Mark Milley

Who is Mark Alexander Milley and Why Should You Care?

Mark Alexander Milley, a retired U.S. Army general, served as the 20th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from October 1, 2019, to September 30, 2023. Born on June 20, 1958, in Winchester, Massachusetts, Milley’s journey is a testament to dedication and service. He graduated from Princeton University’s ROTC program in 1980 and earned multiple degrees from Columbia University and the Naval War College.

Early Life and Education

Milley comes from an Irish-Catholic family, with his father serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II and his paternal grandfather fighting in World War I. His mother was a nurse who served in the Navy’s WAVES during WWII. This background instilled in him a sense of duty and service that would shape his military career.

Command and Staff Positions

Milley held numerous command and staff positions throughout his career, including assignments with eight divisions and units. He served as the chief of staff of the Army from 2015 to 2019, emphasizing readiness and modernization efforts. His tenure saw significant initiatives such as the modernization of warfighting concepts through cross-functional teams researching advanced technologies.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

As chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Milley was the highest-ranking officer in the U.S. Armed Forces and a key advisor to the president. His official portrait was unveiled at the Pentagon on January 10, 2025, but was removed within hours of Donald Trump’s inauguration. This move sparked controversy and raised questions about his role during the transition.

Key Initiatives

Milley spearheaded several major initiatives, including the modernization of warfighting concepts through cross-functional teams researching long-range precision fires, next-generation combat vehicles, air and missile defenses, soldier lethality, synthetic training environments, future vehicle lift platforms, and assured positioning, navigation, and timing. He also reintroduced the iconic ‘Pinks and Greens’ uniform in 2018 to honor World War II veterans.

Controversies

Milley faced criticism for his handling of the 2020 election aftermath, particularly during Trump’s re-election campaign. A photograph featuring Milley was used without his consent, and he considered resigning over the incident at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Washington D.C., where federal officers dispersed protestors with tear gas.

Post-Service

Upon leaving office, Milley joined Georgetown University and Princeton University as a distinguished fellow in residence and Charles and Marie Robertson visiting professor, respectively. He also became a senior adviser to JPMorgan Chase bank and joined the Harry Walker Agency, a speakers’ agency.

Personal Life

Milley is married to Hollyanne Haas, with whom he has two children. Hollyanne is a nurse who worked in critical care for 18 years and then in cardiac nursing for 15. At the 2020 Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, she administered CPR to a veteran who had collapsed, saving his life.

Post-Presidential Actions

On January 20, 2025, President Joe Biden preemptively pardoned Milley for future potential prosecution from the incoming Trump administration. Trump announced he was firing Milley from the National Infrastructure Advisory Council, along with three other Biden appointees.

Mark Alexander Milley’s legacy is complex, marked by both achievements and controversies. His role in shaping the future of U.S. military strategy and his actions during critical moments have made him a significant figure in American military history.

In conclusion, Mark Milley’s journey from a young officer to one of America’s top military leaders highlights the challenges and responsibilities that come with serving at such high levels. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership, integrity, and service in times of crisis.