Thomas S Gates (CG 51) - Naval Cruise Book

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V 7 . , gf ,fa S VC! Mfjwff f W THOMAS S. GA TES, JR. H g The Honorable Thomas Sovereign Gates, Jr. I 1906-19832 left a record of civilian executive service unparalleled in the history of the Department of Defense. Born in Philadelphia, a graduate of Chestnut Hill Academy and the University of Pennsylvania, he entered active duty with the Navy in 1942. During World War II he was involved in combat action in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. He earned two Bronze Stars and rose to the rank of Captain. Mr. Gates was called to Washington in 1953 to serve as Undersecretary of the Navy. He became Secretary of the Navy in 1952 Deputy Secretary of Defense in May 1959, and Secretary of Defense in December of the same year. He held that post to the end of the Eisenhower administration in 1961. His most significant accomplishments included the introduction of modern weapons and nuclear propulsion systems into the fleet and major reorganization of the administrative structure within the Navy. Later, Mr. Gates rendered distinguished service as head of the United States Liaison Office to the People's Republic of China I 1976-1977j, having been appointed to that ambassadorial-rank post by President Ger- ald R. Ford.

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