Elmo R. Zumwalt, Jr.

Elmo Russell Zumwalt, Jr. (November 29, 1920 – January 2, 2000) was an American naval leader. As an admiral and later Chief of Naval Operations in the U.S. Navy, Zumwalt played a major part in the Vietnam War, where he personally awarded future Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry the Silver Star. A highly decorated war veteran, Zumwalt was also responsible for making major reforms to Naval personnel policies in an effort to improve enlisted life and ease racial tensions. Late in life, he launched an unsuccessful campaign for U.S. Senator.

Flag Assignments

After his selection for the rank of Rear Admiral, he assumed command in July 1965 of Cruiser-Destroyer Flotilla Seven. In September 1968 he became Commander Naval Forces, Vietnam and Chief of the Naval Advisory Group, U. S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. Admiral Zumwalt was the Navy adviser to General Creighton Abrams, the commander of all US Forces. Zumwalt always spoke very highly of Abrams and said he was the most caring officer he had ever known. He mentioned the General was the first to congradulate him when he was chosen to be Chief of Naval Operations.

Related Topics:
Rear Admiral - Cruiser-Destroyer Flotilla Seven - Vietnam

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Chief of Naval Operations

President Richard M. Nixon nominated him as Chief of Naval Operations on 14 April 1970. Upon being relieved as Commander Naval Forces, Vietnam, on 15 May 1970, he was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a second Navy Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally meritorious service. He assumed command as Chief of Naval Operations on 1 July 1970 and retired from that position on 1 July 1974. He was viewed as a progressive commander and was particularly noted at the time for frequent communications to the Navy known as "Z-grams".

Related Topics:
Richard M. Nixon - Chief of Naval Operations - 14 April - 1970 - 15 May - Gold Star - Navy Distinguished Service Medal - 1 July - 1974

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