reserves, but the Berlin crisis changed his plans. During the Vietnam War he was chemical adviser to the Third Vietnamese Corps. Among his assignments were a stint with the Third Armored Division in Germany, professor of chemistry at the U. S. Military Academy at West Point, commander of the Indiana Army Depot, commander of Army chemical activity on Johnston Island in the North Pacific where chemical weapons were tested and stored and later destroyed, program manager for the production of binary chemical munitions, chief of chemical for the Army, and deputy commanding general and then commanding general at the Fort McClellan, Ala., Army Chemical School. In his final role as program manager for chemical demilitarization, he structured an acquisition program for the Defense Department to rapidly and safely destroy the world’s most lethal non-nuclear weapons. Under his direction, the Pentagon obtained health and environmental permits and contracted for the design, constructing and operating chemical-destruction facilities and he advised eastern-block nations on the implementation of new arms controls. His awards included the Distinguished Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Legion of Merit with four Oak Leaf Clusters, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Republic of Vietnam Honor Medal. He was inducted into the Chemical Corps Hall of Fame. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church to give soldier friends who are in Afghanistan a chance to attend. Burial will be at Arlington Cemetery in Arlington, VA on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. In Lieu of flowers memorials should be made to the Walter Reed Society; P.O. Box 59611 Washington DC 20012-9611, the U.S.O.; P.O. Box 96860 Washington DC 20077-7677, the Chemical Corp Regimental Assoc.; P.O. Box 437 Fort Lindenwood MO 65473, the Methodist Children’s Home of Little Rock, or The Methodist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com

Condolences(92)
Pat Nilo
#92
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Words cannot express the sorrow of MG Orton leaving us so soon. He is my hero and will be remembered as a true officer and gentleman. The time I spent under his leadership was a major factor in the shaping of my leadership skills. I just hope I did the "Boss" justice. He did so much for the Corps and excelled in times of need and crisis. He and Sylvia made an outstanding leadership team and touch so many lives. MG Orton will live on our hearts.
LTC (R) Robert C. Neumann
#91
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I am saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He was one of finest officers I have served with. The world is a better place becuase of his efforts throughout his life. He will be missed.
Tyrone A Knibbs
#90
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
At a critical time in my life when I was searching for a reason of "being", to make sense of where I was going or if I was coming, like a father, you taught me wisdom, you showed me love and gave me understanding. The person and career that I have today, I owe it all to you. You will be missed but never be forgotten. Thanks for everything that you and Mrs Orton have done for me. Truly, I love you Sir.
Donna C. Shandle
#89
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
And he sails from our world into the next where he will continue to teach, mentor, love, and educate those in his presence. God has provided a new opportunity for him as he has magnificently done his work with us here on earth. It has truly been an honor to have served under his tutelage. With heartfelt thoughts for Silvia and the Orton family at this time of readjustment.
mg (RET) JOE RIGBY
#88
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
JUST LEARNED OF BOB'S PASSING. A WONDERFUL MAN AND SOLDIER.ONE OF USA'S FINEST. I'M PROUD TO HAVE SERVED WITH HIM.
Michael Hess
#87
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
A great man and one who was so important to the rebirth of the Chemical Corps and the rise of the US Army after Vietnam... I will miss him.
Roy Buckner
#86
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Dear Sylvia...
I was very sorry to hear about Bob's passing. Please accept my sincere condolences. While I was on active duty in the Pentagon, then-Colonel Orton and I worked very closely trying to convince the Congress that there was a safer and smarter way to handle nonconventional weaponry. It was a thankless and difficult task; that said, the Army could not have asked for a better, more effective spokesperson. It was a privilege to work with him and to get to know him. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Marilyn Brodie Archer
#85
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts and prayers are with our UA classmate during this difficult time. Marilou Brodie and Marilyn Brodie Archer, Hotz and Futrall Halls, UA 1968
BeBe & Pinkney Deal
#84
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia

Our thoughts are with you
MG (Ret) and Mrs. Ralph Wooten
#83
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am

