The Army's New Physical Fitness Test
Michael S. McGurk enlisted in 1979 in the Infantry as member of the Army National Guard, this was the start of over 30 years of uniformed service to the nation. Michael attended and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, and in 1985 he was commissioned Infantry. 2nd Lieutenant McGurk attended the Infantry Officers Basic Course at Fort Benning, Airborne School, Pathfinder School, and U.S. Army Ranger School and other training. His first duty assignment was 25thInfantry, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii
In over 26 years as an officer Michael served as a platoon leader, company commander, battalion adjutant, battalion executive officer, Dirtoer of Operations, Instructor and military attaché (in Paris). During the summer of 2004, LTC McGurk deployed to Baghdad, Iraq where he was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service, returning from combat in January 2005.
Colonel McGurk retired from active military service in 2011 to pursue a civilian career with the Department of Defense. Mr. McGurk currently works for the Department of the Army as a the Director of Research for the US Army Center for Initial Military Training at TRADOC, Fort Eustis Virginia. In his current role he is the lead for the US Army for the development and fielding of the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). He directs the test implementation and standards for the entire Active Army, Army National Guard and Army Reserve, across the globe.
He is married to the former Miss Angela Szebel, of Windsor, Canada. The happy couple currently resides in Williamsburg, Virginia. He enjoys traveling, history, reading and public speaking.