Paul F. Gorman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Paul F. Gorman
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General Paul Francis Gorman, United States Army
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| Birth name | Paul Francis Gorman |
| Born | 25 August 1927 Syracuse, New York, U.S. |
| Died | 19 January 2026 (aged 98) |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1950–1985 |
| Rank |  General |
| Commands held | United States Southern Command |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Cross Silver Star Legion of Merit Distinguished Flying Cross Bronze Star Air Medal Army Commendation Medal Purple Heart Combat Infantryman Badge |
Paul Francis Gorman was an important leader in the United States Army. He reached the high rank of General. From 1983 to 1985, he served as the Commander in Chief of the United States Southern Command, which is a group that helps keep peace and security in parts of Central and South America. General Gorman was born on August 25, 1927, and passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 98.
Contents
A Life of Service: Paul F. Gorman
Early Years and Military Beginnings
Paul Francis Gorman was born in Syracuse, New York, in the United States, on August 25, 1927. When he was young, he decided to serve his country.
He started his military journey in the United States Navy as a sailor. This means he joined the Navy as an ordinary member before becoming an officer. Later, he was accepted into the United States Military Academy, also known as West Point. This is a very famous school where future Army officers are trained. He graduated from West Point in 1950.
Leading the Way: Military Career
After graduating, Paul F. Gorman became an officer in the United States Army. He served for many years, from 1950 to 1985, showing great dedication. He was involved in important events, including the Vietnam War.
Important Roles and Commands
General Gorman rose through the ranks because of his skills and leadership. His most significant role was serving as the Commander in Chief of the United States Southern Command (USCINCSO). In this position, he was responsible for military operations and partnerships in a large area, including Central and South America. This command works to protect U.S. interests and support stability in the region.
Life After the Military
After a long and distinguished career, General Gorman retired from the Army in 1985. He and his wife, Ruth, moved to their farm called Cardinal Point in Afton, Virginia. There, they enjoyed a quieter life, raising cattle and growing wine grapes.
Helping the Nation and Beyond
Even after retiring from the military, General Gorman continued to contribute his knowledge and experience. He worked as an advisor for important organizations like the Institute for Defense Analyses and the Defense Science Board. These groups help the government make smart decisions about defense and security.
He also served on three special groups created by the White House. These groups studied important national issues. For example, one group looked at ways to prevent certain types of serious problems in society. Another focused on improving how the military is managed. A third group thought about long-term plans for national safety.
General Gorman also shared his expertise at the University of Virginia. He was an assistant professor in the Department of Neurosurgery's Health Sciences Center. His work there involved looking at how information technology could improve health care.
Paul and Ruth Gorman had a family with two sons and one daughter.
Honored for Service
Throughout his career, General Gorman received many awards for his bravery and outstanding service. These awards recognized his courage in battle and his excellent leadership.
Some of his most notable awards included:
- Distinguished Service Cross: This is a very high award given for extreme bravery in combat.
- Silver Star: Awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States.
- Legion of Merit: Given for exceptionally meritorious conduct and outstanding service.
- Distinguished Flying Cross: Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.
- Bronze Star: Given for heroic or meritorious achievement or service in a combat zone.
- Air Medal: Awarded for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.
- Army Commendation Medal: Given for heroic acts or meritorious service.
- Purple Heart: Awarded to service members who have been wounded or killed in action.
He also earned special badges like the Combat Infantryman Badge, which shows he served in ground combat, and the US Army Airborne senior parachutist badge, for his skills in airborne operations.
Remembering General Gorman
General Paul Francis Gorman passed away on January 19, 2026. He was 98 years old. He is remembered for his long and dedicated service to the United States, both in the military and in his civilian life.
Images for kids
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The Combat Infantryman Badge, awarded for active participation in ground combat.
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The US Army Airborne senior parachutist badge, showing skill in parachute jumps.
