William O. Wooldridge

Who was William O. Wooldridge?

William O. Wooldridge a much decorated career enlisted man in the United States Army, was the first Sergeant Major of the Army.

Wooldridge served on active duty from 1940 to 1972. His military career spanned two wars and 14 campaigns, during which he was twice decorated for gallantry in action. He was sworn in as the first Sergeant Major of the Army on July 11, 1966 by Chief of Staff of the Army, General Harold K. Johnson. Wooldridge’s appointment was recorded in the Congressional Record of the 89th Congress Vol. 112, No. 110.