It is with a heavy heart and profound respect that Maj. Gen. Kodjo S. Knox-Limbacker, the adjutant general of the Virgin Islands National Guard, joins the ranks of our soldiers, airmen, and the entire Virgin Islands community in mourning the passing of former Adjutant General Maj. Gen. (VI) Cleave Antonio “Van Cleve” McBean.
Gen. McBean embodied the spirit of the “Guardian of the Eastern Front,” a motto that echoed throughout his storied 29-year military career and served as a blueprint for leadership within our organization. Beginning his service during the Vietnam era, he joined the VING as a Sergeant in 1977, his grit and professionalism propelled him through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as Adjutant General in 2000.
“Today, the Virgin Islands National Guard stands on the shoulders of a titan,” said Maj. Gen. Kodjo S. Knox-Limbacker. “General McBean was a visionary leader who understood that the strength of our Guard lies in its people. He was a ‘soldier’s soldier’ who transitioned from the non-commissioned officer corps to the highest levels of command with humility and a relentless work ethic. His dual role as Adjutant General and Executive Director of VITEMA set the standard for the integrated civil-military readiness we strive for today.”
General McBean’s influence is visible in every corner of our force. From his early days as a signal platoon leader to shaping leaders as an instructor at the V.I. National Guard Academy, he was a dedicated mentor. He often credited his own growth to the guidance of legends like Gen. Rudy Francis and Gen. Robert Moorhead, and he made it his mission to ensure the next generation of Virgin Islands officers and enlisted personnel were equally prepared to lead.
“On behalf of the men and women of the Virgin Islands Army and Air National Guard, I extend my deepest condolences to the McBean family,” added Knox-Limbacker. “We have lost a brother-in-arms, a mentor, and a friend. We will continue to carry his torch of selfless service, ensuring that his legacy remains a permanent part of our Guard’s history.”
In accordance with the proclamation issued by Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the Virgin Islands National Guard will fly its colors at half-staff in honor of a leader who gave his all to the territory and the nation. May he rest in peace.
Funeral services for retired Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Cleave Antonio “Van Cleve” McBean Sr. will be held May 22 at Holy Family Church. Tributes will begin at 9 a.m., followed by funeral services at 10 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Smith Bay Cemetery, East End. Community members wishing to share memories, photos, or tributes honoring General McBean’s life and legacy may submit them to GeneralCleaveMcBeantributes@gmail.com.
