William H. McRaven is a retired U.S. Navy four-star admiral and former Navy SEAL renowned for his distinguished military career and leadership acumen. Born in 1955, McRaven graduated from the University of Texas at Austin before embarking on a 37-year career in the Navy.
McRaven is best known for his command during Operation Neptune Spear, the 2011 raid that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. His strategic planning and precise execution underscored his exceptional leadership abilities under immense pressure. He served as the commander of the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) from 2011 to 2014, overseeing all special operations forces across the Department of Defense.
Beyond his operational achievements, McRaven is a respected voice on leadership and national security. He is the author of several books, including the bestseller “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World,” which distills leadership lessons from his Navy SEAL training. McRaven has received numerous military awards and decorations, solidifying his legacy as one of the most respected leaders in modern military history. Since retiring from the Navy, McRaven has held academic positions, including Chancellor of the University of Texas System, continuing to influence future generations.