Michael Hayden (general)
Michael Vincent Hayden (born April 17, 1945) is a retired four-star general in the United States Air Force and former Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
Early Life and Education:
Hayden was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1967 and a Master of Arts degree in political science in 1969, both from Duquesne University. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program at Duquesne.
Military Career:
Hayden's military career spanned over three decades, primarily in intelligence roles. He served in a variety of command and staff positions, including:
- Commander, Air Intelligence Agency
- Director, Joint Command and Control Warfare Center
- Chief of Staff, United States European Command
- Deputy Chief of Staff for Information Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force
Director of the National Security Agency (NSA):
Hayden served as Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) from 1999 to 2005. During his tenure, he oversaw the agency's response to the September 11 attacks and the implementation of controversial surveillance programs such as the Terrorist Surveillance Program.
Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence:
From 2005 to 2006, Hayden served as the first Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence under Director of National Intelligence John Negroponte.
Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA):
Hayden was appointed Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in May 2006 and served until February 2009. As Director, he was responsible for overseeing the collection of foreign intelligence and the conduct of covert operations.
Post-Government Career:
Following his retirement from government service, Hayden has worked as a commentator, consultant, and academic. He is a Distinguished Visiting Professor at George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government. He has also been a vocal commentator on national security issues in various media outlets. He has authored books, including "Playing to the Edge: American Intelligence in the Age of Terror."
Controversies:
Hayden's career has been marked by controversy, primarily related to the surveillance programs implemented by the NSA under his leadership. These programs, including warrantless wiretapping, sparked debate about the balance between national security and civil liberties. He has defended these programs as necessary to protect the United States from terrorist attacks.
Awards and Decorations:
General Hayden's awards and decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.