Diplomat and Scholar David M. Abshire Leaves Behind a Vital Legacy

• November 14, 2014

On October 31, the Center for the Study of the Presidency & Congress announced the passing of public servant and scholar David M. Abshire. Ambassador Abshire leaves behind a remarkable legacy, including vibrant research institutions and a lifetime of dedicated public service.

Ambassador to NATO

Mr. Abshire served as U.S. Ambassador to NATO from 1983 to 1987, a crucial period of the Cold War. As Ambassador Abshire oversaw the introduction of Pershing II missiles to Europe and helped to implement the Reagan Administration’s policies in Europe, which helped to end the Cold War. The recent 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall is an enduring reminder of the role that dedicated American diplomats, including Ambassador Abshire, played in bringing freedom to millions in Europe and Asia.

West Point

Mr. Abshire’s public service began early. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served valiantly in the Korean War, earning honors and commendations, including a Bronze Star.

A Life of Service

Mr. Abshire also served as Assistant Secretary of State for Congressional Relations and as Special Counselor to the President, in addition to being a prolific author. He cofounded the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in 1962. Most recently, Abshire served as vice chairman of the Center for the Study of the Presidency & Congress (CSPC), an organization he led from 1999 to 2012 as president and chief executive officer. Ambassador Abshire also served as president of the Richard Lounsbery Foundation, an organization that seeks to enhance national strengths in science and technology through education, grants, and policy support.

A Public Servant

James Carafano, Vice President for the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy at The Heritage Foundation, paid this tribute:

Ambassador Abshire dedicated his life to public service in and out of government. He believed that integrity and trust were the coins of the realm. His passion for a strong national defense and responsible, principled foreign policy were not matched by many.

Ambassador Abshire’s leadership helped to guide U.S. foreign policy for more than half a century. He will be greatly missed.

Daniel Kochis | Contributor

Daniel is formerly a research fellow for European affairs in the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom at The Heritage Foundation.

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