Frank Pace

Frank Pace. Frank Pace Jr. was an American government official and corporate executive who served as the third United States Secretary of the Army under President Harry S. Truman during a pivotal period of the Korean War. His career spanned significant roles in the United States Department of Justice, the Bureau of the Budget, and later leadership of major corporations like the International Telephone and Telegraph (ITT). Pace is noted for his administrative skill and his role in the early integration of the United States Armed Forces.

Early life and education

Frank Pace Jr. was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and attended local schools before pursuing higher education in the Northeastern United States. He earned his undergraduate degree from the prestigious Princeton University, where he was a member of the Cottage Club. Following his graduation, Pace continued his studies at Harvard Law School, one of the nation's leading legal institutions, receiving his Bachelor of Laws degree. His academic background at these elite universities provided a strong foundation for his future career in public service and law.

Military career

With the entry of the United States into World War II, Pace enlisted in the United States Army. He served with distinction, rising to the rank of Major in the United States Army Air Forces. His service included assignments within the Office of the Judge Advocate General, where he applied his legal expertise to military matters. Following the end of the war, Pace was honorably discharged in 1946, having contributed to the massive logistical and legal efforts of the Allies of World War II.

Government service

Pace's government career began in the United States Department of Justice as an assistant to the Attorney General of the United States. His administrative talents were soon recognized, leading to his appointment as the executive assistant to the Postmaster General. In 1948, President Truman selected him to serve as the assistant director of the Bureau of the Budget, a key agency within the Executive Office of the President of the United States. His performance there led to his nomination and confirmation as the United States Secretary of the Army in 1950. As Secretary, he oversaw the United States Army during the intense early years of the Korean War, managing the rapid expansion and mobilization of forces. He worked closely with officials like Secretary of Defense George C. Marshall and General of the Army Omar Bradley, and was present at the controversial dismissal of General Douglas MacArthur by President Truman in 1951.

Post-government career

After leaving the Truman Administration in 1953, Pace embarked on a successful career in the private sector. He served as the president and later chairman of the International Telephone and Telegraph (ITT), a global conglomerate. He also held leadership positions with the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, where he was its first chairman, and served on the boards of several major companies, including General Dynamics and the First National City Bank. Pace remained active in public affairs, serving on commissions such as the Rockefeller Commission investigating the Central Intelligence Agency.

Personal life and death

Frank Pace was married to Margaret Johnston, and the couple had two children. He maintained residences in New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut, and was known for his involvement in various civic and cultural organizations. In his later years, he received honors including the Distinguished Public Service Medal from the United States Department of Defense. Pace died of pneumonia in Greenwich, Connecticut, and was interred at Arlington National Cemetery, a resting place for many notable American military and government figures.

Category:1912 births Category:1988 deaths Category:United States Secretaries of the Army Category:American businesspeople