Former 88th Regional Support Command (now Readiness Division) commanding general Maj. Gen. George Steiner died on May 10, 2026. He was 88.
Maj. Gen. Joseph Ricciardi, current 88th commander, had the honor of presenting the flag to Steiner’s wife, Rose, during the general's funeral on May 18, 2026 in Coon Rapids, Minn. Soldiers from 88th RD Casualty Operations supported the service with flag and honors duties.
Steiner played a pivotal role in the history and transformation of the 88th. During his tenure, he oversaw the organization’s major transition from a two‑state ARCOM into a six‑state Regional Support Command and led the force through significant structural and operational changes, including the inactivation of the 205th Infantry Brigade and the mobilization of units for Operation Joint Endeavor in Bosnia. He led the Blue Devils from 1993-1997.
Following his retirement, Steiner continued to serve Soldiers and veterans as President of the Blue Devil Association, advocating for Minnesota Reserve Soldiers and providing ongoing support to veterans at the Minneapolis VA hospital.
Additional details about his life and legacy can be found in his obituary on Legacy.com.