Captain Robert R. Robertson, Jr., a native of Houston, Texas, enlisted in the United States Navy in May 1948. Following two years of enlisted service and completing U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School, he received a fleet appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. Upon graduation in June 1954, he was commissioned as an Ensign. Additional courses of study include the U. S. Naval Post Graduate School, U.S. Naval War College, Harvard Business School, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.

His first commissioned assignment was to the USS Harold J. Ellison (DD 864), where he completed tours as First Lieutenant, ASW Officer, and Weapons Officer. Traveling to the Panama Canal Zone in 1957, he assumed command of USS Jaspar (PC 486). Following that tour, Captain Robertson returned to the U.S. Naval Academy as a Company Officer.

Captain Robertson subsequently served as Executive Officer USS Courtney (DE 1021) and USS Barney (DDG 6) and Commanding Officer USS Mitscher (DDG 35). Other assignments include duty on the staffs of Commander Second Fleet and Office of Chief of Naval Operations.

Captain Robertson reported to the Josephus Daniels from a tour at sea as Operations/Plans Officer, Staff, Commander Cruiser Destroyer Group Eight.

Captain Robertson is married to the former Anne Virginia Capps of Norfolk, Virginia and they have nine children (five daughters and four sons). His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), Navy Commendation Medal (with Combat V), Joint Services Commendation Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon.