CSDS would like to convey our deepest respects to Dr. Robert G. Bell, who has sadly passed away. We have relayed our sincere condolences to his family. This unexpected news is a real shock to CSDS and we lose a dear friend and colleague. This is a time to remember Robert’s major contribution to international security, NATO and his beloved United States of America.
Robert’s life is a perfect example of public service and devotion to transatlantic relations. In a career with the US Government spanning 45 years, Robert was intimately linked to US foreign policy and NATO’s evolution. Not only did Robert serve as US Defence Advisor at NATO and as Senior Civil Representative in Europe of the Secretary of Defence, but he was on President Clinton’s National Security Council as Senior Director for Defence Policy and Arms Control. Robert also served on the staffs of the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, and he began his career in the Congressional Research Service, which he took up after serving as a US Air Force officer. For many in Brussels, he was also known as NATO’s Assistant Secretary General for Defense Investment, where he played a vital role in ensuring NATO was fit for purpose in a dynamic geopolitical context.
Robert played an important part in the life of CSDS and contributed in significant ways to our research and events. At CSDS, Robert helped our researchers understand better the intricacies of NATO and the transatlantic alliance. Given his experience and natural intelligence, Robert was acutely aware of and sympathetic to European positions within the alliance. As a devoted Europeanist and gifted linguist, Robert was one of those Americans who walked with complete ease in Brussels, Paris, Washington, Atlanta and more. Robert’s unique and warm approach to diplomacy and international relations will be sorely missed by the transatlantic community. Robert was a warm and patient teacher, colleague and leader who will be sorely missed by everybody at CSDS.
Dear Robert, dear “Bob”, you will be remembered and your life celebrated. Rest in Peace.
