After graduating Dunbar High School as class valedictorian, Admiral Larry Chambers became the second African American graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in 1952 and the first to reach flag rank.
A Naval Aviator, he flew a variety of fixed wing aircraft during his career including the AF Guardian, A-1 Sky Raider, A-4 Skyhawk, and A-7B Corsair II.
He established VA-67 (later VA-15) with the new A-7B and served as its first Commanding Officer, flying combat missions over Vietnam from 1968 to 1971 from USS Ranger and Oriskany.
Promoted to Captain, he commanded USS White Plains (AFS-4). In January 1975, he assumed command of USS Midway (CV-41), becoming the first African American to command an aircraft carrier.
Promoted to Rear Admiral, he served as Commander, CSG-3 and interim Commander, CSG-4, retiring in 1984 as Vice Commander, Naval Air Systems Command.
Rear Admiral (Ret) Lawrence C. Chambers
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May 29, 2025
The Larry Chambers Story
Learn more about the critical role RADM Lawrence C. Chambers played during Operation Frequent Wind in rescuing a South Vietnamese pilot and his family during the evacuation of Saigon.
May 29, 2025
RADM Lawrence C. Chambers Distinguished Graduate Award
Learn more about RADM Lawrence C. Chambers and his inspiring career.
