Christopher French

Christopher C. French is a retired United States Navy rear admiral who last served as the 46th Judge Advocate General of the Navy from September 5, 2024, to January 1, 2025. He served as the Deputy Judge Advocate General of the Navy from 2021 to 2024. A career judge advocate, French was commissioned into the Navy via the JAG Corps Student Program in 1992, graduating from the University of New Hampshire in 1990, the Villanova University School of Law in 1993 and from the Georgetown University Law Center with an L.L.M. degree in 2004.

In May 2024, French was nominated for promotion to vice admiral and assignment as Judge Advocate General of the Navy. He was promoted and assumed office in September 2024. In December 2024, French submitted for voluntary retirement in the rank of rear admiral, only three months after assuming office; his retirement took effect on January 1, 2025.

Awards and decorations

Defense Superior Service Medal with three bronze oak leaf clustersLegion of Merit with two gold award starsBronze StarDefense Meritorious Service MedalMeritorious Service Medal with gold award starJoint Service Commendation MedalNavy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with gold award starJoint Meritorious Unit Award with bronze oak leaf clusterNavy Unit Commendation with bronze service starNational Defense Service Medal with bronze service starArmed Forces Expeditionary MedalIraq Campaign Medal with bronze service starGlobal War on Terrorism Service MedalNavy and Marine Corps Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with three bronze service starNavy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon with three bronze service starsNavy Rifle Marksmanship RibbonNavy Pistol Marksmanship RibbonCommand Ashore insigniaOffice of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification BadgePresidential Service Badge

Effective dates of promotions