Introduction
Louis Caldera may not be a household name, but he is one of the most interesting and enigmatic figures in American politics. A former US Army Secretary under President Bill Clinton, Caldera has had a fascinating life that spans military service, politics, and education. In this post, we will unmask the mysterious life of Louis Caldera and shed light on some lesser-known aspects of his career.
Early Life and Education
Louis Caldera was born on April 1, 1956, in El Paso, Texas, to a Mexican-American family. He grew up in a poor neighborhood and attended local public schools. Caldera graduated from the US Military Academy at West Point in 1978 with a degree in engineering. He later earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Harvard University and a law degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Military Service
Louis Caldera had an impressive military career that spanned over a decade. He served in various leadership positions, including platoon leader, company commander, and battalion operations officer. He also served as an aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and was deployed to Honduras and Kuwait during Operation Desert Storm. Caldera retired from the Army in 1992 as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Political Career
After leaving the military, Louis Caldera jumped into politics and was elected to the California State Assembly in 1992. He represented the district that included downtown Los Angeles and worked on issues such as healthcare reform, transportation, and affordable housing. He later served as President of the University of New Mexico and was appointed by President Bill Clinton to be the 17th Secretary of the Army in 1998.
US Army Secretary
As the US Army Secretary, Louis Caldera was responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Army. He worked on various initiatives, including the modernization of Army equipment and the integration of new technology. One of his most controversial decisions was to approve a flyover of New York City by a military jet on April 27, 2009, which caused widespread panic and outrage. Caldera resigned from his position two weeks later.
Academic Career and Awards
After leaving government service, Louis Caldera returned to academia and served as a professor at various universities, including Harvard University, UCLA, and Arizona State University. He has received numerous awards and honors for his service and leadership, including the Distinguished Service Cross, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Legion of Merit.
Personal Life
Louis Caldera is married and has three children. He is a devoted Catholic and has been involved in various charitable organizations, including the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Charities.
Controversies
Aside from the flyover controversy, Louis Caldera has been involved in other controversies throughout his career. In 1998, he was accused of sexual harassment by a former aide and settled the case out of court. In 2011, he was arrested for DUI in Los Angeles and pleaded guilty to the charge, receiving probation and community service.
Legacy
Despite the controversies, Louis Caldera’s legacy is one of leadership, service, and commitment. He has dedicated his life to public service and has made a lasting impact in various fields, including the military, politics, and academia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Louis Caldera is a fascinating and complex figure in American politics. His life and career span multiple areas of service, including military, government, and education. Although he has been involved in controversies, he remains a respected and accomplished leader who has made significant contributions to society.
FAQs
1) Who is Louis Caldera?
Louis Caldera is a former US Army Secretary who served under President Bill Clinton. He has also served as a California State Assemblyman and President of the University of New Mexico.
2) What is Louis Caldera known for?
Louis Caldera is known for his military service, political career, and leadership in education. He is also known for his controversial decision to approve a military flyover of New York City in 2009.
3) What controversies has Louis Caldera been involved in?
Louis Caldera has been involved in several controversies throughout his career, including allegations of sexual harassment and a DUI arrest.
4) What awards and honors has Louis Caldera received?
Louis Caldera has received numerous awards and honors for his service and leadership, including the Distinguished Service Cross, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Legion of Merit.
5) What is Louis Caldera’s legacy?
Louis Caldera’s legacy is one of leadership, service, and commitment to public service. He has made significant contributions in various fields, including the military, politics, and education.