Lt. Gen. Michael Linnington is stepping down as CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project

Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Michael Linnington will be retiring as CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project in March, a position he has held since 2016. UCLA Health’s Operation Mend(Link opens in new window) has been a partner of the Wounded Warrior Project since 2015, when it became a founding member of the Warrior Care Network.

Gen. Linnington joined the Wounded Warrior Project after retiring from active-duty military service. During his 35-year career in the U.S. Army, he served in a variety of command and staff positions, including Brigade Command of the 3rd Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division (in Iraq and Afghanistan); Commanding General, Military District of Washington/Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region; and Military Deputy for the Under Secretary of Personnel and Readiness.

After leaving active duty, he served as the first permanent director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

The Wounded Warrior Project was founded 20 years ago(Link is external) (Link opens in new window) to serve post-9/11 veterans and their families.

Under Gen. Linnington's leadership, the Wounded Warrior Project significantly expanded its programs and services, helped pass historic legislation benefiting veterans and their families, including the Honoring Our PACT Act(Link is external) (Link opens in new window), and made extensive progress executing its mission of honoring and empowering post-9/11 wounded veterans and families. 

"It has been a privilege and an incredible honor to serve those who have given so much to our country," said Gen. Linnington. "I am deeply grateful to my Wounded Warrior Project teammates, public and private partners, and especially the American people who have generously supported our mission for two decades. As I begin this next chapter, I look forward to spending more time with my family and exploring activities we have put off for more than 40 years."

Kathleen Widmer, chair of the Wounded Warrior Project Board of Directors, said, "Mike has made a lasting impact on our country, its veterans and Wounded Warrior Project. His steadfast commitment to warriors, our core values, and fulfilling our donors’ intent is unwavering. We are grateful for his dedication and leadership." 

Operation Mend Executive Director Jo Sornborger, PsyD, presents Gen. Michael Linnington with an Honor Bear.

In January, Operation Mend presented Gen. Linnington with an Honor Bear in appreciation for his service. The bear is designed in the same style as the Army uniform Gen. Linnington wore during the conflict in Iraq. Honor Bears are made out of donated uniforms.

The Board of Directors has been conducting a national search for Gen. Linnington's successor.