Admiral Linda Lee Fagan, born on July 1, 1963, in Columbus, Ohio, has had a distinguished career in the United States Coast Guard.

She graduated from the United States Coast Guard Academy in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science.

Highlights

• John J. Fagan, Linda Fagan’s late husband, graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 1985 and initially served in the Coast Guard.
• Their daughter, Lieutenant Aileen Fagan, graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 2016 and continues her family’s legacy through dedicated military service.
• John’s unwavering support and shared military experience were crucial to Fagan’s historic rise as the first female Coast Guard Commandant.

Furthering her education, she earned a Master of Marine Affairs from the University of Washington in 2000.

She also has a Master of Science in National Security Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces at the National Defense University in 2008.

Moreover, she made history by becoming the 27th Commandant of the Coast Guard, marking the first time a woman led a U.S. military service branch.

However, her tenure as Commandant concluded in January 2025. So, follow along and learn more about Linda Fagan’s husband and family. 

Linda Fagan is the widower of her late husband, John Fagan

Linda Fagan’s husband, John J. Fagan, was a fellow 1985 United States Coast Guard Academy graduate.

After graduation, John served in the Coast Guard, sharing a parallel path with Linda in their early careers.

“So, gather up your jackets, move it to the exits

I hope you have found a friend

Closing time,

Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end”
—-

Trump Admin evicts former Coast Guard leader Linda Fagan from her house w/ 3 hours notice

…removed from post for her… https://t.co/RYi1snhfG0 pic.twitter.com/3zRDhhv53b

— Prodigal (@ProdigalThe3rd) February 6, 2025

 

After his service, John transitioned to a civilian role, though public records provide few specific details about his subsequent career.

Throughout their marriage, John’s understanding of the demands of military life and his unwavering support were instrumental in Linda’s ascent to becoming the first female Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Their shared experiences at the Academy and in-service fostered mutual respect and partnership.

John’s steadfast encouragement and belief in Linda’s capabilities were pivotal as she navigated the challenges of her groundbreaking career.

Sadly, John has passed away, and further details regarding his personal information and the date of his passing are not revealed to the public.

Nonetheless, his legacy is marked by his dedication to his family and country, leaving an indelible impact on those who knew him.

John and Linda have a daughter, Aileen, who also serves the nation

John and Linda’s daughter, Lieutenant Aileen Fagan, followed in her mother’s footsteps by serving in the United States Coast Guard.

Aileen graduated from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in 2016, embarking on her journey of service and leadership within the maritime force.

President Trump fires Admiral Linda Lee Fagan, first woman to lead a military branch, as Coast Guard Commandant.

Follow: @AFpost pic.twitter.com/zMm5HmyY1v

— AF Post (@AFpost) January 21, 2025

 

She has been stationed at various units throughout her career, contributing to the Coast Guard’s mission of safeguarding the nation’s waters.

Her assignments have provided her diverse experiences, from search and rescue operations to maritime law enforcement.

Aileen’s commitment to duty and excellence reflects the values instilled in her by her family. She continues to uphold the legacy of service exemplified by her mother.

Her career progression within the Coast Guard inspires many and highlights her perseverance in achieving professional success.

Additional Information

• Linda Fagan is the daughter of Jon Harley Keene and Loann Carol (Morris) Keene.
• In April 2022, Fagan was nominated to succeed Karl L. Schultz as commandant of the Coast Guard, making her the first woman in American history to lead a military service.
• Throughout her service, Fagan held several key positions, including Commander of the Coast Guard Pacific Area, Deputy for Operations, Policy, and Capabilities, and Commander of both the First Coast Guard District and Coast Guard Sector New York.