James Peake
James Peake is a retired United States Army Lieutenant General and former United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. He served as the 6th Secretary of Veterans Affairs from December 2007 to January 2009 under President George W. Bush.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
James Peake was born on June 18, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1966. Peake later earned a medical degree from Cornell University in 1972.
Military Career[edit | edit source]
Peake's military career spanned over 38 years. He served in various capacities, including as a combat medic during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart for his service. Peake also held several key positions within the United States Army Medical Department (AMEDD), including Commanding General of the United States Army Medical Command and Surgeon General of the United States Army.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs[edit | edit source]
In December 2007, Peake was nominated by President George W. Bush to serve as the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. During his tenure, he focused on improving the delivery of healthcare services to veterans, enhancing the Veterans Health Administration's capabilities, and addressing the needs of veterans returning from the Iraq War and War in Afghanistan (2001–2021).
Post-Government Career[edit | edit source]
After leaving the Department of Veterans Affairs in January 2009, Peake continued to be involved in healthcare and veterans' issues. He has served on various boards and advisory committees related to healthcare and veterans' services.
Awards and Decorations[edit | edit source]
Throughout his distinguished career, Peake has received numerous awards and decorations, including:
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
James Peake is married and has children. He continues to reside in the United States and remains active in veterans' affairs and healthcare advocacy.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs
- United States Army Medical Department (AMEDD)
- Veterans Health Administration
- Vietnam War
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.- Medicine stubs
- Encyclopedia
- 1944 births
- Living people
- United States Army generals
- United States Secretaries of Veterans Affairs
- United States Military Academy alumni
- Cornell University alumni
- Recipients of the Silver Star
- Recipients of the Bronze Star Medal
- Recipients of the Purple Heart
- Recipients of the Legion of Merit
- Recipients of the Distinguished Service Medal (U.S. Army)
- People from St. Louis, Missouri
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
