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Brian W. Cavanaugh
LtGen Brian W. Cavanaugh (2).jpg
Official portrait, 2023
Born Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
Allegiance United States
Service/branch United States Marine Corps
Years of service 1990–2024
Rank Lieutenant General
Commands held
  • United States Marine Corps Forces Command
  • United States Marine Corps Forces Northern Command
  • Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic
  • 1st Marine Aircraft Wing
  • Marine Aircraft Group 36
  • VMM-362
Awards

Brian Woodburn Cavanaugh is a retired United States Marine Corps officer. He reached the rank of Lieutenant General, which is a very high rank in the military. From 2022 to 2024, he was in charge of the United States Marine Corps Forces Command and Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic. These are important groups within the Marine Corps.

Before that, from 2021 to 2022, he was the leader of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. This wing is a large group of Marine aircraft and the people who fly and maintain them. He also worked as the Assistant Deputy Commandant for Programs for the United States Marine Corps. This role involved planning and managing important programs for the Marines.

Early Life and Education

Brian Cavanaugh went to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated in 1990 with a degree in mechanical engineering. After finishing his studies, he went to flight school. In 1992, he officially became a naval aviator, meaning he was trained to fly planes for the Navy and Marine Corps.

He continued his education later in his career. He earned a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree from Webster University. He also received a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in national resource strategy. He got this degree from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. This school is part of the National Defense University.

Military Career Highlights

General Cavanaugh had a long and successful career in the Marine Corps. He served for 34 years, from 1990 until his retirement in 2024. His career included many different leadership roles.

Key Leadership Roles

  • Deputy Commander of Marine Corps Forces Pacific: From 2016 to 2018, he helped lead the Marine forces in the Pacific region.
  • Assistant Deputy Commandant for Programs: From 2019 to 2021, he was involved in planning and managing important programs for the Marine Corps.
  • Commanding General of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing: From 2021 to 2022, he led a major group of Marine aircraft.
  • Commander of Marine Corps Forces Command: From 2022 to 2024, he was in charge of a large part of the Marine Corps' forces.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his service, General Cavanaugh received several important awards. These awards recognize his bravery and excellent service. Some of his awards include:

  • Defense Superior Service Medal (received twice)
  • Legion of Merit (received three times)
  • Bronze Star Medal

These awards show his dedication and leadership during his time in the military.

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