William Halsey Jr. earned his naval aviator wings at the age of 52, the oldest person to do so in the history of the United States Navy. A central figure in Pacific maritime combat, he commanded task forces and fleets throughout the Second World War, ultimately rising to the rare five-star rank of fleet admiral.
Early Career and Education
Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, in 1882, Halsey entered the United States Naval Academy in 1900. After graduating in 1904, he gained early experience on battleships, including serving on the USS Missouri. His early career focused on torpedo boats and destroyers, a specialization he maintained throughout the 1910s. During the First World War, he commanded the USS Shaw, earning the Navy Cross for his escort duty against German U-boats.
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In 1934, Rear Admiral Ernest King offered Halsey command of the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga, contingent upon his completion of aviation training. Choosing the full 12-week naval aviator course over the observer program, he qualified as a pilot in 1935. He subsequently commanded the Naval Air Station Pensacola and served as commander of the Aircraft Battle Force, firmly establishing his belief in the strategic importance of airpower.
Command in the Second World War
At the start of the war in the Pacific in 1941, Halsey led raids against Japanese targets while commanding a task force centered on the carrier USS Enterprise. He later assumed command of the South Pacific Area, overseeing operations during the Battle for Guadalcanal. In 1943, he was appointed commander of the Third Fleet, a position he retained for the duration of the war, including during the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
Retirement and Legacy
Following his promotion to fleet admiral in December 1945, Halsey served until his retirement in March 1947. His decorations included the Distinguished Service Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire. He passed away on Fishers Island in 1959 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 30 October 1882, Elizabeth, New Jersey
- Died: 16 August 1959, Fishers Island
- Rank: Fleet Admiral
- Education: United States Naval Academy, Class of 1904
- Notable Awards: Navy Cross, Distinguished Service Medal
- Burial Site: Arlington National Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What rank did William Halsey Jr. attain?
Halsey attained the rank of five-star fleet admiral.
Did Halsey serve in the First World War?
Yes, he commanded destroyers, including the USS Shaw, during the conflict.
