U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps

CDR Turner's first assignment after completing Naval Justice School was at Naval Legal Service Office Southwest, where she served as the legal assistance department head and then senior trial counsel. She ended her 20 years of military service at the Washington Navy Yard where she served as director of Reserve and Retired Personnel Programs (Code 62) at the Office of the Judge Advocate General.

CDR Turner served as a judge advocate from 1993 to 2006, and during that time she witnessed the evolution of the role of women in the Navy and in the Navy JAG Corps. "I left a Navy that was more integrated and had greater opportunities for female advancement," said CDR Turner

As for alumni advice, CDR Turner recommends, "To those who have decided to make the JAG Corps their career, take advantage of all the JAG Corps has to offer. Try to enjoy every moment of your time. It truly is the ride of a lifetime."

For judge advocates who have not yet decided on whether they will make a full career in the JAG Corps, CDR Turner advises, "Take advantage of the mentoring and camaraderie the JAG Corps offers."

In 1972, RDML Hardy earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas, his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas Law School in 1980 and his Master of Laws degree from the University of Virginia Law School in 1986.

While his career gravitated toward international and operational law positions, he was fortunate to experience a rich variety of jobs. "Each was sufficiently distinct so as to present new challenges and fresh perspectives. I thoroughly enjoyed my work as a trial counsel, learning the inter-agency process and international negotiations while in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and at Naval Forces Europe, and command of a Naval Legal Service Office and OJAG Civil Law division," said RDML Hardy.

RDML Hardy felt that his time on the E-Ring was challenging and the equivalent of graduate school in learning how government really works. "I have found that the bumps and bruises of the E-Ring were superb preparation for my current position as a senior executive in a civilian agency," said RDML Hardy.

RDML Hardy worked for many incredible senior line commanders and tried to emulate their strengths in both his personal and professional life. "I have always thought that every JAG should serve at sea at some point in their career. Otherwise, I don't believe you can really understand the Navy," said RDML Hardy

"As a staff judge advocate you'll want to satisfy the requests of your commander, yet you must say no when it is appropriate. In those instances, always seek advice of more senior judge advocates, always. If no is the correct answer, then stay the course even if your Chief of Staff gets upset with you. In the end, you will earn true respect and trust from your commander."

"The FBI is a great home for former JAGs, because it is mission-oriented just like the Navy. Like the Navy, the career is not about making money or about 'you;' it is about serving a greater and very rewarding cause," said CAPT Larson.

CAPT Larson retired in October 1995 after serving more than 29 years in the U.S. Navy. CAPT Larson has been an attorney giving legal advice on criminal procedures, investigative jurisdiction, and the use of investigative techniques. He has also been in leadership positions as the director of a unit that provides criminal law advice, and one which provides advice on protection of privacy and civil liberties.

CAPT Larson received his undergraduate degree from the University of Washington in 1965, his Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University in 1975 and his Master of Laws degree from George Washington University in 1983.

Looking back over his naval career, CAPT Larson found that his most professionally satisfying billets were as the Commanding Officer of Naval Legal Service Office Subic Bay, Philippines (1990-92) and as the Chief Judge of the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals (1992-95).

For current judge advocates, CAPT Larson offers some advice. "Don't spend too much time worrying about career progression or lining up the right billets for promotion. While every judge advocate and legalman should seek billets that will make him/her well rounded, the primary goal should be to seek assignments that are professionally and personally satisfying for you. Make the most of each one without undue concern over what comes next. I didn't always get what I wanted or asked for - but each one turned out to be the right job for me," said CAPT Larson.

"Remember each day that it is an honor to serve your country and your shipmates; most lawyers don't get that opportunity. You should consider yourself blessed to be in such good company, regardless of whether it is for one tour or a career," said CAPT Larson.

LNCM Hill joined the Navy in July 1976. He had grown up in northwestern Wisconsin and was not immediately interested in continuing his education. “I thought the Navy would give me a chance to travel,” said Hill.

From 1976 to 1987, Hill worked as a Navy Postal Clerk. In June of 1987, Hill decided to become a legalman because he felt the legal community offered interesting challenges and unique opportunities.

While a legalman, Hill earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Columbia College and a paralegal certificate from St. Mary’s College. of the many highlights from his Navy career he remembers most fondly his time aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). Hill found that his assignment aboard USS Abraham Lincoln was “the most demanding and was the type of duty you could only properly appreciate when looking back on it.”

To the current legal community, Hill offers this advice, “Enjoy it while you’re there. It all goes by way too fast. Work hard, and take care of your family and shipmates.”