Norton A. Schwartz

Norton A. Schwartz is a retired general of the United States Air Force who served as the 19th Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force. His tenure from 2008 to 2012 was marked by significant focus on modernizing the service's nuclear enterprise and integrating unmanned aerial vehicles. A career special operations and air mobility officer, Schwartz was the first airman from the Air Force Special Operations Command to become Chief of Staff, bringing a unique perspective to the Pentagon's highest ranks. His leadership also spanned commands such as the United States Transportation Command and the Alaskan Command.

Early life and education

Born in Toms River, New Jersey, Schwartz was raised in Woodbury. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He later earned a Master of Arts degree in international relations from Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University. His early professional military education included attendance at the Squadron Officer School at Maxwell Air Force Base and the Air Command and Staff College.

Military career

Schwartz's operational career was deeply rooted in special operations and airlift missions. He initially flew the Lockheed C-130 Hercules with the 317th Tactical Airlift Wing at Pope Air Force Base. He transitioned to the Lockheed MC-130 Combat Talon, serving with the 8th Special Operations Squadron at Hurlburt Field and participating in operations like Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada and Operation Just Cause in Panama. During the Gulf War, he commanded the 16th Special Operations Wing and later served as Vice Commander of the Air Force Special Operations Command.

His staff assignments included roles on the Joint Staff in the Force Structure, Resources, and Assessment Directorate (J-8) and as Director for Strategic Planning at United States Special Operations Command. He commanded the Eleventh Air Force and Alaskan Command, followed by leadership of the United States Transportation Command at Scott Air Force Base. In 2008, he was appointed by President George W. Bush as Chief of Staff, succeeding Michael Moseley. His tenure focused on restoring confidence in the Air Force's nuclear stewardship after incidents involving Minuteman III components and B-52 Stratofortress nuclear weapons, while also expanding RPAs in the War in Afghanistan and Iraq War.

Post-military career

Upon retirement in 2012, Schwartz joined the private sector and several advisory boards. He became a senior executive at The Cohen Group, a consulting firm founded by former Secretary of Defense William S. Cohen. He has served on the board of directors for Leidos, a major defense contractor, and the National Defense Industrial Association. Schwartz is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and has been a frequent commentator on national security issues for outlets like the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Awards and decorations

Schwartz's personal decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal with one bronze oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, and the Defense Superior Service Medal. His awards for valor and combat service include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, and the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters. He also wears the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with valor device, and the Combat Readiness Medal.

Personal life

Schwartz is married to the former Suzie Tourville. He is an instrument-rated commercial pilot and an avid outdoorsman, with interests in fishing and hiking. He has been involved with charitable organizations supporting military families, including the Air Force Aid Society and the Fisher House Foundation. Since retirement, he has resided in the Washington, D.C. area.

Category:United States Air Force generals Category:United States Air Force Academy alumni Category:Chiefs of Staff of the United States Air Force Category:1951 births Category:Living people