In the 1960s, he served as commander, United States Forces Korea during the Korean DMZ Conflict (1966–69).

[2] A 1931 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, his classmates who also became general officers included John P.

[4] While at West Point, Bonesteel received from his classmates the lifelong nickname of "Tick."

[5][6] After carrying out a series of command and staff assignments, he served in the United States and Europe during World War II in a number of senior positions.

Bonesteel retired from the U.S. Army in 1969, died on 13 October 1977, and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery near his father and grandfather.