Becky and I were saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Words seem so inadequate, but let us extend our heartfelt sympathy. I never had the privelidge of working alongside MG Orton, but I did follow him in some of the same assignments. I remember him as a brilliant man who exemplified dedication to family and commitment to military service and in particular to the US Army Chemical Corps and to "Dragon Soldiers" and their families everywhere. Bob was a consumate professional, and source of knowledge, strength and courage for those who had the privilege of his asociation. His contributions to the US Army Chemical Corps have helped make the world a safer place.
Steve, Debby, Beau ,& Tyler Spencer
#82
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Susie, We miss Bob and his steady influence on everything and everyone he was around. Our prayers are with you.
MG (R) and Mrs. Jan A. Van Prooyen
#81
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Bob Orton was a respected colleague and a true friend. He leaves a legacy of significant National accomplishment as well as the countless soldiers and civilians who he taught, mentored, and influenced. I was one of those soldiers. Cindy and I will miss him greatly. Today our thoughts and prayers are with Sylvia.
Roy Williams
#80
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our nation has lost a great leader and an even better man who led with wisdom and grace. Knowing Bob and Silvia has simply made my world a better place. We will miss him and send all our love and best wishes to Silvia. Roy & Kitty.
Pamela Barrett
#79
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Dear Sylvia,
As a Chemical Corps Officer's Wife, I was so blessed to know MG Orton as a great leader for the Corps. As a DOA Civilian working at Edgewood, I was able to support General Orton in several of his command assignments. He was always one of my favorite leaders. He valued his civilians and we knew it. The Corps and the Nation have lost a great leader and a champion. Dick and I send our prayers.
CSM (R) Dan & Patricia Russell
#78
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
The Chemical Corps, the Army and the Nation lost a great Dragon Leader. Our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out the Sylvia and the Orton family. Rest in peace, Dragon Soldier
MARIAN GOODMAN/RON KROUSE
#77
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our family will fondly remember, "General Bob" as the kids would always refer to him. He was a gentle, caring and loving man and husband. His twinkle and kindness will always be remembered. Ron and I will see you in Virginia. Our deepest sympathy.
CSM(R) Vincent D. & Eveline Young
#76
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
With the deepest sympathy and consolences. The Nation and the Chemical Corps has lost a great leader. Our prayers and thoughts are with Sylvia and the Orton family.

Elementis Regamus Proelium!
1SG ENRIQUE GOMEZ
#75
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
To the Orton family, you are in my thoughts and prayers during your time of great loss. I am a Dragon Soldier in Iraq and though I did not personally know MG Robert D. Orton, I see many names of those leaving their condolences and recognize that our paths have crossed... I fully attribute it to the great contributions to the U.S. Army Chemical Corps that MG Orton led and championed. My feet walked Sibert Hall, studied at the J5 course at Redstone, contributed to the Chemical Corps mission at the Pentagon and travelled to Germany and Iraq. I have reaped greatly from his devoted service to the Chemical Corps, the U.S. Army and our Nation. Dragon Soldiers Always!

Elementis Regamus Proelium
COL (R) Tom Anderson
#74
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia, My deepest sympathies to you on this tragic news about MG Orton. The nation, Army, and the Chemical Corps has lost a leader and a legend. We will always have fond memories of his leadership and wit. I will always remember Desert Storm and you coming to visit our Battalion area at Ft. McClellan and my soldiers being amazed that you were from Arkansas. It is truly a small world! And, for you both to move back to Little Rock was great. My only regret is that we didn't have more time to spend together with us being in the same city. If there is anything I can do please call me. I hope when the dust settles a little you will give me a ring. We will always treasure the memories and the days we had with Bob.
Col. Ret. Billy G. and Ann Cook
#73
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Ann and I send our condolences to a valued personal and professional friend which our family will always remember and respect. Bob could be counted on throughout his career and has made a great positive difference in the CMLC and the U.S. Army. Sylvia, your love and committment to and with Bob as a couple and a team has been extraordinary, deeply caring, and comforting for all to witness and to emulate. Thank you for all your efforts. God bless, and may Bob now rest in a much deserved peace.
Peter & Eileen Hoffman
#72
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
General Bob Orton was a thoughtful, intelligent,caring officer and a gentleman. It was a great pleasure and privilege to work for him and to be able to know him on a daily basis as part of his command team. During the time we were associated he had two great loves, Sylvia and the Chemical Corps. I know both will miss him deeply. We all will.


