Admiral Samuel J. Locklear III, USN (Ret.), a member of the United States Naval Academy’s Class of 1977, well personifies the qualities of leadership, dedication, and service that define a USNA Distinguished Graduate. From his time at the Academy to his long and remarkable career in the Navy, ADM Locklear's contributions have had a lasting impact on national security and international military relations. Today, he remains an influential figure, continuing to serve his country and the global community.
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At the Naval Academy
Born in Macon, Georgia, ADM Locklear entered the USNA in 1973. His time at the Academy was marked by academic rigor, physical endurance, and a commitment to service. As a midshipman, Locklear excelled academically, serving with distinction as the 1977 honor set Brigade commander.
Beginning an International Career
Upon his Naval Academy graduation in 1977, ADM Locklear embarked on a career that spanned nearly four decades. He began as a surface warfare officer (SWO), serving aboard USS William V. Pratt (DDG 44), USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Callaghan (DDG 994), and USS Truxtun (CG 35), progressing to command of USS Leftwich (DD 984).
This led to a career wherein he held increasingly key leadership positions and made significant contributions to U.S. and global security. One of his most notable roles was as commander of the U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM), the U.S.’s oldest and largest geographic unified combatant command, where he oversaw military operations across more than half of the world’s surface area.
In this capacity, ADM Locklear played a pivotal role in managing U.S. defense strategies in the Asia-Pacific region during a time of increasing geopolitical tensions, successfully navigating the rising threats of cybercrime. He is credited with expertly managing U.S. military relationships with our five Pacific treaty allies, various key security partners, and emerging multilateral security forums, helping to build a relationship with China and India.
Prior to his command at PACOM, ADM Locklear served in a number of capacities that proved his versatility and strategic acumen. He was the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and U.S. Naval Forces Africa, where he managed naval operations across Europe and Africa, successfully fostering key large-scale partnerships to safeguard U.S. interests abroad and stop the spread of terrorism in the region during Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).
As commander of NATO Allied Joint Forces Command in 2010, he also managed NATO’s ongoing stability operations in Kosovo, as well as NATO’s training missions in Iraq. He was a primary architect of NATO’s 21st century command structure.
In 2011, while in command of the Multinational Task Force Odyssey Dawn for Operation Unified Protector in Libya, he engineered and spearheaded the task force to enforce a United Nations mandate protecting Libyan citizens. He then continued to serve by commanding the follow-on NATO Operation Unified Protector (OUP) until the final collapse of the Gaddafi regime.
Back in the U.S.
His U.S. ashore commitments included service as the director of the Navy staff and commander of the U.S. Third Fleet. He was executive assistant to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations and also served as the 78th Commandant of Midshipmen at the USNA. His ability to lead in both peacetime and combat operations underscored his reputation as a highly capable and adaptable naval officer. Throughout his career, he emphasized the importance of international partnerships and cooperation, recognizing the need for a collaborative approach to addressing global security challenges.
A Focus on Education
Admiral Locklear also placed great value on higher education to inform his work and relationship building. In 1992, Admiral Locklear graduated from the National Defense University’s Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He also earned a master’s degree in Public Administration from the George Washington University.
Important Awards and Recognition
For his distinguished career, Admiral Locklear has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. His decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal with gold star, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with four gold stars, and Bronze Star Medal, among other individual, campaign, and unit decorations.
These awards reflect his exceptional service, leadership, and contributions to the U.S. Navy and national security. In 2013, Admiral Locklear was ranked eleventh out of the 100 most influential people in global defense issues by Defense News. He has served as a USNA Athletic & Scholarship Programs Trustee and as the chair of the USNA Alumni Association Board of Trustees. He was honored as a USNA Distinguished Graduate in 2024.
Related: USNA Distinguished Graduate Highlight: John S. McCain III
Continuing to Serve
Since retiring from active duty in 2015, ADM Locklear has continued to serve in various capacities, leveraging his extensive experience and leadership skills. He is currently involved in several advisory and board roles, where he provides strategic insights on defense, security, and international relations. He is a member of the Center for Climate and Security’s Advisory Board.
His post-military career reflects his commitment to service and his desire to continue contributing to the security and stability of the United States and its allies. ADM Locklear is also a sought-after speaker and commentator on issues related to defense strategy, military operations, and international security.
ADM Samuel J. Locklear III’s legacy as a distinguished naval officer, relationship builder, and leader is a source of pride for the United States Naval Academy and the nation. His career, marked by significant accomplishments and unwavering dedication, serves as an inspiration to current and future generations of naval officers. As he continues to influence the field of defense and international relations, ADM Locklear’s contributions to global security and his commitment to service remain as strong as ever.
Thank You to Our USNA Distinguished Graduates!
We are grateful to Admiral Locklear and his fellow USNA graduates, who inspire and motivate the midshipmen here every day. You can support the midshipmen who hope to follow in their footsteps. When you visit the Yard, take a USNA tour, dine in our restaurants, or shop at the USNA Gift Shop or on Navyonline.com, you’re giving back to the midshipmen who give their all for our country. Profits fund extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more, to foster greater teamwork and camaraderie. Come and visit the place where these USNA Distinguished Graduates first entered in service to their country, and feel their presence reverberate.
