Who is Admiral Thomas B. Fargo?

Admiral Thomas Boulton Fargo AO (born June 13, 1948) is a retired United States Navy officer who served during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He notably held the position of Commander, United States Pacific Command.

When and where was Thomas B. Fargo born?

Thomas B. Fargo was born on June 13, 1948, in San Diego, California.

What was Thomas B. Fargo's highest military rank?

Thomas B. Fargo achieved the rank of Admiral in the United States Navy.

What branch of the U.S. military did Thomas B. Fargo serve in?

Thomas B. Fargo served in the United States Navy.

What were the years of Thomas B. Fargo's active service in the Navy?

Thomas B. Fargo's service in the United States Navy spanned from 1970 to 2005.

Where did Thomas B. Fargo receive his formal naval education?

Thomas B. Fargo graduated from the United States Naval Academy in June 1970.

What was the specific period Thomas B. Fargo commanded the United States Pacific Command?

He held the position of Commander, United States Pacific Command from May 2, 2002, to February 26, 2005.

How many officers had held the position of Commander, USPACOM before Fargo?

Thomas B. Fargo was the twentieth officer to serve as Commander of the United States Pacific Command.

What was the profession and fate of Thomas B. Fargo's biological father?

Thomas B. Fargo's biological father, Thomas A. Boulton, was a naval officer who tragically died in a plane crash in 1957.

What was Thomas B. Fargo's mother's military service, and whom did she remarry?

His mother, Helen, served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps during World War II. She remarried Captain William Fargo, US Navy, in 1960.

Were Thomas B. Fargo's father and stepfather graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy?

Yes, both Thomas B. Fargo's stepfather, William Fargo, and his biological father, Thomas A. Boulton, were graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy, with William graduating in the Class of 1939 and Thomas A. graduating in the Class of 1943.

What specialized training did Thomas B. Fargo receive in submarine warfare?

Fargo received training in joint, naval, and submarine commands, with specific experience in both attack submarines and ballistic missile submarines.

What were two key submarine commands held by Thomas B. Fargo at sea?

At sea, Thomas B. Fargo served as Executive Officer aboard the submarine USS Plunger (SSN-595) and later as Commanding Officer of the submarine USS Salt Lake City (SSN-716).

How did Thomas B. Fargo's command of the USS Salt Lake City connect with the movie 'The Hunt for Red October'?

While Fargo was the commanding officer of the USS Salt Lake City, he hosted several cast members from the movie 'The Hunt for Red October' aboard the submarine as they conducted research for their roles.

In which major bodies of water did Fargo command naval forces between 1992 and 1993?

From 1992 to 1993, Fargo commanded naval forces, including Submarine Group SEVEN and various Task Forces, operating in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Persian Gulf.

What significant command did Fargo hold during operations related to Iraq?

Fargo commanded the United States FIFTH Fleet and Naval Forces of the Central Command for two years, from July 1996 to July 1998, during Iraqi contingency operations.

What leadership role did Thomas B. Fargo hold from October 1999 to May 2002?

From October 1999 to May 2002, Thomas B. Fargo served as the 29th Commander in Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

What were some of Thomas B. Fargo's notable shore duty assignments?

Thomas B. Fargo served ashore in assignments such as the Bureau of Naval Personnel, with the Commander in Chief of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, and in multiple roles within the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations.

What key positions did Admiral Fargo hold after his promotion to Flag rank in 1994?

After achieving Flag rank in 1994, Admiral Fargo served as Director of Operations (J-3) for U.S. Atlantic Command during the Haiti intervention, Director of the Assessment Division (N-81) for the Chief of Naval Operations, and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Plans, Policy and Operations (N3/N5).

What complication arose regarding Fargo's retirement and the succession at USPACOM?

When Admiral Fargo planned to retire, the U.S. Senate did not confirm the nominated Air Force officer as his successor, as it was customary for a Navy flag officer to hold the position. This led President Bush to extend Fargo's retirement date.

When did Thomas B. Fargo officially retire from the U.S. Navy?

Thomas B. Fargo officially retired from military service in 2005, following the Senate's confirmation of Admiral William J. Fallon as his successor at USPACOM.

What prestigious award for leadership did Fargo receive in 1989?

In 1989, Admiral Fargo was honored with the Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership.

List some of Thomas B. Fargo's major personal military decorations.

Thomas B. Fargo's personal decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal (awarded four times), the Defense Superior Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit (awarded three times).

For what specific reason was Thomas B. Fargo awarded an honorary Officer of the Order of Australia?

In February 2005, Fargo was appointed an honorary Officer of the Order of Australia for his distinguished naval service, particularly for his role in strengthening the Australia-United States alliance while serving as Commander of the United States Pacific Command.

What significant academic position did Thomas B. Fargo assume in 2010?

In 2010, Thomas B. Fargo was appointed as the second holder of the Shalikashvili Chair in National Security Studies at the National Bureau of Asian Research.

When did Thomas B. Fargo take on the role of Chairman at USAA?

