V.I. National Guard Honors Former Adjutant General Cleave McBean as a ‘Titan’ Whose Legacy Shaped the Force

The V.I. National Guard is mourning the death of former Adjutant General Maj. Gen. (VI) Cleave Antonio “Van Cleve” McBean Sr., whose 29-year military career began during the Vietnam era and culminated in his appointment as Adjutant General in 2000.

Maj. Gen. Kodjo S. Knox-Limbacker, the adjutant general of VING, honored Mr. McBean’s life and service in a release issued from Joint Force Headquarters on St. Croix, describing him as a leader whose influence shaped generations of Virgin Islands soldiers, airmen, officers and enlisted personnel.

The release said Gen. McBean embodied the spirit of the “Guardian of the Eastern Front,” a motto that reflected his long career and leadership within the organization. He joined the VING as a sergeant in 1977, and through “grit and professionalism” rose through the ranks before becoming Adjutant General in 2000.

“Today, the Virgin Islands National Guard stands on the shoulders of a titan,” said Maj. Gen. 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 (NCO) 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.”

According to the National Guard, Gen. McBean’s impact could be seen throughout the force, from his early days as a signal platoon leader to his later work shaping leaders as an instructor at the V.I. National Guard Academy. He was described as a dedicated mentor who credited his own growth to the guidance of figures including Gen. Rudy Francis and Gen. Robert Moorhead.

The release said Gen. McBean made it his mission to ensure that 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 a proclamation issued by Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the Virgin Islands Guard will fly its colors at half-staff in honor of Gen. McBean, recognizing him as a leader “who gave his all to the Territory and the Nation.”

Funeral services 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 who wish to share memories, photos or tributes honoring Gen. McBean’s life and legacy may submit them to [email protected].