The Executive Committee—on behalf of all the board directors, members, and staff of the Atlantic Council—mourns the loss of David Acheson, an Atlantic Council honorary board director and former President and CEO of the Atlantic Council, a position he served in from 1993-1999. He passed away peacefully at his home in Washington, DC, on August 16, 2018, at the age of 96.

As the son of one of the Atlantic Council’s founders, Dean Acheson, David spent his life continuing his father’s legacy, both inside and outside of government. His heritage influenced his life, his work, and his principled dedication to promoting US engagement in the world.

David served on the Presidential Commission on the Space Shuttle “Challenger” Accident in 1986 after having served as SVP for the Communications Satellite Corporation. He was the former Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Communications Satellite Corporation from 1967 to 1974.

David’s enthusiasm for the Atlantic Council and its mission was infectious.