Barry McCaffrey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Barry McCaffrey
|
|
|---|---|
Official portrait, 1994
|
|
| Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy | |
| In office 29 February 1996 – 20 January 2001 |
|
| President | Bill Clinton |
| Preceded by | Lee Brown |
| Succeeded by | Ed Jurith (acting) |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Barry Richard McCaffrey
17 November 1942 Taunton, Massachusetts, United States |
| Spouse | Jill Ann Faulkner |
| Relatives | William J. McCaffrey (father) |
| Education | United States Military Academy (BS) American University (MA) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch/service | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1964–1996 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands | United States Southern Command 24th Infantry Division |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War Gulf War |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Cross (2) Defense Distinguished Service Medal (2) Army Distinguished Service Medal (2) Silver Star (2) Defense Superior Service Medal Legion of Merit Bronze Star Medal (4) Purple Heart (3) |
Barry Richard McCaffrey was born on November 17, 1942. He is a retired United States Army general. After his military career, he became a news commentator, a professor, and a business consultant.
McCaffrey served in President Bill Clinton's team. He was the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. During his time in the Vietnam War, he was injured three times. For these injuries, he received three Purple Heart medals. He also earned two Silver Stars and two Distinguished Service Crosses. This last award is the second-highest honor for bravery in the U.S. Army. In 2007, he was honored by being added to the U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame.
After retiring from the military, McCaffrey taught at the United States Military Academy. He was a special professor there from 2001 to 2008. In 2010, he received a special award from West Point for his achievements. Today, he works as a military expert for news channels like NBC and MSNBC. He also runs his own consulting company. He often speaks about important topics like helping people with addiction and supporting military veterans.
Early Life and Schooling
Barry McCaffrey went to Phillips Academy and finished there in 1960. He then attended the United States Military Academy (West Point), graduating in 1964. He continued his education at American University, earning a Master of Arts degree in 1970.
He also studied at Harvard University for special programs. While serving in the Army, he attended several important military schools. These included the United States Army War College and the Command and General Staff College. He even learned the Vietnamese language at the Defense Language Institute.
Military Service and Awards
After graduating from West Point, McCaffrey became an infantry officer. He served in combat zones multiple times. In 1965, he was in the Dominican Republic. From 1966 to 1967, he advised the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. He also commanded a company in the 1st Cavalry Division from 1968 to 1969.
During his service, he showed great bravery. He received the Distinguished Service Cross twice. He was wounded in combat three times, earning three Purple Heart medals. He also received the Silver Star twice for his courage.
McCaffrey held many important roles during peacetime. He taught at the United States Military Academy. He also helped lead the United States Army Infantry School. He worked with NATO as a U.S. Representative. Later, he served as an Assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). He also directed strategic plans and policy for the JCS.
The "Left Hook" Attack
During the Gulf War, McCaffrey led the 24th Infantry Division. This division played a key role in a famous attack called the "left hook." His troops moved about 230 miles (370 km) into Iraq. This bold move helped the U.S. and its allies win a major battle in the Gulf War. It also positioned the troops for the final victory of the war.
