Michael W. Wynne

Michael W. Wynne is an American businessman and former government official who served as the 21st United States Secretary of the Air Force. Appointed by President George W. Bush, his tenure from 2005 to 2008 was marked by significant modernization efforts and internal challenges. Wynne's career spans decades in the United States Department of Defense, the private sector, and the United States Army.

Early life and education

Michael W. Wynne was born on September 4, 1944, in New York City. He received his primary and secondary education in the New York area before receiving an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Air Defense Artillery. Following his initial military service, Wynne pursued advanced degrees, earning a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern California and a Master of Science in astronautics from Purdue University.

Military and civilian career

Wynne served on active duty from 1966 to 1973, achieving the rank of Captain. His assignments included service with air defense units in the United States and South Korea. After leaving the United States Army, he began a lengthy career in the defense industry and public service. He held senior positions at General Dynamics, where he worked on major programs like the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Wynne later served in the United States Department of Defense as Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, playing a key role in managing the Defense Acquisition System and overseeing the Missile Defense Agency.

United States Secretary of the Air Force

Nominated by President George W. Bush, Wynne was confirmed by the United States Senate and sworn in as United States Secretary of the Air Force on November 3, 2005. His tenure focused on transforming the United States Air Force for 21st century challenges, emphasizing the development and fielding of new systems like the F-22 Raptor, the F-35 Lightning II, and next-generation bombers. He also championed the expansion of unmanned aerial systems and the establishment of cyber warfare as a core mission. His term was significantly impacted by the 2007 United States Air Force nuclear weapons incident, involving the unauthorized transfer of nuclear weapons between Minot Air Force Base and Barksdale Air Force Base. Following the incident and a subsequent review by an independent advisory board led by former Secretary of Defense James R. Schlesinger, Wynne, along with Chief of Staff T. Michael Moseley, was asked to resign by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. He left office on June 20, 2008.

Post-government career

After his service as United States Secretary of the Air Force, Wynne returned to the private sector and academia. He has served on the boards of several aerospace and defense companies, including L-3 Communications and Aerojet Rocketdyne. He is a frequent commentator on national security and defense acquisition issues, contributing to publications and think tanks like the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Wynne also lectures at institutions such as his alma mater, the United States Military Academy, and the National Defense University.

Personal life

Michael Wynne is married to Linda Wynne, and they have three children. He maintains an active interest in supporting military families and veterans' organizations. His awards and decorations include the Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

Category:1944 births Category:Living people Category:United States Secretaries of the Air Force Category:United States Military Academy alumni Category:Purdue University alumni Category:University of Southern California alumni Category:United States Army officers