Rear Admiral James ‘Phil’ Wisecup became the 52nd president of the U.S. Naval War College on Nov. 6, 2008. He most recently served as commander, Carrier Strike Group 7 (Ronald Reagan Strike Group), returning from deployment in October 2008.
A 1977 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Wisecup earned his master’s degree in international relations from the University of Southern California, graduated from the Naval War College in 1998, and also earned a degree from the University of Strasbourg, France, as an Olmsted Scholar, in 1982.
At sea, he served as executive officer of USS Valley Forge (CG 50) during Operation Desert Storm. As commanding officer, USS Callaghan (DDG 994), he was awarded the Vice Admiral James Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership. He served as commander, Destroyer Squadron 21 during Operation Enduring Freedom after 9/11.
Ashore, Wisecup was assigned to NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, served as force planner and ship scheduler for Commander, U.S. Naval Surface Forces, Pacific, and served as action officer for Navy Headquarters Plans/Policy Staff. He served as a fellow on the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group; director, White House Situation Room and commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea.
Wisecup's awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and various unit, service and campaign awards.