Richard L. Armitage, Key State Department Official, Dies at 79
Richard L. Armitage, former deputy secretary of state, died at 79 from a pulmonary embolism. He served during pivotal events such as the Iraq War and the 9/11 attacks, was involved in a notable leak of CIA operative’s identity, and expressed regret over the incident. A veteran and seasoned diplomat, he endorsed Democrat candidates in later years, reflecting a shift from his Republican roots.
Richard L. Armitage, who was the deputy secretary of state from 2001 to 2005, passed away at 79 due to a pulmonary embolism. His tenure encompassed significant events like the 9/11 attacks and the Iraq War. Armitage was also known for leading the consulting firm, Armitage International, based in Virginia.
A Naval Academy graduate and Vietnam veteran, Armitage worked under three Republican presidents, advocating for strong American foreign relations. As part of a group called “the Vulcans,” he provided strategic advice to President George W. Bush during his initial term, including defense issues related to Iraq.
He gained notoriety for leaking the identity of CIA operative Valerie Plame Wilson in 2003, sparking a major scandal following the Iraq invasion. Armitage’s leak triggered a special prosecutor’s investigation after Plame’s husband criticized the government’s statements regarding Iraq’s alleged nuclear capabilities.
Mr. Armitage later admitted to being the source of the leak and expressed regret about the incident, claiming it was unintentional. Despite the scandal’s fallout, he faced no criminal charges, although an aide to Vice President Cheney was convicted for lying to investigators.
A prominent figure during a pivotal time in U.S. politics, Armitage coordinated with Pakistani officials during the War on Terror, allegedly resorting to threats to secure their support, which he later denied. After resigning in 2005, he entered the private sector and voiced his opposition to CIA torture methods in 2009.
Born on April 26, 1945, in Massachusetts and raised in Atlanta, Armitage’s early life included significant military service and diplomatic engagements. He held various roles in the government, including assistant secretary of defense during the Reagan administration and ambassador positions under George H.W. Bush.
Armitage is survived by his wife Laura, eight children, a brother, a sister, and 12 grandchildren. His later years included political endorsements expressing his views against Donald Trump and in favor of Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden.
Richard L. Armitage was a significant figure in U.S. foreign policy, particularly during the early 2000s. His involvement in key events such as the Iraq War and the Valerie Plame scandal highlights the complexities of his career. His legacy includes contributions to national defense strategy, as well as a shift towards advocacy for ethical considerations in wartime practices. He leaves behind a large family and a controversial but impactful career.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
