The news of Rear Adm. Robert “Bob” Merrilees’ passing fills the Reserve Organization of America with deep sorrow. Merrilees was a man of service well-known for his dedication and commitment to others and the nation.
After getting a bachelor of science and masters in public administration from American University in 1961, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. Commissioned in 1964 and promoted to flag officer in 1990, Merrilees’ passion for service led him to government work in his civilian life as well, at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida as their community relations officer.
Known for being a “Coastie’s Coastguardsman,” Merrilees cared deeply for the service members under his command. He led with a steady hand in both the Pacific and Atlantic – at home and abroad.
As commander of the Third Coast Guard District reserve inspection team, retired Capt. Henry Plimack, USN, remembers receiving an installation inspection from Merrilees during his time as commanding officer on Governors Island (then the Coast Guard’s largest installation).
“After I introduced him to my unit, he asked me to leave, as he wanted to hear straight from the deck plates and not from the command,” said Plimack.
Merrilees’ dedication to serving the needs of the reserve components led him to various leadership roles within ROA.
“The Admiral was always a mentor and a source of knowledge when I became chair of the Coast Guard Affairs Committee,” said ROA past national president, retired Coast Guard Capt. Bob Carmack. “Rear Admiral Merrilees will be deeply missed.”
Merrilees also served as vice president of the Confederation of Interallied Reserve Officers and as the Coast Guard representative for the Reserve Forces Policy Board.
During his time at CIOR, he was active abroad, even traveling as far as South Africa to facilitate their entry into the organization.
While he may no longer be “with us,” his spirit and legacy will unquestionably live on in the hearts and minds of those who had the blessing of his friendship.
“One memorable quote that sticks out to me is that Admiral Merrilees was ‘too nice’ to be a flag officer,” said retired Navy Capt. Gordon Austin, former ROA naval services vice president. “I never met anyone who didn’t like him.”
“Our hearts go out to his wife Beverly, and his entire family,” said ROA’s executive director, retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey E. Phillips. “Fair winds and following seas, Admiral Merrilees. You will be missed and revered for generations to come.”