Rear Admiral William J. McCarthy, USN (ret)

Bio

Rear Adm. Bill McCarthy, USN (ret), spent over 37 years in military and government service. His Navy career included flying combat missions in Operation Desert Storm. He later commanded the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington. As a flag officer, he served in the National Military Command Center as one of the Deputy Directors for Operations. He also commanded Carrier Strike Group Eight and the Navy’s Operational Test and Evaluation Force. Following active service, he served in the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) at the Deputy Assistant Secretary level. His awards include the Navy Distinguished Service Medal and the OSD Exceptional Civilian Service Award.

McCarthy holds degrees in National Security Studies and Public Administration from Air War College and Auburn University Montgomery, respectively.  He has authored articles and book chapters on strategy, technology, and public policy.

When he is not researching national security policymaking in the Eisenhower Administration, McCarthy and his wife of over 45 years spend their time watching their beloved granddaughter.