Date of Birth: July 21, 1938
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: May 21, 1995
Biography
Leslie Aspin Jr. was a prominent American politician and academic known for his service as the U.S. Secretary of Defense and as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Aspin was a Yale-educated economist who began his career in public service as an aide to Senator William Proxmire. He was elected to Congress in 1970, representing Wisconsin’s 1st congressional district, and served until 1993. Aspin was known for his expertise in defense matters and became Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. In 1993, President Bill Clinton appointed him as Secretary of Defense, where he served until 1994. Post-politics, he continued his involvement in academic and policy circles until his death in 1995.
5 Interesting Facts about Les Aspin
1. Aspin was a Rhodes Scholar and earned a degree in economics from Oxford University.
2. He played a significant role in shaping defense policy during the Cold War.
3. He was the primary architect behind the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
4. Aspin served as a professor at Marquette University after his political career.
5. He was awarded the Defense Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions to the Department of Defense.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Les Aspin
1. “The purpose of the military is to fight and win wars. To do this, it must be ready to go, train, and equip.”
2. “The American taxpayer deserves to know that their money is being spent wisely on defense.”
3. “We must adapt to the changing nature of threats in the post-Cold War world.”
4. “Effective defense policy requires a balance between strength and diplomacy.”
5. “Our greatest asset in national security is the men and women who serve.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Les Aspin’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
Les Aspin did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Les Aspin Biography – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_Aspin
4. [Les Aspin Center for Government – Marquette University](https://www.marquette.edu/aspin/
5. [Les Aspin’s Congressional Record](https://www.congress.gov/member/les-aspin/A000221