More detail on this person: General Robert M. Shoemaker, for whom Killeen ISD's Shoemaker High School was named, has died at age 93, Fort Hood and the school district confirmed Thursday. Shoemaker passed away at 11:55 p.m. Wednesday, according to Retired Lt. General Pete Taylor. The retired four-star general commanded, at one point, U.S. Army Forces Command. Shoemaker served in the armed forces for 36 years before retiring in Central Texas, where he served eight years as Bell County Commissioner. His devotion to creating affordable public education led him to help lead the effort to establish a Tarleton State University campus near Fort Hood. His community involvement included time spent as President of the 1st Cavalry Division Association, President of Fort Hood's Chapter of the United Way and President of the Heart of Texas Council of the Boy Scouts. He was inducted into the Army Aviation Hall of Fame. Killeen ISD released the following statement Thursday: The Killeen Independent School District would like to extend our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to the family and friends of General Robert M. Shoemaker. We are saddened by the loss. General Shoemaker's illustrious military career is marked by numerous recognitions and awards, and just as remarkable is the tremendous impact General Shoemaker had within our community and throughout the world. A true champion for students and a huge supporter of education, upon retirement from the military he served as a Bell County Commissioner and helped lead the community's efforts to bring a four-year university to the area. In 2000, the Killeen ISD Board of Trustees named Robert M. Shoemaker High School in recognition of his accomplishments and leadership. General Shoemaker endowed the Wolf-Warrior Scholarship in 2013 to enable the students of Shoemaker High School to pursue a four-year bachelor's degree through Central Texas College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas. Killeen ISD will forever be grateful for General Shoemaker's commitment to students. 'We will graciously celebrate the life and legacy of General Robert M. Shoemaker and the impact he has had on our community and our school district, which will be felt for many years to come. As a dedicated soldier, husband, community member and American, he positively influenced countless others. General Shoemaker will remain an individual of the highest character we hope our students will work hard to emulate. We have lost a great Patriot, mentor and friend. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Shoemaker family and friends,' said Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John M. Craft. General Shoemaker was 93 years old, and he is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Tuke.
This information was last updated 06/23/2017
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Date posted on this site: 03/10/2024
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