James B. Busey IV facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Buchanan Busey IV
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Busey as Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, 1989
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| 5th United States Deputy Secretary of Transportation | |
| In office December 4, 1991 – February 21, 1992 |
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| President | George H. W. Bush |
| Secretary | Samuel K. Skinner |
| Preceded by | Elaine Chao |
| Succeeded by | Mortimer L. Downey |
| 11th Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration | |
| In office June 30, 1989 – December 4, 1991 |
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| President | George H. W. Bush |
| Preceded by | T. Allan McArtor |
| Succeeded by | Thomas C. Richards |
| 22nd Vice Chief of Naval Operations | |
| In office September 1985 – March 1987 |
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| President | Ronald Reagan |
| Preceded by | Ronald J. Hays |
| Succeeded by | Huntington Hardisty |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 2, 1932 Peoria, Illinois, U.S. |
| Nickname | "Jim" |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1952–1989 |
| Rank | Admiral |
| Commands |
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| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards |
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James Buchanan Busey IV, born on October 7, 1932, is a former American government official. He was also a four-star admiral in the United States Navy. He served in important roles like the Vice Chief of Naval Operations from 1985 to 1987. He also led the United States Naval Forces Europe from 1987 to 1989.
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James Buchanan Busey IV was born in Peoria, Illinois. In January 1952, he joined the United States Navy. He went through basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois.
In March 1953, Busey was chosen for the Aviation Cadet Training Program. This is where he learned to become a pilot for the Navy. He also studied at the Naval Postgraduate School in California. There, he earned degrees in science and business.
Serving in the Vietnam War
In January 1967, Busey became a pilot in the Attack Squadron 163. He flew missions during the Vietnam War. One time, he led a group of six planes to bomb a power plant near Hanoi, North Vietnam.
Even though his plane was hit by enemy fire, Busey kept control. He finished his mission and destroyed the target. Then, he safely returned to the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CV-34). For his bravery, he received the Navy Cross.
He also earned other awards during the Vietnam War. These included the Legion of Merit, three Distinguished Flying Crosses, and the Bronze Star Medal.
After a long career in the Navy, Admiral Busey retired. He then took on important roles in the government. From 1989 to 1991, he was the chief administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA is in charge of air travel safety in the United States.
After that, he served as the United States Deputy Secretary of Transportation. This role lasted from 1991 to 1992. Later, he joined the board of a company called Curtiss-Wright until 2008.
Family Life
James Busey IV married Jean L. Cole. They have three children:
- James Buchanan Busey V (1962-2008)
- Angela R. B. Busey
- Nancy J. B. Busey
Awards and Honors
Admiral Busey received many awards for his service. Some of his most notable awards include:
- Navy Cross
- Defense Distinguished Service Medal (three times)
- Navy Distinguished Service Medal (three times)
- Legion of Merit (five times)
- Distinguished Flying Cross (three times)
- Bronze Star Medal
- Air Medal
