Rear Admiral Edward D. Sheafer, Jr.
DIA Deputy Director RDML, “Ted” Sheafer, Jr. passed away on 27 June 2016 at the age of 75 following a short illness. His remains were interred at Arlington National Cemetery on Friday, 24 March 2017. Many of his US Navy, IC, and DIA colleagues attended the burial service, including two former DIA Directors.
RDML Sheafer’s career included assignments as JCS J2 under Admiral William Crowe and General Colin Powell as well as Deputy Director of DIA during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, working with then Director of DIA, Lieutenant General Harry E. Soyster. He also served as Director of Naval Intelligence from August 1991 to September 1994.
Sheafer pioneered many efforts which have become ubiquitous far beyond the IC, including the Predator UAV, and the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System (JWICS). After 35 years of active service, he retired from the Navy in 1995 and relocated to Pennsylvania where he acted as an adviser to
senior levels in the defense and intelligence communities and continued his pioneering work in advanced wireless communications capabilities, and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) product development.
Admiral Schaefer continued his association with DIA following his retirement, attending several Former Director Days/Homecomings. He continued to voice his opinion on intelligence issues. Those who knew him recognized a great passion for the development of the tools and methods needed to ensure the safety and security of our nation.
|