Michelle Howard

Michelle Howard, born on April 30, 1960, is a distinguished retired four-star admiral of the United States Navy, renowned for her groundbreaking achievements in a historically male-dominated field. She served as the commander of the United States Naval Forces Europe, United States Naval Forces Africa, and Allied Joint Force Command Naples, marking a significant chapter in her illustrious career.

Throughout her service, Howard broke numerous barriers, becoming the first African-American woman to command a U.S. Navy ship, the USS Rushmore. Her ascent through the ranks was marked by historic milestones, including being the first female graduate of the United States Naval Academy to achieve flag rank and the first to reach two- and three-star ranks. In 2006, she was selected for the rank of rear admiral (lower half), a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication.

On July 1, 2014, Howard was appointed as the Vice Chief of Naval Operations, the second highest-ranking officer in the Navy. Upon her swearing in, she became the highest-ranking woman in the Navy until the appointment of Lisa Franchetti and the first female four-star admiral in U.S. history. Her command of operational forces further solidified her legacy as a trailblazer.

After nearly thirty-six years of dedicated service, Howard retired on December 1, 2017. In 2021, she was appointed chair of The Naming Commission, a congressional initiative aimed at renaming military assets associated with the Confederate States of America, showcasing her continued commitment to service and leadership.