MICHAEL CARNS

CARNS--General Michael Patrick Chamberlain. General Carns, a dedicated and distinguished military leader, passed away on October 11, 2023. Born on June 23, 1937, in Junction City, Kansas, to parents Major General Edwin H.J. Carns and Jeanette Carns, he lived a life of remarkable service and achievement. General Carns demonstrated unparalleled integrity, commitment, and bravery throughout his life. His educational journey began at St. John's High School in Washington, D.C., where he graduated in 1955. His dedication to learning and leadership continued upon his admission to the inaugural class of the United States Air Force Academy, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1959. Later, he would also obtain a Masters in Business Administration from Harvard University in 1967 and graduate from the Royal College of Defense Studies in London in 1977. After commissioning, he completed primary pilot training in 1960 at Graham Air Base, Florida, and basic pilot training at Laredo Air Force Base, Texas. Following pilot instructor training at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, he served as a flight instructor in Laredo. His pilot skills served his country well when he was sent to one of the most challenging chapters in his military service. From 1968 to 1969, he was assigned to the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron in Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, where he flew 200 combat missions in the F-4E during the Vietnam War. He was recognized with the military's third highest award, the Silver Star, for valor during this period of service to the United States. After several command assignments, including commanding the 613th Tactical Fighter Squadron in Spain, General Carns continued to serve at various strategic posts across the globe, reflecting his commitment to international cooperation and defense. His positions included Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff, Supreme Allied Commander of Europe, and leadership roles at Royal Air Force Station Bentwaters, England. Upon returning to the United States, General Carns was continually recognized for his exceptional leadership and skill, securing coveted positions as commander of the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing, Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, South Carolina, and the 57th Fighter Weapons Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. General Carns assumed further responsibilities, including serving as the Director of Operations at U.S. Central Command and base commander at Clark Air Base, Philippines. Before being selected for the rank of four star, General Carns served under his good friend, General Colin Powell, as his Director of the Joint Staff. General Carns would go on to help General Powell guide the United States military through many challenges of the Chairmanship, including the successful execution of Operation Desert Storm. Promoted to the rank of General on May 16, 1991, he was ultimately selected to serve as the 27th Vice Chief of the United States Air Force, taking the role held at one time by one of his closest mentors, General John D. Ryan, for whom he had previously served as his Aide de Camp as a junior officer. Throughout his distinguished career, General Carns earned numerous accolades and awards, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit with three oak leaf clusters, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with ten oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Government of the Philippines Outstanding Achievement Medal. General Carns was also awarded The Most Noble Honor of the Crown of Thailand (First Class-Knight Grand Cross) for his service as Deputy Commander of United States Pacific Command. These honors serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication and bravery. General Carns was not only a dedicated military leader but a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He shared his life with his loving wife of over 50 years, Victoria Greco of Washington, D.C., and two children, Michelle and Marc, who have both followed in his footsteps of service to the country and United States Air Force that he loved so much and leaves his legacy with grandchildren Micah, Michael and Lauren. General Carns will endure in military history, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and those who served alongside him. His contributions to the United States and the world will be remembered with gratitude and admiration. General Carns will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.