On behalf of those of us who had the privilege to call Bob our friend, it's incredibly difficult to put into words the loss we feel with his passing. Robert E. Looney - "Bob" to all of us - was more than a renowned academic. He was a constant presence, a generous mind, and a truly kind soul.

Bob spent over 40 years at the Naval Postgraduate School, shaping minds and mentoring thousands of students in International Economics. Many of us worked alongside him during those decades. We watched as he guided officers, diplomats, and civil servants with clarity, humor, and humility - never talking down, always drawing people in. Whether you were a new student, a fellow professor, or a visiting guest, Bob always welcomed you with warmth and respect.

And while he held the title of Distinguished Professor, with 22 books and over 250 scholarly articles to his name, Bob never wore his brilliance on his sleeve. His impact spanned the globe - advising the governments of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Japan, consulting for the World Bank, IMF, and Rand - yet he remained, at his core, approachable and grounded.

But what we remember most isn't just what Bob did. It's who he was. To us, he was a true gentleman - in the old school, deeply respectful sense of the word. Kind, thoughtful, generous with his time, and unfailingly gracious. We miss him dearly. We miss his laughter, his wisdom, and his quiet strength. We miss walking the hallways of NPS and seeing him with a stack of papers in one hand and a twinkle in his eye, ready to talk about oil prices, economic transactions, or the latest student thesis that had genuinely impressed him.

Bob loved the sea. In keeping with his wishes, his ashes were scattered in the ocean - a place he loved and returned to often. It's hard to believe it has already been year since we lost him, but his presence is still felt in every quiet corner of our department, in every student inspired by his teachings, and in every colleague who learned from his grace.

For those of us left behind - colleagues, students, and friends - we will carry his memory forward in our work, in our classroom, and in the way we treat others.

Thank you, Bob, for everything.

You taught us more than economics.

You taught us how to live with integrity, humility, and heart.

With love and deepest respect,

Your friends and colleagues

We walk to honor the quiet yet enduring legacy of Bob. For those who knew Bob, whether through his teachings, writings, or personal kindness, this walk is a way to mark his absence and celebrate the imprint he left behind.

Though many of us are scattered across the globe, we are connected by shared memories and the influence Bob had on our thinking, our work, and our humanity, Walking - especially by the ocean he loved - is a simple, reflective act that allows us to pause and remember him in our own way.

This is not a public event or performance. It is a quiet, personal tribute.

Between now and December 19. 2025 - the first anniversary of Bob's passing - participants are encouraged to take a walk by the ocean (or wherever they feel close to him), reflect on his legacy, and optionally share a memory, message, or photo on this private space.

There is no schedule, no ceremony - just a shared intent to honor someone who gave generously of his mind and heart. Whether you knew him well or crossed paths briefly, your remembrance is welcome.

December 19, 2025 marks the first anniversary of Bob's passing.

Until then, we invite you to take a moment - any time that feels right - to walk, reflect, and honor his memory.

The countdown isn't an event, but to a shared moment of remembrance.

Wherever you are, walk by the ocean, pause in thought, or simply carry his memory with you.