Press Release
Statement from CNA on the Passing of Retired General Gordon Sullivan
Our hearts are heavy following news this week of the passing of our friend and colleague, retired U.S. Army General Gordon Sullivan. Gen. Sullivan is celebrated for his many achievements over a lengthy military career, including serving as the 32nd Chief of Staff of the Army. After retiring from military service, he continued in leadership roles at the Association of the United States Army, the Army Historical Foundation, and CNA, where he was a thoughtful and tireless advocate for climate security.
In 2007, Gen. Sullivan chaired the CNA Military Advisory Board, the first group of generals and admirals to address the national security implications of climate change. Gen. Sullivan's work helped increase awareness globally that climate change was a threat multiplier, of concern to all who work in national security.
Sherri Goodman, founder of CNA's Military Advisory Board, reflected: "So many of us are blessed to have known General Sullivan. I count myself among them. He represents the best of America and the best in all of us."
Cherie Rosenblum, CNA's Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and current executive director of CNA's Military Advisory Board also lauded his impact at CNA: "General Sullivan led the way for the Military Advisory Board’s seminal work on national security and the threat of climate change. He served as a mentor to many at CNA, and his voice continues to echo across the field as work on climate security has matured and expanded. I personally am privileged to have known him and know that much of the progress in this area has been the direct result of his leadership and support on the issue."
Sullivan's impact on CNA permeates throughout the organization and has left an indelible mark on our legacy.
CNA is a nonprofit research and analysis organization dedicated to the safety and security of the nation. It operates the Center for Naval Analyses—the federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) of the Department of the Navy—as well as the Institute for Public Research. CNA develops actionable solutions to complex problems of national importance. With nearly 700 scientists, analysts, and professional staff, CNA takes a real-world approach to gathering data. Its unique Field Program places analysts on aircraft carriers and military bases, in squad rooms and crisis centers, working side by side with operators and decision-makers around the world. CNA supports naval operations, fleet readiness, and strategic competition. Its non-defense research portfolio includes criminal justice, homeland security, and data management.
Note to writers and editors: CNA is not an acronym and is correctly referenced as "CNA, a research organization in Arlington, VA."