Edward E. "Ted" Alexander, Capt. USN-Ret

edward alexander, capt. usn-ret
Edward E. Alexander passed away on December 20, 2018 in McLean, VA, with his beloved wife at his side. Originally from Parkersburg, WV, he was the son of Edward E. Sr. and Sarah Lyon Alexander. After graduating from Parkersburg High School, he entered the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated with the Class of 1959. That tour was followed by his first first two ships, USS Jonas Ingram (DD-938) and USS Farragut (DLG-6), in both of which he served as Chief Engineer. His first command at sea was USS Kingbird (MSC-194). He then served as Weapons Officer, USS Worden (DLG-16) and Executive Officer USS Buchanan (DDG-14). For his next tour of duty he had command of USS Richard E. Byrd (DDG-23) followed by Prospective Commanding Officer, USS Hewitt (DD-966). He then commanded USS Belknap (CG-26) before his final tour as Chief of Staff, US Striking Force, Sixth Fleet.

Along the way in addition to graduating from the Naval Academy, Captain Alexander earned a Systems Engineering Degree from the Naval Postgraduate School, a Masters in Engineering Administration from The George Washington University, and an International Security Degree from the National War College. He also served tours in NAVORD and NAVSEA in the Aegis Shipbuilding Program Office, and served as the Naval Aide to the Commandant, US Marine Corps.

In the private sector Captain Alexander has continued his work in operations and business development for numerous contractors in the defense sector. He has concurrently been most active in his community through his service on the Vestry of St. John‘s Episcopal Church and the McLean Citizens Association. He is also an active member of the American Legion Post #18, the Army Navy Country Club, the American Small Business Association, and the US Naval Academy Alumni Association. Other community service clubs with whom he participated are the Tertula Men’s Group at St. Luke’s Catholic Church and the Anchor Detail at Fort Myer.

Captain Alexander is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Ann, and his three grown sons, Edward, Bryan and Bruce, one daughter-in-law, Paula, and three grand children, Dane, Nathan and Kathryn Ann. He also has one surviving sibling, his brother Frank. A memorial service to honor Captain Alexander’s life will be held at Arlington Cemetery in the coming months to be announced later. However, on this Saturday, December the 29th, we are having a gathering from 3 PM to 5 PM at Money and King Funeral Home for all who would like to spend time with his family and friends. Captain Alexander had three things in life that he loved: God, his family and his country.

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  1. Captain Alexander may have been a tough Navy military man but to me he
    was always a kind, well spoken friend of my parents that had a nice word for all.
    I enjoyed the Captain’s strong voice. He could take over a room with a bellow of laughter and light.

    Thank you for being a constant reminder of dedication and service to our country, family & God.

    Fondly

    Elizabeth “Betsy” Beers

  2. On behalf of all who sailed and served aboard the USS Belknap (DLG/CG-26), I extend our sincere sympathy. Our nation is fortunate indeed to have leaders like Captain Alexander, and the Belknap crew in 1982-84 was fortunate to have him as their Skipper. May his family find comfort in your memories of his smile, his faith, and his life of service; a life well-lived.
    Very Truly,
    Mike Reeves – President, USS Belknap Association

  3. I served as a Junior Officer under Captain Alexander’s command in USS Belknap. He was one of the most demanding leaders I ever served with and always expected the best from himself and those who served under him. His command presence on the ship was always felt and there was never a doubt about who was in charge. He always took care of his officers, chiefs and sailors and helped guide our careers. I’ll always remember those challenging mid-watches in the Med or North Atlantic knowing that he was always there to get us out of a difficult situation. RIP Sir. Rich Barnhart CDR, USN (retired)

  4. I was a fellow plank owner on the Hewitt, with Captain Alexander. He was always kind to me, and respectful. I enjoyed serving with him. I think I was an E5 at the time. Sonar Technician. He always made me feel at ease around him.


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