Former secretary of defense visits Offutt

  • Published
  • By David R. Hopper
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld visited here March 18 for a book signing at the Offutt Exchange.

Rumsfeld autographed his book, "Known and Unknown," for Team Offutt members and their families for approximately two hours.

His memoir, "Known and Unknown," was number one on the New York Times bestsellers list, and Rumsfeld has traveled to military installations around the country personalizing copies of his book and meeting service members and their families.

The line to meet Rumsfeld stretched from the rear of the store out into the hallway by the clothing sales area.

"We attempted to accommodate everyone," said Rana Niemi, Offutt Exchange operations manager. "Unfortunately, Mr. Rumsfeld only had a finite amount of time."

During his visit, Rumsfeld met with Col. Kevin Dixon, 55th Wing vice commander, and other members of the wing's leadership team for a meet and greet.

"It was a pleasure to meet Mr. Rumsfeld," Dixon said. "The fact that Mr. Rumsfeld is donating the proceeds from the sale of his book to various veteran charities is humbling and Team Offutt thanks him for his dedication and service to our country."

Even though the event was meant for people to get their copy of "Known and Unknown" personalized, some people brought in other items for Rumsfeld to autograph, including model airplanes. At the end of the event more than 300 personalized copies of "Known and Unknown" were sold.

"The event was a great success and Mr. Rumsfeld signed autographs all the way until 1 p.m.," Niemi said. "Hopefully the Offutt Exchange can host future events like this one for the Offutt community."

The Rumsfeld Foundation has currently donated more than $800,000 to veterans' organizations since the foundation began.