Former Defense Secretary Ash Carter, who served during former President Barack Obama’s second term, has died at the age of 68.
Carter “passed away Monday evening in Boston after a sudden cardiac event,” per a statement from the family.
“[Carter] devoted his professional life to the national security of the United States and teaching students about international affairs,” his family said. “He was a beloved husband, father, mentor, and friend. His sudden loss will be felt by all who knew him.”
“Secretary Carter loved nothing more than spending time with the troops, making frequent trips to Iraq and Afghanistan to visit U.S forces [with his wife Stephanie.] Carter always set politics aside; he served presidents of both parties over five administrations, holding multiple positions within the Department of Defense, including Deputy Secretary and Under Secretary Defense for Acquisition Technology and Logistics, in addition to serving as Secretary,” the statement continued.
During his time as the head of the Pentagon, he helped oversee the launch of the military campaign that would drive back the Islamic State militant group in Syria and Iraq, in addition to ending the ban on transgender officers in the military, later reinstated by the Trump administration. He opened all combat military jobs available to women as well.
During Obama’s first term, Carter served as the deputy secretary of state, and before that, he served as the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology, and logistics.
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Carter led the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard’s Kennedy School since leaving public service.
He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, and their two children.