Thomas B. Fargo became the 22nd chairman of USAA in 2019.

Whom did Admiral Fargo inspire in the film 'The Hunt for Red October'?

Admiral Thomas B. Fargo served as the inspiration for the character of Commander Bart Mancuso in the film 'The Hunt for Red October'.

Which actor spent time aboard the USS Salt Lake City to prepare for a role based on Fargo?

Actor Scott Glenn spent several days aboard the USS Salt Lake City, researching his role and deciding to base his portrayal of Commander Bart Mancuso on then-Commander Fargo.

What was Scott Glenn's observation about Admiral Fargo's command style?

Scott Glenn described Admiral Fargo as a strong and tough commander, but also noted that he possessed an unexpected degree of relaxation and looseness.

How did Alec Baldwin characterize Admiral Fargo?

Alec Baldwin described Admiral Fargo as incredibly confident, stating that he was 'this guy you would follow into hell'.

What does the designation 'AO' signify in relation to Thomas B. Fargo?

The designation 'AO' signifies that Thomas B. Fargo is an Honorary Officer of the Order of Australia, an honor awarded by the Australian government.

What specific submarine did Thomas B. Fargo command during his career?

Thomas B. Fargo commanded the U.S. Navy submarine USS Salt Lake City (SSN-716).

What was the name of the major U.S. military command responsible for the Pacific region during Fargo's leadership?

The major command responsible for the Pacific region during Fargo's tenure was the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM).

What is the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, and how many did Fargo receive?

The Navy Distinguished Service Medal is a high military decoration awarded for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in a duty of great responsibility. Admiral Fargo received this medal four times.

What is the Legion of Merit, and how many times was Fargo awarded it?

The Legion of Merit is a military award recognizing exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services and achievements. Admiral Fargo was awarded the Legion of Merit three times.

What does the Navy 'E' Ribbon signify?

The Navy 'E' Ribbon, also known as the Battle Effectiveness Award ribbon, is awarded to naval units for demonstrating excellence in combat readiness and operational efficiency.

What is the significance of the National Defense Service Medal with service stars?

The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for service during periods of national defense. The presence of two bronze service stars on Fargo's medal indicates he qualified for this award during two separate qualifying periods.

What does the Vietnam Service Medal recognize, and what does the accompanying star indicate?

The Vietnam Service Medal is awarded for service in the Vietnam War theater. Fargo's medal includes a service star, indicating participation in specific campaigns or operations during that conflict.

What does the Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon signify?

The Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon is awarded to personnel who have completed a minimum period of sea duty, signifying time spent deployed away from homeport. Fargo's ribbon with two service stars indicates multiple such deployments.

What is the honorary Officer of the Order of Australia award?

The Honorary Officer of the Order of Australia is an award presented to foreign nationals for distinguished service to Australia or humanity. Fargo received this in its military division.

What do the multiple award stars (gold and bronze) on military decorations typically represent?

Award stars, whether gold or bronze, are typically attached to military ribbons to denote subsequent awards of the same decoration. Each star signifies an additional instance of qualifying service or achievement.

What was the context of Fargo's command responsibilities in the Persian Gulf?

Fargo commanded naval forces in the Persian Gulf as part of the U.S. FIFTH Fleet's operations during Iraqi contingency operations between July 1996 and July 1998.

Beyond standard naval training, what other areas did Fargo's education cover?

Thomas B. Fargo's training encompassed joint operations, broader naval command, and specialized submarine command.

What role did the Bureau of Naval Personnel play in Fargo's career?

The Bureau of Naval Personnel was one of the shore duty assignments where Thomas B. Fargo served, indicating his involvement in naval personnel administration or policy.

What does the Defense Superior Service Medal recognize?

The Defense Superior Service Medal is awarded by the Secretary of Defense for exceptionally superior service in a position of significant responsibility within the Department of Defense.

What is the Meritorious Service Medal, and what do its stars indicate?

The Meritorious Service Medal is awarded for outstanding non-combat meritorious achievement or service. The two award stars on Fargo's medal indicate he received this award multiple times.

What does the Navy Commendation Medal recognize?

The Navy Commendation Medal is awarded for sustained performance of duty or for specific acts of merit, recognizing commendable service.

What is the Navy Achievement Medal, and what does its star signify?

The Navy Achievement Medal is awarded for meritorious achievement or service that is commendable but less extensive than required for a Commendation Medal. The star on Fargo's medal indicates a subsequent award.

What does the Navy Unit Commendation signify?

The Navy Unit Commendation is awarded to naval units for exceptionally meritorious performance, either in combat or in support of military operations.

What is the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation awarded for?

The Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation recognizes units for exceptionally meritorious or extraordinary performance in accomplishing their mission or supporting military operations.

Thomas B. Fargo Wiki: Admiral Thomas B. Fargo: A Pillar of Naval Strategy and Pacific Command

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Biographical Sketch

Origins and Education

Born in San Diego, California, on June 13, 1948, Admiral Thomas Boulton Fargo's early life was shaped by a naval family tradition. He attended high school in Coronado, California, and Sasebo, Japan, before entering the prestigious United States Naval Academy. He graduated in June 1970, embarking on a distinguished career that would span over three decades.

Family Heritage

Admiral Fargo's lineage is deeply intertwined with the U.S. Navy. His father, Thomas A. Boulton, was a naval officer. His mother, Helen, a Lieutenant in the Navy Nurse Corps during World War II, later married Captain William Fargo, also a Naval Academy graduate. This rich family history undoubtedly influenced his path into naval service.^[2]

Early Career Foundation

Fargo's foundational training encompassed joint, naval, and submarine commands. His early sea assignments included key roles in both attack and ballistic missile submarines. He served as Executive Officer aboard the USS Plunger and later took command of the USS Salt Lake City (SSN-716), a significant command early in his career.

Naval Command and Service

Submarine and Fleet Leadership

Admiral Fargo's command experience extended across various critical naval theaters. He commanded Submarine Group SEVEN and Task Forces 74 and 157 in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf from 1992 to 1993. Subsequently, he led the U.S. Fifth Fleet and Naval Forces of the Central Command for two years, overseeing Iraqi contingency operations.^[1]

Pacific Command Leadership

From October 1999 to May 2002, Admiral Fargo served as the 29th Commander in Chief of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. His most prominent role was as Commander of the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) from May 2, 2002, to February 26, 2005, making him the twentieth officer to hold this vital strategic position.^[1]

Strategic Roles Ashore

Beyond sea commands, Fargo held significant shore assignments. After his promotion to Flag rank in 1994, he served as Director of Operations (J-3) for the U.S. Atlantic Command during the Haiti intervention. He also held key positions within the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, including Director of Assessment Division (N-81) and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Plans, Policy, and Operations (N3/N5).

Distinguished Service and Accolades

Major Decorations

Admiral Fargo's career was marked by numerous prestigious awards, reflecting his exceptional service and leadership. These include multiple instances of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal and the Legion of Merit, underscoring his significant contributions to national security.

Admiral Fargo's decorations include:

Navy Distinguished Service Medal (4 awards) with 3 gold award stars
Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit (3 awards) with 2 award stars
Meritorious Service Medal with 2 award stars
Navy Commendation Medal
Navy Achievement Medal with award star
Joint Meritorious Unit Award
Navy Unit Commendation
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
Navy "E" Ribbon
Navy Expeditionary Medal
National Defense Service Medal with 2 bronze service stars
Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
Vietnam Service Medal with service star
Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with two service stars
Navy & Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon
Honorary Officer of the Order of Australia (Military Division)^[3]

He was also a recipient of the Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership in 1989.

Enduring Influence and Post-Naval Career

Inspiration for "The Hunt for Red October"

Admiral Fargo's command of the USS Salt Lake City provided the real-world backdrop for the film The Hunt for Red October. Actor Scott Glenn spent time aboard the submarine researching his role as Commander Bart Mancuso, ultimately basing his portrayal on Fargo's confident and authoritative demeanor. Colleagues described Fargo as a commander you would "follow into hell."^[7]

Contributions to National Security Studies

Following his retirement from active duty, Admiral Fargo continued to contribute to strategic thinking. In 2010, he was appointed to the Shalikashvili Chair in National Security Studies at the National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR), authoring and contributing to significant publications on U.S. defense strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.^[4]

Leadership in Financial Services

Admiral Fargo's leadership extended into the civilian sector. In 2019, he assumed the role of the 22nd chairman of USAA, a prominent financial services group serving military members and their families, demonstrating his continued commitment to service beyond his naval career.^[5]

Authority and Recognition

Admiral Fargo's career and contributions are recognized across various authoritative databases, including ISNI, VIAF, FAST, and the U.S. Library of Congress, reflecting his significant impact on naval history and national security. He was also appointed an honorary Officer of the Order of Australia.^[3]

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Admiral Thomas B. Fargo

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Biographical Sketch 👤

📍 Origins and Education

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Heritage

⭐ Early Career Foundation

Naval Command and Service ⚓

🚢 Submarine and Fleet Leadership

🌏 Pacific Command Leadership

🏛️ Strategic Roles Ashore

Distinguished Service and Accolades 🎖️

🏆 Major Decorations

Enduring Influence and Post-Naval Career 🌟

🎬 Inspiration for "The Hunt for Red October"

📚 Contributions to National Security Studies

💼 Leadership in Financial Services

🔗 Authority and Recognition

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Biographical Sketch

Origins and Education

Family Heritage

Early Career Foundation

Naval Command and Service

Submarine and Fleet Leadership

Pacific Command Leadership

Strategic Roles Ashore

Distinguished Service and Accolades

Major Decorations

Enduring Influence and Post-Naval Career

Inspiration for "The Hunt for Red October"

Contributions to National Security Studies

Leadership in Financial Services

Authority and Recognition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice