Gary L. Harrell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gary L. Harrell
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| Born | June 1, 1951 Jonesborough, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Died | February 14, 2023 (aged 71) |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1973–2008 |
| Rank | Major General |
| Commands held | Special Operations Command Central Special Forces Task Force Bowie Delta Force |
| Battles/wars | United States invasion of Panama United States invasion of Grenada Gulf War War in Afghanistan |
| Awards | Defense Distinguished Service Medal Army Distinguished Service Medal Defense Superior Service Medal (2) Bronze Star Medal (2) Purple Heart |
Major General Gary Lynn Harrell (born June 1, 1951 – died February 14, 2023) was a brave and highly respected United States Army general. He was known for his leadership in many important military operations. These included the invasion of Panama in 1989, the famous Battle of Mogadishu in 1993, and major conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. He served his country for 35 years.
Contents
A Soldier's Journey: Military Career
Starting in the Army
Gary Harrell began his military career in 1973. He became an Infantry officer after studying at East Tennessee State University. His first job was leading a rifle platoon in the 82nd Airborne Division. He also led an anti-tank platoon.
Special Forces Training
In 1977, Harrell completed the tough Special Forces Qualification Course. This training prepares soldiers for special missions. He then joined the 7th Special Forces Group. Later, in 1980, he commanded a company in the 82nd Airborne Division.
Key Operations and Delta Force
Harrell took part in the invasion of Grenada in 1983. After that, he served with the 10th Special Forces Group. In 1985, he joined the Army's most elite special operations unit, Delta Force, at Fort Bragg. He became a Troop Commander in Delta Force. During this time, he was involved in Operation Just Cause in Panama.
Later, Harrell worked as an operations officer for the Joint Special Operations Command. He helped plan and carry out missions during the Gulf War, known as Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
Leadership in Somalia and Beyond
In 1992, Harrell returned to Delta Force and commanded C squadron. He led his troops in combat during Operation Gothic Serpent. This included the intense Battle of Mogadishu in October 1993. During this battle, he was seriously injured by enemy mortar fire.
After recovering, Harrell continued his military education. He graduated from the United States Army War College in 1995. He then became the Deputy Commander of Delta Force. From 1998 to 2000, he was the commander of this important unit.
Commanding Special Operations
From 2000 to 2002, Harrell worked at the United States Central Command. During the War in Afghanistan, he commanded Special Forces Task Force Bowie. He also helped lead the 10th Mountain Division during Operation Anaconda.
From 2003 to 2005, Harrell was the commanding general of Special Operations Command Central. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, he led special operations forces. Their missions included stopping Scud missiles from being launched from Western Iraq. They also worked to bring stability to Northern Iraq.
His last role was as the Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Special Operations Command. Major General Gary Harrell retired from the Army in 2008.
Later Life and Passing
Gary Harrell passed away on February 14, 2023, at the age of 71. He died from a type of brain cancer called glioblastoma.
Awards and Recognition
Major General Harrell received many awards for his bravery and service. Some of his highest honors included the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Army Distinguished Service Medal, and the Defense Superior Service Medal. He also earned the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic actions and the Purple Heart for being wounded in combat.
Images for kids
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Combat Infantryman Badge
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Master Parachutist Badge
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Military Freefall Jumpmaster Badge
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Military Freefall Jumpmaster Badge
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Pathfinder Badge
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Scuba Diver Insignia
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Canadian Jump Wings
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Special Forces Tab
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Ranger tab
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United States Army Special Operations Command Combat Service Identification Badge
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Special Forces Distinctive Unit Insignia
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Overseas Service Bars
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Defense Distinguished Service Medal ribbon
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Army Distinguished Service Medal ribbon
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Defense Superior Service Medal ribbon
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Bronze Star Medal ribbon
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Valor device
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Oak leaf cluster
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Purple Heart ribbon
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Defense Meritorious Service Medal ribbon
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Meritorious Service Medal ribbon
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Air Medal ribbon
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Army Commendation Medal ribbon
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Joint Service Achievement Medal ribbon
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Joint Meritorious Unit Award ribbon
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Valorous Unit Award ribbon
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National Defense Service Medal ribbon
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Bronze service star
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Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal ribbon
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Arrowhead device
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Southwest Asia Service Medal ribbon
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Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal ribbon
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Global War on Terrorism Service Medal ribbon
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Humanitarian Service Medal ribbon
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Army Service Ribbon
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Army Overseas Service Ribbon
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NATO Medal for the former Yugoslavia
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Multinational Force and Observers Medal ribbon
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Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia) ribbon
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Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait) ribbon
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