William M. Keys

William M. Keys
Born(1937-03-29)March 29, 1937
DiedJanuary 24, 2026(2026-01-24) (aged 88)
AllegianceUnited States of America
Branch United States Marine Corps
Service years1960–1994
Rank Lieutenant general
Service number0-79544
CommandsII Marine Expeditionary Force
2nd Marine Division
6th Marine Regiment
3rd Battalion, 5th Marines
ConflictsOperation Desert Storm
Vietnam War
AwardsNavy Cross
Legion of Merit
Silver Star Medal

William Morgan Keys (March 29, 1937 – January 24, 2026) was a United States Marine lieutenant general. Keys was a combat veteran — receiving the Navy Cross for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War, as well as the Silver Star. Keys served as Commander, Marine Corps Forces Atlantic before retirement in 1994.

After his retirement, Keys was hired by Colt's Manufacturing Company where he served as president and CEO from 1999-2012. Keys is widely regarded as being responsible for saving Colt from financial ruin in the late 1990's.