Childhood and Education Journey of Ronald R. Van Stockum in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ronald R. Van Stockum, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ronald Reginald Van Stockum was a highly decorated Brigadier General in the United States Marine Corps. He served in the Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima campaigns during World War II. Van Stockum is most recognized for his leadership roles, including Director of the Marine Corps Reserve and Commanding General of the Fleet Marine Force, Pacific (Forward) in Okinawa during the Vietnam War.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

July 1, 1916: Death of Reginald George Bareham

On July 1, 1916, Reginald George Bareham, Ronald's father, was killed in action while serving in the British Army during the Battle of the Somme.

July 8, 1916: Ronald Reginald Van Stockum Born

On July 8, 1916, Ronald Reginald Van Stockum was born in Newton, Cambridgeshire, England.

1918: Florence Joins the Women's Royal Air Force

In early 1918, Ronald's mother, Florence, joined the newly established Women's Royal Air Force (WRAF) and served as an ambulance driver.

May 20, 1920: Marriage of Florence and Anton

On May 20, 1920, Florence married Anton, which allowed her and Ronald to enter the United States. Ronald was later adopted by Anton and renamed Van Stockum.

June 1937: Graduation from the University of Washington

In June 1937, Ronald Van Stockum graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle with a bachelor's degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps after completing the ROTC course.

August 4, 1937: Assignment to the Basic School

On August 4, 1937, Ronald Van Stockum's first assignment as a Second Lieutenant was to the Basic School at Philadelphia Navy Yard for Marine Corps Officer instruction.

May 1938: Completion of Secondary Battery Gunnery School

In May 1938, Van Stockum completed Secondary Battery Gunnery School on board USS Nevada.

September 15, 1942: Sinking of the USS Wasp

On September 15, 1942, The USS Wasp, on which Van Stockum previously served, was sunk off Guadalcanal.

June 1950: Graduation from Amphibious Warfare School

In June 1950, Van Stockum graduated from the Senior Course at the Amphibious Warfare School at Quantico, Virginia.

July 1958: Reported to 2nd Marine Division as Deputy Chief of Staff

In July 1958, Van Stockum graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada and reported to the 2nd Marine Division as deputy chief of staff.

1970: Settled at Allen Dale Farm

In 1970, Van Stockum settled with his family at Allen Dale Farm in Shelby County, Kentucky, and worked for 11 years as Assistant Dean for Administration at the School of Medicine, and later as Assistant to the University President, at the University of Louisville.

May 1976: Hosted President Gerald Ford

In May 1976, during his tenure with Louisville Armed Forces Committee, Van Stockum hosted President Gerald Ford during the President's visit to Louisville.