William J. Flanagan, Jr.

Admiral William John Flanagan Jr. (born March 27, 1943) is a retired United States Navy four star admiral who served as Commander in Chief, United States Atlantic Fleet from 1994 to 1996.

Early life and education Flanagan was born in 1943 in Jesup, Georgia. In addition to his bachelor's degree in marine transportation from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Flanagan received a Master of Arts degree in political science from the American University in 1974 and graduated from Harvard Business School in 1980.

Naval career Flanagan graduated from the Massachusetts Maritime Academy in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science degree in marine transportation and an ensign's commission in the Naval Reserve, joining the Merchant Marine and working for American Export-Isbrandtsen Lines out of New York, where he achieved the grade of second mate. After three years of service with American Export Lines, Flanagan reported for active duty with the United States Navy on May 15, 1967 as a lieutenant (junior grade).

Military awards U.S. Military decorations