Deborah Lee James
- Born:
- November 25, 1958, Cape May, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Government Official, Business Executive
Early Life and Education
- Graduated from Haddonfield Memorial High School, Haddonfield, New Jersey.
- Received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from Duke University in 1980.
Career and Major Achievements
- Held various positions at the Department of Defense during the Clinton Administration, including Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs.
- Served as the 23rd Secretary of the Air Force from December 20, 2013, to January 20, 2017, under President Barack Obama. As Secretary, she was responsible for organizing, training, and equipping nearly 660,000 active-duty, Guard, Reserve, and civilian airmen. A factual account of Deborah James' Air Force biography highlights her significant contributions to military readiness and modernization.
- Currently serves as a board member for various corporations and non-profit organizations.
- Previously held executive positions at SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation).
Notable Works
- Authored the book "Aim High: Chart Your Course and Find Success" (2018).
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service | Multiple |
| Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award | 2017 |
Legacy and Impact
Deborah Lee James is recognized for her leadership and dedication to national security. Her service as Secretary of the Air Force, coupled with her extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, has solidified her position as a prominent figure in defense and government affairs.