General Randy A. George

General Randy A. George is a senior officer in the United States Army who currently serves as the Chief of Staff of the Army. A career infantry officer, he has commanded at multiple levels during combat operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and previously served as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army. His appointment to the Army's highest uniformed position was confirmed by the United States Senate in 2023.

Early life and education

George was born in Troy, New York, and grew up in Loudonville, New York. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1988, where he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Infantry. He later earned a Master of Military Art and Science degree from the United States Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, and also attended the United States Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Military career

Following his initial training at the Infantry Officer Basic Course and the Ranger School, George was assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division in the Republic of Korea. His early career included assignments with the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum and the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks. He commanded Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment during Operation Restore Hope in Somalia. George later commanded the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson during the Iraq War, and served as the executive officer to the commander of International Security Assistance Force in Kabul. He commanded the 7th Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis-McChord and later the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson. Prior to becoming Vice Chief of Staff, he served as the senior military assistant to the Secretary of the Army and commanded I Corps.

Chief of Staff of the Army

George was nominated by President Joe Biden to become the Chief of Staff of the Army in 2023, following the retirement of General James C. McConville. His nomination was advanced by the Senate Armed Services Committee and confirmed by the full United States Senate. As Chief of Staff, he serves as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, advising the Secretary of Defense, the National Security Council, and the President of the United States on Army matters. His stated priorities include modernizing the force through initiatives like Project Convergence, strengthening combat readiness, and caring for soldiers and their families.

Awards and decorations

George's personal awards and decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Army Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, two awards of the Legion of Merit, three awards of the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Ranger Tab, and the Master Parachutist Badge. He is also authorized to wear the Joint Meritorious Unit Award and the Valorous Unit Award.

Personal life

George is married and has two children. His son, Ethan George, is also a graduate of the United States Military Academy and an officer in the United States Army. General George is an avid runner and has completed multiple marathons.

Category:1960s births Category:United States Army generals Category:Chiefs of Staff of the United States Army Category:United States Military Academy alumni Category:Living people