SGT Nathan Lynch
#71
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I never worked with Gen Orton but I am saddened by the loss of a dragon soldier. Everything I've red about Gen Orton makes him look like a fine example of what every soldier should strive to be. I am honored to serve in the same corps that he did. My condolences go out to Sylvia and the rest of their family. God Bless you all.
Patsy G. Watkins
#70
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia -

All of us in the Lemke Department of Journalism were saddened to hear of your loss. Major General Orton was a remarkably accomplished individual, who clearly played a significant role in the lives of so many.

Patsy
Rick and Melanie Weiner
#69
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
A great person, always made a difference. Taught what was important and did so with humility. Whether he was talking Army, Chemical Corps, or the Dallas Cowboys, he was a true gentlemen in every sense of the word. Our thoughts and prayers are with y'all.
Lou and Sharron Jackson
#68
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sharron and I extend our deepest sympathy on the passing of MG Orton. He was a great soldier and a good mentor to me. Lou Jackson
Troy Stalvey
#67
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Lead on, Sir. Lead on.
Toby Shirley
#66
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I only had the opportunity to meet MG Orton once, and it is a privilege I will not forget! It is evident in today’s Chemical Corps that his leadership and vision for the future put us on the difficult, but right path for success. The lives touched and lasting impressions he made will live on; Sir you will not be forgotten! Our most sincere condolences.
Douglas and Hilary Schultz
#65
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bob was a true soldier, he lead us, he mentored us, he praised and encouraged us, and he kicked our butts if we needed it. Not to mention, he was also one of the leaders who helped bring back our corps.

Bob and Sylvia were a most elegant and gracious couple; our hearts go out to Sylvia.

Doug and Hilary Schultz
Brenda Parker
#64
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton was my introduction to the Chemical Corps and the chemical family of which he and Mrs. Orton very quickly made me feel like part of this family. He was truly a dynamic officer and will be truly missed by the chemical family. My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Orton. They will live in my heart and my memories forever. Brenda Parker
SGM (R) Penn Wilson
#63
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia, my deepest sympathy to you and family. MG Orton was a great leader, and teacher. His hard, penetrating questions, when preparing briefings for higher headquarters, always resulted in success up the chain of command.
COL(Ret) Jerry and Diane Pate
#62
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We are greatly saddened to learn of the passing of a true mentor, advisor, and friend. Bob Orton was a loved and respected leader in the true sense of the word. He will be sorely missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to Sylvia and the family.
Jeffrey and Dianne Adams
#61
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia,
Jeff and I send you thoughts of peace and courage along with our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Major General Orton was truly an honest and kind soul and will always be in our hearts and memories.
With Love, Dianne and Jeff Adams
Jeff and Dianne Adams
#60
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia,
Jeff and I send you thoughts of peace and courage along with our deepest sympathy for your loss.
General Orton was truly an honest and kind soul and will always be in our hearts and memories.
With love, Jeff and Dianne
MG and Mrs. Tom Spoehr
#59
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
General Orton and Sylvia provided class and grace to the Chemical Corps at a critical time. His leadership and Sylvia's graciousness made a huge difference for thousands of Dragon Soldiers.
SGM (R) Ed Deane
#58
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I met the General at Mcclellan. My sympathies to the family. He was a valued leader
Walt Studdard, LTC (R)
#57
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
As a retired CMLC Officer, I worked with the Anniston Chamber of Commerce on several iterations of "Save Ft McClellan." Even though he was "ordered not to help those guys downtown," he did what he could to help us. We won (that time). Gen Orton (McClellan CG) did what was right and honorable; he supported McClellan and the CMLC. He was willing to sacrifice his career for the branch; everbody is not like that. Walt Studdard
Chuck and Deborah Kelly
#56
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton will be missed by all he touched; he was the epitome of a self-effacing leader who did the right thing, for the right reasons. All of us Chemical soldiers benefited from his steady hand and wise counsel; he was a man universally respected and liked. We have lost a great-one!
SGM (R) & Mrs. Jerry Curtiss
#55
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia,
We have you in our prayers and hold you in our hearts. Your husband touched many Soldiers and their families throughout his career. His example and leadership were easy to follow, as they paved our path to success. Donna and I send our deepest condolences. May God bless you and give you peace.
Roy Jorgensen - Chief, AMC Surety Office
#54
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts and prayers to the family in this time of loss... Having had the pleasure of knowing and working with him a number of times over the years only increases the emptiness that was felt upon hearing of his passing.
Stephan McAteer
#53
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our deepest sympathies on your loss. General Orton was a valued member of the museum's board and we miss his presence. Our prayers are with you.

