2009-01-22

Hagee to head Nimitz Foundation

Contributed

Administrators of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation recently announced the appointment of General Michael W. Hagee, USMC (Ret) as its new executive director.  

Hagee served as the 33rd Commandant of the Marine Corps and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2004 to 2007. He has served on the foundation’s all-volunteer Board since 2007. As executive director, he will work closely with the other members of the board, the foundation staff, the staff of the National Museum of the Pacific War, and the Texas Historical Commission to maintain and enhance the museum as a world-class history and research center in historic Fredericksburg.

John Kerr, chairman of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation commented, “We are delighted to have such a distinguished and experienced individual to follow Admiral Chuck Grojean as our new executive director. General Hagee’s knowledge of the foundation and his passion for its mission will ensure a seamless leadership transition.”

Kerr continued, “Because he was raised in Fredericksburg, General Hagee understands the role the foundation and its museum play as a part of this community and the Texas Hill Country.”

Hagee noted, “I am honored to follow Admiral Grojean and assume this important position at the foundation. Admiral Grojean was an inspirational leader and visionary. I look forward to helping realize this vision by working with the foundation’s board, museum employees and our many supporters. My wife, Silke, and I are excited about becoming a part of the Fredericksburg community.”

A graduate of Fredericksburg High School, Hagee retired from the US Marine Corps in January 2007. While a general officer, his command assignments included Commanding General of the 1st Marine Division and the I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Hagee’s staff assignments included serving as senior military assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense; executive assistant to the Director of Central Intelligence; Deputy Director of Operations, US European Command; and Director Strategic Plans and Policy, US Pacific Command.

The Admiral Nimitz Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) non–profit organization, has supported the mission of the National Museum of the Pacific War since 1970. The National Museum of the Pacific War is the only institution in the continental United States dedicated exclusively to telling the story of the Pacific Theater battles of World War II.