Rear Adm. Bill Byrne is a native of Pacifica, California and is a 1987 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science.  He is also a 2004 graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces with a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy.

As a surface warfare officer, he served aboard USS Cook (FF 1083), USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), USS Vincennes (CG 49), USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) and commanded USS Halyburton (FFG 40) and USS Cape St. George (CG 71).

Ashore, his assignments include aide to Commander, Naval Forces Marianas, Guam and several Pentagon tours including resource sponsor for the Director, Surface Warfare (OPNAV N86); warfare analyst for the Director, Warfare Integration (OPNAV N70); division chief for antiterrorism/force protection programs in the operations directorate of the Joint Staff (J-3); chief of staff for Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet; and commandant of midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy.

As a flag officer he served as commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea, commander, Carrier Strike Group 11 embarked on USS Nimitz (CVN 68), commander, Carrier Strike Group 15 and vice director of the Joint Staff. His final tour on active duty was a dual assignment as assistant deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfighting Development (N7B) and director, Warfare Development (N72) on the OPNAV staff.  

His decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, and the Cheon-Su National Security Medal from the Republic of Korea.  In 2015, the National Football Foundation honored Byrne with their Distinguished American Award.

Last Updated: 1 August 2022