January 24, 2012
LEAVENWORTH--Armed Forces Insurance (AFI) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chairman: Lieutenant General Garry L. Parks (CNW 1987) (U.S. Marine Corps, Ret.). Parks replaces former Chairman and longtime AFI Senior Executive Col. Thomas Dials (U.S. Army, Ret.), who retired on December 31, 2011.
Parks’ military career included roles as Deputy Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Commanding General of the Marine Corps Recruiting Command, Deputy Director, J-5 on the Joint Staff at The Pentagon, and Commanding General Marine Corps Recruit Depot/Western Recruiting Region. His decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device, among others.
“Garry has more than 40 years of leadership experience, both with the U.S. government and in the private sector. He brings considerable alliance-building skills and a proven track record in driving organizational growth within demanding, high-pressure environments,” said Kurt Seelbach, President and Chief Executive Officer, AFI. “Additionally, his distinguished military background gives him a thorough understanding of the unique needs of our members. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”
His business career has included several roles as a Senior Executive, including six years as President and CEO of South Carolina Credit Union League and Affiliates in Irmo, S.C. Prior to joining AFI, Parks served as CEO of Efficient Energy Advisors LLC in Beaufort, S.C. Parks has served on numerous boards as a director or advisor, including past Director on the board of Navy Federal Credit Union, chairmanship of the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee and subsequently Military Enhancement Committee, past Co-Chair of a Department of Defense Task Force, and past Trustee of the South Carolina Department of Education Financial Literacy Council. Currently he also serves on the Board of Advisors of Suntiva.
Parks has a bachelor’s degree in education from The Citadel, a master’s degree in education from Pepperdine University and a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.