Donald H. Rumsfeld, a prominent figure in American politics and defense, passed away at the age of 88. His career was marked by a unique distinction: serving as the Secretary of Defense not once, but twice. This remarkable feat also made him both the youngest and the oldest individual to hold this crucial position, advising the President on vital defense matters.
Rumsfeld first took office as the 13th Secretary of Defense under President Gerald R. Ford in 1975, at the age of 43, making him the youngest person to ever hold the job. He later returned to the Pentagon as the 21st Secretary of Defense under President George W. Bush in 2001, serving until 2006 and becoming the oldest to serve in this role at age 74. This dual tenure across different eras of American history provides a unique perspective on leadership and service at varying stages of life, though his legacy is often viewed through the lens of his later, more controversial term.
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld stands at a lectern addressing political leaders.
His initial appointment in the Ford administration showcased a young, ambitious leader stepping into a significant role. Decades later, his return under President Bush highlighted the value of experience in navigating complex global challenges. While the concept of the “Oldest President To Serve” often enters public discourse when discussing presidential elections and fitness for office, Rumsfeld’s career provides a parallel example in the realm of cabinet leadership. His return to the Pentagon at an older age demonstrated a continued willingness to serve and apply his extensive knowledge, even as debates about age and leadership persist in political spheres.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III acknowledged Rumsfeld’s passing and his unique place in history. “Mr. Rumsfeld had the singular distinction of holding that post for two nonconsecutive tenures, serving as both the 13th secretary of defense and the 21st,” Austin stated. He further highlighted Rumsfeld’s earlier service in the U.S. Navy as a pilot and flight instructor from 1954-57, and his continued commitment as a reservist until his first appointment as Secretary of Defense in 1975.
Austin’s statement emphasized the breadth of Rumsfeld’s career: “Over the decades of his remarkable career, from Congress to the White House to the Pentagon, Secretary Rumsfeld was propelled by his boundless energy, probing intellect, and abiding commitment to serve his country.” This sentiment underscores Rumsfeld’s long-standing dedication to public service, spanning various roles and administrations, from his early days in Congress to his leadership positions in the executive branch.
Leadership During 9/11 and Beyond
Rumsfeld’s second term as Secretary of Defense was profoundly shaped by the events of September 11, 2001. He was present at the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 struck the building. Eyewitness accounts detail Rumsfeld’s immediate response, rushing to the crash site to assist in evacuation efforts and provide aid to the injured. Despite the ongoing crisis and the damage to the Pentagon, Rumsfeld remained at his post in the National Military Command Center, ensuring continuity of command and coordinating the military’s response to the terrorist attacks. That evening, he conducted a news conference from the still-damaged Pentagon, projecting resolve and leadership during a moment of national crisis.
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld in his Pentagon office in 1976.
In the aftermath of 9/11, Rumsfeld played a central role in shaping the U.S. response to al-Qaida. He collaborated with international leaders to build a coalition and spearheaded the initial military operations in Afghanistan in October 2001, targeting the terror group responsible for the attacks. His leadership during this period was pivotal in launching the global war on terror, a defining aspect of his second tenure as defense secretary. While discussions around the “oldest president to serve” often touch upon issues of stamina and decision-making under pressure, Rumsfeld’s actions on 9/11 and its aftermath demonstrated his capacity to lead effectively even in the face of immense pressure and at an advanced age.
Rumsfeld also oversaw the Department of Defense during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, a highly controversial military campaign that would significantly impact his legacy.
From Congressman to Corporate Leader to Defense Secretary
Born in Evanston, Illinois, on July 9, 1932, Donald Rumsfeld’s early life laid the foundation for a career marked by diverse achievements. He attended Princeton University on academic and Navy ROTC scholarships, and subsequently served as a Navy pilot from 1954 to 1957. His career path was unusually varied, encompassing roles in government, diplomacy, and the corporate world.
Before becoming Secretary of Defense, Rumsfeld served as a U.S. Congressman representing Illinois’ 13th Congressional District, elected in 1962 at the young age of 30. He held key positions in the Nixon administration, including heading the Office of Economic Opportunity in 1969, serving as a counselor to the President, and chairing the Economic Stabilization Program. He also served as U.S. Ambassador to NATO, gaining valuable diplomatic experience.
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld smiles during a Pentagon press briefing in 2003.
Following Nixon’s resignation, Rumsfeld served as President Ford’s chief of staff before being nominated and confirmed as the 13th Secretary of Defense in 1975. After his first tenure at the Pentagon, Rumsfeld transitioned to the private sector, becoming president of G.D. Searle & Co. He later served as CEO of General Instrument from 1990 to 1993 and as chairman of Gilead Sciences from 1997 to 2001, demonstrating his leadership capabilities in the business world. This blend of public and private sector experience was relatively unique among defense secretaries and provided him with a broad perspective as he returned to the Pentagon later in life.
Addressing 21st-Century Threats
When Rumsfeld commenced his second term as Secretary of Defense in January 2001, his initial focus was on modernizing the military to address emerging 21st-century threats. Prior to 9/11, he advocated for reducing spending on outdated weapons systems and investing in new technologies and strategies to counter evolving global challenges. He also aimed to restructure military organization and improve troop deployment capabilities for rapid response to crises worldwide.
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld smiles before a press briefing on Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. However, the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq overshadowed these initial plans, and his second term became largely defined by these conflicts. While his return to the Pentagon as an older, experienced leader was initially seen as an asset, the controversies and challenges of these wars ultimately led to his resignation in December 2006.
Despite the controversies, Rumsfeld’s long career in public service remains a notable example of dedication and leadership across different eras. Even though he was not the “oldest president to serve,” his position as the oldest Secretary of Defense highlights a different facet of leadership in advanced age, demonstrating both the potential benefits and challenges of experience in high-stakes government roles. After leaving office, he established the Rumsfeld Foundation in 2007, focusing on fellowships for individuals seeking to serve in government, further reflecting his enduring commitment to public service.
