Julius W. Gates

Julius William Gates (born June 14, 1941) is a retired United States Army soldier who served as the eighth Sergeant Major of the Army. He was sworn in at the Pentagon in July 1987 and served until his term ended four years later in June 1991.

Early life Gates was born in North Carolina on June 14, 1941 and raised on a farm northwest of Carrboro, North Carolina.

Military career Gates enlisted in the United States Army at the height of the Cold War on 12 August 1958, He visited Panama during Operation Just Cause and Saudi Arabia during Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was also active on the uniform board - asking for and getting more than 150 changes to the uniform. He retired on 30 June 1991.

Awards and decorations

10 Service stripes. 2005 recipient of the Doughboy Award from the National Infantry Association.