January 27, 2013 | Press Release

FDD Mourns the Loss of Ambassador Max Kampelman

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of its friend and mentor, Ambassador Max M. Kampelman, who was a long-time member of FDD’s Leadership Council.

A lawyer, diplomat, and scholar, Ambassador Kampelman was a tireless advocate for a strong national security and for the promotion of democratic values. In 1980, he was named Ambassador to the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe and from 1985 to 1989 he served as President Reagan’s chief arms control negotiator. Ambassador Kampelman briefly served as Counselor of the Department of State before rejoining the law firm of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP.

In 1999, President Clinton awarded Ambassador Kampelman with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the nation. Ambassador Kampelman is also a recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal, which recognizes “citizens of the United States who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens,” and the Knight Commander's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. In April 2000, he was among those receiving the first Library of Congress “Living Legend” award.

“Ambassador Kampelman was a great American, a skilled statesman, a valued friend and a wise teacher,” said FDD President Clifford D. May. “He—and his many contributions—will be long remembered.”

FDD is honored to have enjoyed a warm and meaningful association with Ambassador Kampelman and continues to celebrate his exceptional life and dedication to public service.