Gen. Gary L. North, USAF (Ret) retired from the Air Force in October 2012, culminating his career as commander, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. He is a 1976 graduate of East Carolina University, N.C., and holds a master's degree from Golden Gate University, Calif. A command pilot, he flew over 4,700 hours in the F-4, F-16, and F-15, including 83 combat missions. During his career, he commanded at the squadron through the major command levels.

He is currently vice president for customer requirements for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., where he is responsible for engagement and activities across the aeronautics portfolio. He resides in Aledo, Texas.