Major General Ralph G. Wooten was born in LaGrange, North Carolina. He graduated from North Carolina Central University in 1966 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology.

After receiving his direct commission from Infantry Officer Candidate School, Major General Wooten’s first assignment was Platoon Leader and Battalion Adjutant, for the 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Republic of Vietnam. Among his assignments were Branch Chief and Deputy Director, Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Training Department, Commander 2nd Chemical Battalion and Commander, U.S. Army Environmental Center. He concluded his 32 year career as the 21st Chief of Chemical, Commanding General U.S. Army Chemical and Police Centers at Fort McClellan, Alabama and Commandant, U.S. Army Chemical School.

Major General Wooten’s Chemical Vision 2010 transformed the Chemical Corps and the ability of Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear staffs and units to protect the Joint Force and preserve combat power. Furthermore, he successfully led the relocation of the Chemical and Military Police Schools to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and the subsequent integration of these schools with the Engineer School to form the U.S. Army Maneuver Support Center.

Major General Wooten’s awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters.