He was ordered to Korea in December 1953 where he assumed command of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. Cooley and his wing did not see much combat and took part only in patrolling along the Korean Demilitarized Zone. He returned to the United States at the beginning of April 1954 and after several months of medical leave, Cooley retired from the Marine Corps after 33 years of active service in August of that year. He was advanced to the rank of lieutenant general on the retired list for having been specially commended in combat.
