James B. Peake

Biography

James Benjamin Peake, born on June, 18th, 1944 is a former United States Secretary of Veteran Affairs serving from 2007 to 2009, as well as the 40th Surgeon General of the United States Army. In 2004 he retired from his 38-year career in the United States Army.

Education

At the age of 18, James B. Peake integrated the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and started so its military career. He graduated from the institution with a Bachelor of Science. After serving in Vietnam he enrolled on medical school at Cornell University and graduated with a doctorate in 1972.

Military and Political Career

In 1966 James B. Peake was commissioned second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Infantry and served in Vietnam. He served for four years as U.S. Army Surgeon General, and commander of several medical units. He retired from the military in 2004 as Lieutenant General. After that, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Project HOPE, a not-for-profit international health organization present in over 30 countries. In 2007 James B . Peak was confirmed State Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs, serving until 2009.

External Links and References

http://projects.militarytimes.com/citations-medals-awards/recipient.php?recipientid=30346