Richard L. Armitage, 79, Notable State Department Official, Passes Away

Richard L. Armitage, former Deputy Secretary of State, passed away at 79 from a pulmonary embolism. He served during a significant period in American history, including the Iraq War, and was involved in the Valerie Plame controversy. A Naval Academy graduate and Vietnam veteran, he held senior roles under three Republican presidents and remained active in political discourse until his death.

Richard L. Armitage, aged 79, has passed away due to a pulmonary embolism, as announced by Armitage International, the consulting firm he founded in Arlington, Virginia. Armitage served as the Deputy Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005 during a notably turbulent period, encompassing the 9/11 attacks and the initiation of military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

A graduate of the Naval Academy and a veteran of the Vietnam War, Mr. Armitage held significant foreign policy and defense positions under three Republican administrations. He was prominently featured in a group known as “the Vulcans,” which provided strategic advice to President George W. Bush.

Armitage became widely known for his involvement in the 2003 Valerie Plame controversy, where he was identified as the source who disclosed the identity of the CIA operative. The leak ignited a major political scandal, linking it to the administration’s justification for the Iraq War. Mr. Armitage later stated that his disclosure was unintentional and expressed deep regret for the incident.

Mr. Armitage’s governmental career began during the Reagan administration. Following 9/11, he was instrumental in shaping U.S. foreign policy and was involved in discussions with Pakistani leaders regarding support for American military action against terrorism.

After his resignation from the State Department in 2005, he established Armitage International. He later expressed his opposition to waterboarding, which was sanctioned during the Bush administration, and noted that he might have resigned had he known about those practices at the time.

Born on April 26, 1945, in Wellesley, Massachusetts, Armitage grew up in Atlanta before attending the Naval Academy. His distinguished military service was marked by significant achievements such as leading a large flotilla of Vietnamese evacuees in 1975. After an extensive career that included various roles in defense and diplomacy, he remained active in political discourse, endorsing candidates from both parties in recent elections.

Richard L. Armitage leaves behind his wife, Laura, eight children, and many grandchildren, having also served as a foster parent throughout his life.

In conclusion, Richard L. Armitage had a notable career in U.S. foreign policy, marked by both significant achievements and controversies. His passing highlights the complexities of his legacy, from his role in the Bush administration to his reflections on national security practices. He is remembered for his contributions to American foreign policy and his dedication to public service.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com