Alvin Holsey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alvin Holsey
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Holsey in 2024
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| Nickname(s) | Bull |
| Born | 1965 (age 59–60) Fort Valley, Georgia, U.S. |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1988–present |
| Rank | Admiral |
| Commands held | United States Southern Command Navy Personnel Command Carrier Strike Group 1 USS Makin Island (LHD-8) Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light Three Seven (HSL-37) |
| Awards | Navy Distinguished Service Medal Defense Superior Service Medal Legion of Merit (5) |
| Alma mater | Morehouse College (BS) Troy State University (MS) Joint Forces Staff College |
Alvin Holsey, born in 1965, is a very important leader in the United States Navy. He is a four-star admiral, which is one of the highest ranks. He is also a naval aviator, meaning he is a pilot in the Navy.
Since November 7, 2024, Admiral Holsey has been the commander of United States Southern Command. This command works to keep the United States safe in areas like Central and South America. Before this, he was the military deputy commander for the same group from 2023 to 2024.
He also led the Navy Personnel Command from 2021 to 2022. This group helps manage all the people in the Navy. From 2018 to 2020, he commanded Carrier Strike Group 1. This is a large group of Navy ships led by an aircraft carrier. He also commanded the USS Makin Island (LHD-8) from 2013 to 2014. This was the Navy's first warship that used a special hybrid electric engine.
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Early Life and Education
Alvin Holsey grew up in Fort Valley, Georgia. He joined the Navy through a special program called the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC). He was part of this program at Morehouse College.
In 1988, he earned a bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Morehouse College. Later, in 1995, he continued his education. He received a master's degree in Management from Troy State University. He also attended the Joint Forces Staff College in 2010. This college helps military leaders learn how to work together.
Admiral Holsey has held many important jobs in the Navy. Each role helped him gain more experience and responsibility.
From 2018 to 2020, Admiral Holsey was in charge of Carrier Strike Group 1. This is a powerful group of Navy ships. It includes an aircraft carrier and other warships. Leading such a group is a very big job.
He also commanded the USS Makin Island (LHD-8). This ship was special because it used a new type of engine. It was the first Navy warship to use a hybrid electric engine. He was its commanding officer from 2013 to 2014. Before that, he was the executive officer, which is like the second-in-command.
From 2021 to 2022, Admiral Holsey led the Navy Personnel Command. This command is very important for all Navy members. It handles things like where sailors are stationed and their careers. He was also the Deputy Chief of Naval Personnel. This means he helped make big decisions about Navy personnel.
Leading Southern Command
In September 2022, Admiral Holsey was chosen for a higher rank. He became a vice admiral. He was then assigned as the military deputy commander of United States Southern Command. This command works to protect the United States by focusing on security in Central and South America.
In July 2024, he was chosen for an even higher rank: full admiral. He then became the commander of United States Southern Command on November 7, 2024. This is a very important role in keeping the country safe.
Awards and Honors
Admiral Holsey has received many awards for his service. These awards show his bravery and leadership. Some of his top awards include:
- Navy Distinguished Service Medal
- Defense Superior Service Medal
- Legion of Merit (with four additional awards)
These medals are given to military members who show outstanding service and achievement.
