William F. Bringle

Admiral William Floyd Bringle, USN, (April 23, 1913 – March 19, 1999) was the first commanding officer of USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63). During the Vietnam War, he was Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet in 1967-70 as a Vice Admiral, and later, as a four star admiral, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe in 1971-73.

Early life and career

Admiral William F. Bringle was born in Covington, Tennessee, on April 23, 1913, son of Mrs. Lota Smith Bringle and William F. Bringle of Covington, Tennessee. He died on March 19, 1999 at Rancho Santa Fe, California

He attended the Byars-Hall High School and Columbia Military Academy before his appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Graduating in June 1937, he was commissioned an ensign, and through subsequent advancement attained the rank of captain, July 1, 1955.

During his career, Captain Bringle served in numerous sea and shore assignments. His first was aboard the aircraft Saratoga in the gunnery, communications and engineering departments as a junior officer until 1940.