Admiral William J. Fallon, Former Centcom Commander, Joins CNA

Alexandria, Va. — Admiral William J. Fallon, who retired in May 2008 as commander of U.S. Central Command, has joined CNA as a Distinguished Fellow.

Admiral Fallon spent 41 years in the U.S. Navy, where he began his career as a naval flight officer, flying combat missions in Vietnam. Before serving as CENTCOM commander, he served in numerous high-level positions, including Commander of U.S. Pacific Command (2005-2007), and Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command and Atlantic Fleet (2003-2005).

"We are so delighted that Admiral Fallon has agreed to join CNA. His experience at the highest levels of the U.S. military and his expertise on strategic issues will be an essential addition to our research program," said Christine Fox, president of the Center for Naval Analyses.

While at CNA, Admiral Fallon will focus on a broad range of issues including China, Iraq, Afghanistan, joint war fighting, and interagency decision-making.

Admiral Fallon is a graduate of the Naval War College and the National War College, and earned a Master of Arts degree in international studies from Old Dominion University. He has been awarded the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, and the Navy Commendation Medal.

In addition to his affiliation with CNA, Admiral Fallon will serve as Robert E. Wilhelm Fellow at MIT's Center for International Studies.