Harry B. Harris Jr.

Harry B. Harris Jr. is a retired United States Navy admiral who served as the commander of United States Pacific Command from 2015 to 2018. His distinguished career included significant operational commands during the War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War, culminating in a senior diplomatic role. Following his naval service, he was appointed by President Donald Trump to serve as the United States Ambassador to South Korea, a post he held from 2018 to 2021.

Early life and education

Born in Yokosuka, Japan, he is the son of a United States Navy chief petty officer and a Japanese mother. He spent much of his youth in Tennessee and Florida before receiving an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. He graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as an ensign. He later earned a Master of Arts degree from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government and attended the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service.

Naval career

Commissioned as a naval flight officer, he initially served with Patrol Squadron 44 flying the P-3 Orion. His early career included assignments with the National Security Council and as an aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He commanded Patrol Squadron 46 and later served as the commander of Strike Force Training Atlantic. He played key roles in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, serving as the director of operations for United States Central Command. He subsequently commanded the U.S. Sixth Fleet and served as the deputy commander of United States Pacific Fleet before being promoted to admiral. In 2015, he assumed command of United States Pacific Command, overseeing all United States Armed Forces in the Indo-Pacific region, where he was a prominent voice on security challenges posed by China and North Korea.

Diplomatic service

After retiring from the United States Navy in 2018, he was nominated by President Donald Trump to be the United States Ambassador to South Korea. He was confirmed by the United States Senate and presented his credentials to President Moon Jae-in. His tenure focused on strengthening the U.S.-South Korea alliance, coordinating policy on North Korea's nuclear program, and managing complex issues such as Status of Forces Agreement negotiations and shared defense cost discussions. He served until the conclusion of the Trump administration in 2021.

Personal life

He is married to Brunilda Torres-Harris, a former United States Air Force officer. His father, Harry B. Harris Sr., served in the United States Navy for over three decades. His heritage and upbringing have been noted as influential in his perspective on Asia-United States relations. Following his diplomatic service, he has served on corporate boards and remains engaged in public policy discussions regarding the Indo-Pacific.

Awards and decorations

His personal military decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal with one bronze oak leaf cluster, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal with two gold award stars, and the Defense Superior Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters. He has also been awarded the Legion of Merit with three award stars, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars. He is authorized to wear the Naval Aviator insignia, the Parachutist Badge, and various unit and campaign awards.

Category:1956 births Category:Living people Category:United States Navy admirals Category:United States ambassadors to South Korea Category:Recipients of the Bronze Star Medal