Russell A. Rourke

Russell A. Rourke (December 30, 1931 – January 19, 2003) was a lawyer and public official. He served in key staff positions on Capital Hill and in senior executive positions within the Federal Government. President Ronald Reagan appointed him to serve as the fifteenth Secretary of the Air Force.

Education and early career

Born in New York City, Rourke attended the University of Maryland, receiving a bachelor of arts degree in 1953. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served in Korea, completing his active duty service as a first lieutenant. However, Rourke remained in the Marine Corps Reserve, eventually commanding the Marine Air Control Squadron 24 at Quantico, Virginia. He retired in 1985 as a colonel after 32 years of service. His Marine decorations include the Legion of Merit.

After being released from active duty in the Marine Corps, Rourke attended law school at Georgetown University Law Center earning a bachelor of laws degree in 1959. He then worked briefly in the Washington, D.C. law firm of Keogh, Carey and Costello as an associate attorney before beginning his public service career in 1960.