Richard A. Boucher's legacy as a calming diplomat endures beyond his years of service.
Richard A. Boucher: A Key Voice in U.S. Diplomacy Passes Away at 73
Richard A. Boucher: A Key Voice in U.S. Diplomacy Passes Away at 73
Long-serving State Department spokesman was a steady presence through a turbulent era.
Richard A. Boucher, a revered figure in U.S. diplomacy and the longest-serving spokesman for the State Department, passed away at 73 on Friday at his Arlington, Virginia home. His son, Peter Boucher, shared that the cause was spindle cell carcinoma. Boucher's career spanned multiple presidencies, representing and explaining the U.S. foreign policy stance under both Republican and Democratic administrations.
Renowned for his noncombative tone and ability to simplify complex issues, Boucher worked closely with six secretaries of state from George H.W. Bush to George W. Bush. His insightful briefings captivated officials at the State Department, making his presentations essential listening. R. Nicholas Burns, a former under secretary of state, noted Boucher's unique skill set in articulating difficult policies to the American populace.
On September 11, 2001, Boucher was traveling in Peru with Secretary of State Colin Powell. While updating Powell about departmental priorities, Powell’s urgent interruption underscored the seismic shift in global affairs: "You don’t understand. This changes everything." This moment encapsulated Boucher's career—navigating and explaining the complexities of foreign relations during unprecedented times. In recognition of his contributions in 2008, he was appointed a career ambassador, a top honor in the diplomatic sphere. His voice and legacy continue to resonate in discussions about U.S. foreign policy.
Renowned for his noncombative tone and ability to simplify complex issues, Boucher worked closely with six secretaries of state from George H.W. Bush to George W. Bush. His insightful briefings captivated officials at the State Department, making his presentations essential listening. R. Nicholas Burns, a former under secretary of state, noted Boucher's unique skill set in articulating difficult policies to the American populace.
On September 11, 2001, Boucher was traveling in Peru with Secretary of State Colin Powell. While updating Powell about departmental priorities, Powell’s urgent interruption underscored the seismic shift in global affairs: "You don’t understand. This changes everything." This moment encapsulated Boucher's career—navigating and explaining the complexities of foreign relations during unprecedented times. In recognition of his contributions in 2008, he was appointed a career ambassador, a top honor in the diplomatic sphere. His voice and legacy continue to resonate in discussions about U.S. foreign policy.
