Victor G. Guillory facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Victor G. Guillory
Nickname(s)	Vic
Born	New Orleans, Louisiana
Allegiance	United States
Service/branch	United States Navy
Years of service	1978–2009
Rank	Rear Admiral
Commands held	United States Naval Forces Southern Command United States Fourth Fleet USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) USS Underwood (FFG-36)
Awards	Legion of Merit (4) Defense Meritorious Service Medal Meritorious Service Medal (2) Navy Commendation Medal (with Combat V) (2) Navy Achievement Medal

Victor G. Guillory is a retired United States Navy Rear Admiral. In his last role, he was the Commander of the United States Fourth Fleet. This fleet is a special part of the U.S. Navy that works in the waters around Central and South America.

Early Life and Navy Start

Victor G. Guillory was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He finished high school in 1973. Then, he went to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated in 1978 with a degree in Management and Technology.

His first jobs at sea were on different Navy ships. He served on the USS Towers (DDG-9), which was a guided-missile destroyer. He also worked on the USS Lewis B. Puller (FFG-23), a guided-missile frigate. Later, he was on the cruiser USS Vincennes (CG-49). He even helped start up a new ship, the USS Gettysburg (CG-64), as its executive officer.

Leading Ships at Sea

Guillory later became the commanding officer of two ships. He led the guided-missile frigate USS Underwood (FFG-36). He also commanded the cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57). Leading a ship means he was in charge of everyone and everything on board.

Working on Land

When he wasn't at sea, Guillory had several important jobs on land. He worked for a short time helping with Navy recruiting in his hometown. He also had jobs in Washington D.C. These roles included working in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He helped manage combat systems for surface ships. He also worked with the Joint Staff, which helps coordinate all branches of the military.

Becoming a Flag Officer

In 2004, Victor Guillory was chosen to become a flag officer. This is a high rank in the Navy, like a general in the Army. He became a Rear Admiral.

Leading Amphibious Operations

In October 2004, he took command of the Amphibious Force for the United States Seventh Fleet. This meant he was in charge of operations where Navy ships land troops and equipment on shore. He worked on these missions across the Western Pacific Ocean.

He also helped with a big relief effort in early 2005. This was after a terrible tsunami hit Southeast Asia. He was the deputy commander for the United States Naval Forces helping with this disaster.

Important Roles in Washington D.C.

In December 2006, Guillory returned to Washington D.C. He worked in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations. He helped manage the needs and resources for all surface combatant ships. These are the Navy's fighting ships that operate on the ocean's surface.

In June 2009, Guillory was chosen for another big command. He became the leader of the United States Naval Forces Southern Command. He also led the United States Fourth Fleet.

Further Education and Recognition

Guillory also studied at the National Defense University. This is a special school for military leaders. In 2009, he received the Black Engineer of the Year Award for Leadership. This award recognized his strong leadership skills.

Combat Experience

While serving on the USS Vincennes, Guillory was the Operations department officer. He worked as the tactical action officer (TAO) during important moments. This meant he helped make quick decisions during intense situations. He was involved in a challenging event on July 3, 1988. During this time, he played a key role in the ship's actions.

Awards and Recognition

Victor G. Guillory has received many awards for his service. These awards show his bravery and dedication to the Navy.

The Surface Warfare Officer Insignia, worn by officers who have qualified to serve in surface combatant ships.

The seal of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.