Charles Ray (admiral)

After an assignment as a deck watch officer aboard USCGC Acushnet (WMEC-167), he was selected for Naval Flight Training and earned his wings in 1984.Ray earned a Master of Science degree in Industrial Administration from Purdue University and a Master of Science degree in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in Washington, D.C.[2] On October 5, 2020, Ray tested positive for COVID-19.In this capacity, he was responsible for the development of operational strategy, policy, guidance, and resources that address national priorities.This oversight of Coast Guard missions, programs, and services includes: intelligence; international affairs; cyber; the maritime transportation system; commercial regulations and inspections; search and rescue; maritime security; law enforcement; defense operations; environmental response; contingency planning; and the operational capabilities of cutter, boat, aviation, shore, and deployable specialized forces.[2] During his tenure, he failed to act on plans to share the findings with Congress, the Department of Homeland Security, and the public an investigation into rape and sexual assault in the Coast Guard Academy.
Ray speaks at his retirement ceremony in Washington D.C. in June 2021.
United States Coast GuardAdmiralIraq WarHomeland Security Distinguished Service MedalCoast Guard Distinguished Service MedalLegion of MeritBronze Star MedalMeritorious Service MedalAir MedalCoast Guard Commendation MedalCoast Guard Achievement Medalvice commandant of the Coast GuardNewport, ArkansasUnited States Coast Guard AcademyUSCGC Acushnet (WMEC-167)Coast Guard Air StationsCoast Guard Air Station BorinquenPurdue UniversityIndustrial College of the Armed ForcesCOVID-19vice commandantPacific AreaU.S. Forces IraqSecretary of the Department of Homeland SecurityNaval Aviator insigniaaward starBronze Star"O" deviceCommandant's Letter of Commendation RibbonCoast Guard Presidential Unit CitationJoint Meritorious Unit AwardSecretary of Transportation Outstanding Unit AwardCoast Guard Unit CommendationCoast Guard Meritorious Unit CommendationMeritorious Team CommendationCoast Guard Bicentennial Unit CommendationNational Defense Service Medalservice starIraq Campaign MedalGlobal War on Terrorism Service MedalHumanitarian Service MedalTransportation 9-11 RibbonSpecial Operations Service RibbonSea Service RibbonRifle Marksmanship RibbonExpert Pistol Marksmanship MedalCommandant Staff BadgeJoint Staff Identification BadgeC-SPANCharles D. MichelLinda L. Fagan