Roland Guilbault, American admiral (b. 1934)

Roland George "Gil" Guilbault, born on November 27, 1934, embarked on a distinguished life marked by profound service to his nation and subsequent leadership in the private sector. His journey culminated on April 6, 2012. A highly accomplished individual, Rear Admiral Guilbault left an indelible mark through his extensive career in the United States Navy, where he served for 34 years, and later through executive roles in prominent technology companies. His academic foundation included degrees from both George Washington University, a prestigious institution in the nation's capital, and the Université de Montréal, showcasing a breadth of intellectual pursuits that likely informed his strategic thinking throughout his career.

A Commander of Innovation: The USS Ticonderoga

Perhaps one of the most notable chapters in Rear Admiral Guilbault’s naval career was his command of the USS Ticonderoga (CG-47). This assignment was particularly significant as the Ticonderoga holds the distinction of being the very first Aegis cruiser. Commissioned in 1983, the USS Ticonderoga introduced the revolutionary Aegis Combat System to the fleet, a sophisticated, integrated naval weapons system developed by the U.S. Navy. The Aegis system provided unprecedented capabilities for detecting, tracking, and engaging multiple air and surface threats simultaneously, dramatically enhancing naval air defense and making the Ticonderoga class cruisers a cornerstone of modern naval warfare. Commanding such a cutting-edge vessel at the forefront of technological advancement underscored Guilbault's leadership and technical acumen.

Strategic Leadership in the Fleet

His leadership continued to shine in subsequent roles, demonstrating his capacity for strategic command. In 1987, Rear Admiral Guilbault served as a battle force commander aboard the formidable USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), one of the Navy's Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. As a battle force commander, he was responsible for leading and coordinating a large formation of naval ships, typically centered around an aircraft carrier and its air wing, during complex operations. This crucial role involves orchestrating the movements, defenses, and offensive capabilities of an entire carrier strike group, a testament to his tactical brilliance and operational expertise within the U.S. Navy’s most powerful formations. His dedication to service spanned over three decades, culminating in his retirement as a Rear Admiral in 1994, a testament to a career defined by leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment.

Transition to the Private Sector

Following his distinguished service in the Navy, Rear Admiral Guilbault transitioned his considerable leadership skills and strategic insights to the corporate world. He embarked on a second career, holding executive positions with two prominent technology companies: Lucent Technologies and Digital Equipment Corporation. At Lucent Technologies, a spin-off of AT&T's Western Electric, he contributed to a global leader in telecommunications equipment. Similarly, his work at Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), a pioneer in the computer industry known for its minicomputers and network systems, allowed him to apply his extensive experience in complex systems and large-scale operations to drive innovation and growth in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. His post-naval career illustrated his versatility and continued impact beyond the uniform.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rear Admiral Roland George "Gil" Guilbault

What were Roland George "Gil" Guilbault's birth and death dates?

Roland George "Gil" Guilbault was born on November 27, 1934, and passed away on April 6, 2012.

What was the significance of his command of the USS Ticonderoga?

Rear Admiral Guilbault commanded the USS Ticonderoga (CG-47), which was the first Aegis cruiser. This ship introduced the highly advanced Aegis Combat System to the U.S. Navy fleet, revolutionizing naval air defense capabilities.

What is the Aegis Combat System?

The Aegis Combat System is an advanced, integrated naval weapons system developed by the U.S. Navy. It is renowned for its ability to rapidly detect, track, and guide weapons to destroy multiple enemy targets simultaneously, significantly enhancing a ship's defense and offensive capabilities.

What role did he hold aboard the USS Eisenhower?

In 1987, Rear Admiral Guilbault served as a battle force commander aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). In this critical role, he was responsible for commanding and coordinating a large formation of naval ships, typically an entire carrier strike group, during complex operational deployments.

How long did Roland Guilbault serve in the U.S. Navy?

He dedicated 34 years of his life to service in the U.S. Navy, retiring as a Rear Admiral in 1994.

What did he do after retiring from the Navy?

After his distinguished naval career, Rear Admiral Guilbault applied his leadership and strategic expertise in the private sector, holding executive positions with prominent technology companies, specifically Lucent Technologies and Digital Equipment Corporation.

Where did Roland Guilbault pursue his higher education?

He obtained degrees from two distinguished institutions: George Washington University and the Université de Montréal.