Former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, who led the Pentagon at the start of the Global War on Terrorism in 2001, has died at 88, according to statement from his family.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Donald Rumsfeld, an American statesman and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather,” the family statement says. At 88, he was surrounded by family in his beloved Taos, New Mexico.”
Rumsfeld served as defense secretary twice under President Gerald Ford from 1975 to 1977 and later under President George W. Bush from 2001 until 2006.
On Sept. 11, 2001, Rumsfeld helped first responders evacuate people from the burning Pentagon after American Airlines Flight 77 slammed into the building. He would go on to oversee the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq.
“History may remember him for his extraordinary accomplishments over six decades of public service, but for those who knew him best and whose lives were forever changed as a result, we will remember his unwavering love for his wife Joyce, his family and friends, and the integrity he brought to a life dedicated to country,” his family said.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated with more information as it becomes available.
