Craig McKinley

Craig McKinley is a retired United States Air Force general who served as the 26th Chief of the National Guard Bureau. He was the first officer from the National Guard to ever achieve the grade of a four-star general.

Early life and education

McKinley was born in Tifton, Georgia and graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1974. He later earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Webster University in 1980.

Military career

McKinley joined the United States Air Force in 1974. He served in various operational and staff assignments, primarily in the field of fighter aircraft. His operational assignments include duty as a F-106, F-16, and F-15 weapons officer, flight commander, and operations officer.

In 2002, McKinley was appointed as the Director of the Air National Guard, where he was responsible for formulating, developing, and coordinating all policies, plans, and programs affecting more than 106,000 Air Guard members nationwide.

In 2008, McKinley was appointed as the 26th Chief of the National Guard Bureau and was promoted to the rank of four-star general, becoming the first officer from the National Guard to ever achieve this grade.

Retirement

McKinley retired from the military in 2012. Since his retirement, he has served on the board of directors for several companies and organizations, including the National Defense Industrial Association and the Air Force Association.

Awards and decorations

Throughout his military career, McKinley has received numerous awards and decorations, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

See also

• List of United States Air Force four-star generals
• National Guard of the United States