He also holds a Master of Science degree in Foreign Affairs from George Washington University. In addition, General Yates attended the Department Of Defense Joint Warfighting course and the Harvard program for National and International Securities Studies.
He is a native of Hattiesburg, Mississippi and graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi. Army Distinguished Service Medal
Defense Superior Service Medal
Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster
Distinguished Flying Cross
Bronze Star
Purple Heart
Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster
Air Medal
Army Commendation Meda
During his career, he held a variety of important command and staff positions to include Deputy Commanding General V (United States) Corps, United States Army Europe. Commanding General United States. Army Berlin and the Berlin Brigade. Assistant Division Commander (Maneuver) 3d Armored Division and the Commander of the Giessen Military Community, United States Army Europe. Commander Berlin Brigade, United States Army Europe. Deputy Director National Military Command Center J-3 and Chief of Conventional Plans Division J-7, the Joint Staff, Washington, District of Columbia His military decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, numerous Air Medals, Army Commendation Medal, and the Purple Heart.
