Brigadier General Robert B. Finneran assumed his current duties as Assistant Deputy Commandant for Aviation on 9 March 2026. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Auburn University and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in June 1995. Upon completion of The Basic School in May 1996, he was assigned to flight school in Pensacola FL, and designated a Naval Aviator in June 1998 followed by designation as an AH-1W pilot in December 1998.
Brigadier General Finneran’s operational assignments include: HMLA-167, HMM-266 (Rein), HMLA-269, HMLA-467, and 2nd MAW(Fwd); during this time, he deployed to the Mediterranean, Kosovo, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. He subsequently commanded HMLA-167 from 2013-2015 and MAG-29 from 2019-2021.
Brigadier General Finneran’s staff assignments include Instructor MAWTS-1, Aviation Training Systems Requirements Officer (HQMC/Aviation), Director of Special Plans and Policy (J53) Special Operations Command, MacDill AFB, II MEF Fires and Effects Coordinator (G39), and Air Warfare Systems - Assault Support Branch Head (HQMC/Aviation). He most recently served as the Chief of Staff and Assistant Wing Commander for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Brigadier General Finneran is a graduate of Amphibious Warfare School (non-resident), Weapons and Tactics Instructor course (WTI), Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and Air War College earning Masters Degrees in both Military Studies and Strategic Studies.
Brigadier General Finneran’s personal awards include: Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with two gold stars, Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, Air Medal-Individual Action with combat distinguishing device, Air Medal-Strike Flight Numeral 7, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with two gold stars and combat distinguishing device, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with gold star.