Famous Suicides James Vincent Forrestal

About the famous Secretary of Defense James Vincent Forrestal, biography and history of the suicide.

JAMES VINCENT FORRESTAL (1892-1949)

Life: Appointed as the 1st U.S. Secretary of Defense by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Forrestal was also a member of the National Security Council, National Security Resources Board, and the Hoover Commission. As Under-secretary and Secretary of the Navy, he had reorganized the U.S. Navy and built it into one of the world's largest military forces. One of the most important and influential government officials, Forrestal fought against communism, advocated military control over the atomic bomb, and opposed establishment of the nation of Israel. A loner, estranged from his family and with few close friends, he dedicated himself to his job, working 18 to 20 hours a day.

Death: Forrestal resigned as Secretary of Defense in 1949 and shortly afterward was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal by President Truman. Five days after receiving the award, he was admitted to Bethesda Naval Hospital for what was termed "occupational fatigue." Approximately a month and a half later, he jumped from the 16th floor of the hospital.

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