Adm. Bill Gortney, former commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, has officially retired from his 39-year military service.
The U.S. Navy said Tuesday a ceremony was held aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington for Gortney, who recorded more than 5,300 flight hours and completed 1,265 carrier-arrested landings in his career.
Gortney’s career includes leadership of several Navy organizations such as U.S. Fleet Forces Command and U.S. Central Command area of operations, where he provided support to maritime security and combat operations.
Adm. John Richardson, chief of naval operations, also gave Gortney’s wife Sherry a Distinguished Public Service Award for her support to military members and their families.