Stephan McAteer
COL(R) Doug Norton
#52
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Although I did not have the privilege of knowing MG Orton personally, he was a great American who served the US selflessly for over 36 years. His legacy continues today via the people he mentored including Chemical Corps and other Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and DoD civilians, as well as the prgrams that he led or contributed to including NBC Defense programs in the US and abroad, as well as US ond foreign chemical and biological demilitarization programs. He will be missed.
1SG Michael Carey
#51
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I only met MG Orton once for a short few days. I was a young Sergeant at Fort McClellan, AL and was selected to perform duties and his driver for the week of his retirement services. Him and his wife both left lasting impressions on me. He was a nice man and it can only be considered an Honor to have know him. The Family's thought and prayers are with the 'Rock Steady' Soldiers of the 92d Chemical Company.
COL (ret) Albert E. Fitzgerald
#50
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton's leadership and unique sense of humor is greatly missed. Those of us with the priviledge to have met, worked with or served under him will always appreciate his leadership skills.
Joe Ortiz
#49
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
On behalf of the National Capital Region CCRA, our hearts go out to the family. We are all indebted to his many contributions and will never forget the positive impact he has made in our family.

Respectfully,

Joe Ortiz
VP, NCRC CCRA
Jim Ferguson, COL, USAR(Ret)
#48
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bob Orton exemplified the vision one so aften associates with being an "Officer and a Gentleman." His memory will endure long after the final notes of Taps have faded away.
Krisma DeWitt, LTC (Ret)
#47
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My prayers and thoughts go out to the family, especially you Sylvia. I remember looking to MG Orton as a role model throughout my career. He will be missed by many. May God give you peace.
Dale and Judy Chapman
#46
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Ortin was a true officer and gentleman. Both Judy and I will always cherish our thoughts of not only working for but with Bob. Silvia I stand by waiting for your call for assistance.
Al Mauroni
#45
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton was an amazing leader and outstanding officer. His positive work for the nation's military should never be underestimated. He will be missed.
Carmen Spencer
#44
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
The Chemical Corps and the Nation has lost a great leader who epitomized "selfless service". Our prayers and thoughts are with Sylvia.
Col. and Mrs. Thomas Woloszyn
#43
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton was the clear example of an Army leader for many then young officers like me who had the privilege to serve under him. He had vision -- something great leaders need -- and brought success to the US Army Chemical Corps. He took care of his Soldiers and spent a career developing leaders of character. May God Bless the Orton Family - you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Charles E. Barber
#42
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My deepest sympathy. This is a great loss to the Corps and to us all.
CPT(R) Keith P. Steinhurst
#41
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I remember you Sir - and there we where, COBC 9-93, seems a long time ago - it is a brave new Corps - your leadership and vision is missed . . .
LTG (Ret) and Mrs. Roy E. Beauchamp
#40
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bob Orton left an indelible impression on all of us who were fortunate enough to know him and work with him. His high example of professionalism and his dedication to his Army and his country made us all better soldiers and better citizens. We extend our deepest condolence to his family and humbly offer our gratitude for the joy and pleasure of having known him.
SGM (R) & Mrs. E.W. Phillips
#39
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Mrs. Sylvia,
"Our prayers go out to the Orton family, during your time of Loss... MG Orton's leadership, foresight and vision made it possible for the Chemical Corps and entire military forces to move forward in cutting edge efforts securing our great nation". May God bless this Nation!
Col. & Mrs. Morton S. Brisker
#38
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Dear Sylvia:

