Tommy Franks

Date of Birth: June 17, 1945

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Tommy Ray Franks is a retired General in the United States Army, best known for his role in leading the coalition forces during the early stages of the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan. Born in Wynnewood, Oklahoma, he grew up in Midland, Texas, where he attended Robert E. Lee High School. He later attended the University of Texas at Austin but left to join the U.S. Army in 1965. He completed his degree at the University of Texas at Arlington while serving in the military. Franks rose through the military ranks, serving in various capacities during the Vietnam War, and later in senior positions at the Pentagon. He was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) in 2000, a position he held until his retirement in 2003. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing U.S. military operations in a 25-country region, including the Middle East, East Africa, and Central Asia. During his tenure at CENTCOM, Franks was instrumental in planning and executing Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His leadership and strategic planning were pivotal in the swift toppling of the Taliban regime and the early success of the Iraq invasion. After retiring, Franks published his memoir, “American Soldier,” which provides an insider’s view of military operations and political decisions during his service. He has since been involved in various philanthropic activities and has served on corporate boards.