AFA Remembers Dr. James Schlesinger

AFA is saddened to hear of the passing of James Schlesinger, former Secretary of Defense, from 1973 to 1975 under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. Schlesinger died last week at the age of 85.

Schlesinger dedicated himself and his work to strengthening this nation's security. He didn't just do this in his role as the Secretary of Defense, but he also served as the director of Central Intelligence Agency and as the first Secretary of Energy, under President Jimmy Carter. He also contributed to providing assistance to the Air Force as it refocused attention on its nuclear mission, organization, and culture. For all of this, AFA was honored to be able to recognize him with the 2009 AFA Lifetime Achievement Award.

"Dr. Schlesinger was a dedicated public servant, leaving this nation incredibly grateful for his life's work," said AFA President Craig McKinley. "His contributions have strongly influenced and shaped the successful nuclear deterrence program we have today, providing a heightened level of security to both this country and its friends and allies. For this, he and his efforts will never be forgotten."

Photo courtesy of DOD