Mort and I are sorry for your loss! As hard as it might be try not to think about him being gone as a loss, but think about all the good times that you had with him while he was here.

God Bless,

Mort and Duyen Brisker
Shannon Hazlett
#37
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts and prayers are with Sylvia at this time and always. Gentle hugs to you and your family.
John Gatti
#36
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton was a great genleman and leader. He always took the time to listen and his advice was always carefully thought out. A true caring soldier who will be missed. Our sincerest condolences.
David M. Molaison, Major, Retired
#35
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
I always remembered Major General Orton taking time to talk to me and other junior officers. He was a professional, personable, intelligent and humble man. Looking through the condolence book, I see many of my old bosses and mentors of our small Chemical Corps community. He obviously had the same impact on all of us; a testament to his professional legacy. He'll be sadly missed.
L.M. Warren
#34
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia,
May God give you and your family peace and comfort. This nation, the US Army and our beloved Corps will not realize the impact of such a great loss in MG Orton for years to come. We have lost a true Dragon Warrior and a great American. You are ever in my prayers.
Captain Rj Frazier
#33
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My prayers go out to the Orton family, during your time of Loss... His foresight & vision made it possible for me and many others to make efforts in securing our great nation. He will be missed. God Bless..

Rj Frazier
Fort Jackson
Installation CBRNE/EM
James Lamm, SGM (Ret)
#32
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. The Corps, the Army,and our Country has lost a great Dragon Warrior.
CSM (Ret) Billy Lewis
#31
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton's vision for the future of the US Army Chemical Corps has given us the foundation and limitless possibilities that MG Orton had set in motion so many years ago. May God Bless the Orton Family, You are coninually in our thoughts and prayers.
James A. Rolle Jr
#30
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton, cared for soldiers and their families, he shaped the live's of many Chemical soldiers, and touched us all with his wisdom. My prayers and thoughts are with his family during this most difficult time.

Respectfully
Gerald and Zoraida Mather
#29
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts, prayer and condolences go out to you, a great loss for our country and an even greater loss to MG Orton's family and loved ones, from the Mather family.
John D. and Joan Nelson
#28
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
General Orton was a tremendous mentor that always provided outstanding guidance and understanding. It was always a pleasure to work for and with him. Our travels were always enlightening when we would be able to discuss life beyond the bounderys of our Corps and Service. He will be missed. Joan and I send our heartfelt condolences to Sylvia and all the Orton family.
SGM (Ret) R B Blackshear Jr
#27
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton was a soldier leader !!! and served his country with an honor and dignity . RB & Lee prayers are with his family.

Col (Ret) Paul B. Gardner
#26
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
"Bob was the greatest, always had time to discuss the difficult issues and give sound guidance. He was one of the best officers the Chemical ever had. Our sincere condolences to you Sylvia and to your family."
Bill & Norma Wright
#25
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
You've received your final orders General. Enjoy your well deserved R&R. Sincere condolences to the Orton family.
CSM (R) Kelly D.Pollan
#24
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My sencere condolences. I have never served with a finer officer or gentleman. You will be missed.
Sandy and Kathy Sanderson
#23
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Sylvia in the time of need. Bob will be missed by us and many but remembered fondly.
Mike Forrester, CSM (Ret)
#22
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My deepest sympathy. This is a great loss to the Corps. MG Orton was a soldier's soldier.
COL (R) Larry A. & Marilyn Sparks
#21
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We'll miss MG Orton and will keep the family in our prayers. He provided an example for each of us and supported us when we needed it. As long as I've known him, he set the example and provided the guidance for the Corps and the chemical soldiers. Marilyn and I send condolences to Sylvia and the Orton family.
Sandy and Kathy Sanderson
#20
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you Sylvia in this difficult time. Bob will be missed by us and many others but always remembered fondly.
Joel D Wall
#19
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our prayers and thoughts.
Sarah Parker (Mrs Barrett K. Parker)
#18
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My Condolences, Sylvia
My thoughts are with you in your loss,
We(The Corps, The Army, The Country) lost a good one.
The two of you always come to my mind when I picture what a Officer and Gentleman and his lady should be!
Thankyou
walt busbee
#17
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Greatly saddened by the loss of a true friend and comrade who so eloquently, in his own quiet but determined manner, touched so many Dragon soldiers - young and old. He was a visionary who paved the path for so many outstanding accomplishments by the Chemical Corps, at every level, and by the Army he loved and served so well. 'Steady On' was his mantra and that we will do in his memory.
Amoretta M. (Amie) Hoeber
#16
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bob was not only a treasured and respected colleague but also a close and caring friend. I will miss him. My love and deepest sympathy to Sylvia and all the rest of the Chemical Corps family.
Theodore M. Prociv
#15
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
MG Orton served his country with an honor and dignity that I really respected. He was committed to the elimination of Chemical weapons and bravely took on the challenge. He also had a strong committment to the Chemical Corps and worked hard to make certain that young officers had the right training to advance their careers. His memory will remain with me forever as one of the most significant people I've met in my life.
John and Denise Doesburg
#14
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
You are in our prayers.
Mark Chipman
#13
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
To those that knew the General, they will never forget. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Mr. Barrett Parker
#12
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our Corps has lost a true champion.
Ms. Pat Burton
#11
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My sincere condolences.

Pat Burton
G-8 Budget/Schools Analysis Division
HQ TRADOC, Ft Monroe, Va.
John & Sharon McCann (nee Herbolsheimer)
#10
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
With Sympathy in this time of Sorrow
Peter J. Vega
#9
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
A prayer from the Vega family with our condolences.
BG(R) Stan and Bonita Lillie
#8
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We adored Bob and we love you. We are very saddened by his loss but know he is in the arms of Jesus.
Mandy Lopez, Jr. and wife Martha I. Lopez
#7
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Our Nation has lost a great leader and a gental man. Our condolence to Salvia and the entire Orton family. Our prayers are with you all.
Joe & Dodie DiGiacinto
#6
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Sylvia,
Our deepest sympathy.
Bob epitomized the phrase "an officer and a gentleman" He will be dearly missed.
Lucien and Anna Winegar
#5
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
We are both sorry to learn of the passing of one of the great officers of the Chemical Corps.than
COL (Ret) Karl A. Semancik
#4
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
The country has lost a great leader and a true gentleman. MG Orton led and shaped the Chemical Corps like not other.

Mary and I extend our profound symapathy and prayers to Sylvia and the rest of the Orton family.
Randal L. Kennedy
#3
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
An outstanding officer and always a gentleman. It was an honor to have worked for MG Orton. Our prayers are with Sylvia and all the family. God Bless.

Randy & Injin Kennedy
Patricia L. Nilo
#2
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
Bob Orton was my hero. A true gentleman who was wise and caring. I learned a lot about leadership from him and have many fond memories of his example. This is a great tragedy and a great loss for the Chemical Corps. He and Sylvia were a dynamic command team who left a very special mark on our Corps. He will be missed.
Jon Pool, Jr.
#1
Mar 15th, 2019 11:44 am
My thoughts and prayers are with you Sylvia. I have lost a mentor - not only in my military career, but in my personal life as well.

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