General Barry Mccaffrey

General Barry McCaffrey, a highly decorated military leader, retired as a four-star General after 32 years of distinguished service, earning two Distinguished Service Crosses, two Silver Stars, and three Purple Heart medals, making him the most decorated serving General at the time of his retirement in 1996. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1964, he completed combat tours in the Dominican Republic in 1965 and Vietnam from 1966 to 1969, where he held a company command. General McCaffrey commanded the 24th Infantry Division during Operation Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991, successfully executing the pivotal ‘left hook’ attack. Following his military retirement in 1996, General McCaffrey transitioned into a pivotal public service role, serving for five years as the nation’s Cabinet Officer in charge of U.S.

His academic background includes a Master of Arts in civil government from American University in 1970 and attendance at Harvard University’s National Security Program. Prior to his government service, he commanded the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) from 1994 to 1996, managing military personnel and humanitarian operations, including Operation Safe Haven for Cuban refugees. A staunch advocate for insurance parity, drug courts, and veterans’ courts, General McCaffrey frequently speaks at relevant conferences, sharing insights from his distinguished career. His lifelong commitment to service has been recognized with significant honors, including his induction into the United States Army Ranger Hall of Fame in 2007 and receiving the West Point Association of Graduates Distinguished Graduate Award in 2010.

Throughout his post-government career, he has served on various boards of directors for national corporations, including HNTB Corporation and CRC Health Group, and participates in advisory councils for military and national security organizations.