By Robbin Laird
This is the second in our series about our 16-year path associated with our defense websites, Second Line of Defense and Defense Information.
Recognition of the contribution of the many talented individuals who have contributed to the path forward is central to highlighting the path forward as well.
Going forward, the series highlights the contributions of key participants in the journety, and there is no more central figure than Edward Timperlake.
His professional journey stands as a powerful example of multidimensional commitment to national defense, government leadership, and investigative analysis.
With a career spanning high-stakes operational roles, senior government appointments, and insightful contributions to defense literature, Timperlake’s story demonstrates a rare blend of practical experience and strategic thought leadership.
Timperlake began his career with a strong academic foundation, graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1969. He pursued further education by earning an MBA from Cornell University, preparing himself for both operational leadership and complex organizational roles.
Entering the U.S. Marine Corps, Timperlake trained as a fighter pilot and quickly distinguished himself. His service included a combat tour during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal (2 stars). Rising through the ranks, he commanded VMFA-321, a Marine Corps reserve fighter squadron, highlighting his leadership of operational aviation units and engagement in advanced tactical training programs.
After his active military service, Timperlake transitioned to several senior government positions:
- As Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (1989–1992), he played pivotal roles in Congressional, public, and intergovernmental affairs, including leading medical mobilization during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and acting as a key spokesperson on Gulf War Illnesses.
- Serving as Principal Director of Mobilization Planning and Requirements in the Office of the Secretary of Defense under President Reagan, he contributed to both DOD mobilization planning and continuity of government initiatives.
- On Capitol Hill, Timperlake worked with the House Committee on Rules, focusing on national security issues including the investigation of illegal foreign contributions to political campaigns and participating in NATO’s North Atlantic Assembly affairs.
Transitioning into the private sector, he directed classified studies on military modernization as a Program Manager at The Analytic Sciences Corporation (TASC). Notably, he developed the TASCFORM methodology, a significant innovation for assessing global military air power modernization, of lasting value to sponsors such as the Department of Defense and the CIA.
Timperlake’s expertise reached a wider audience through his editorial leadership and authorship:
- As key part of the leadership team for Second Line of Defense and Defense.info, he contributed in-depth reporting and analysis on defense technology and policy issues.
- His books have garnered national attention, including the New York Times best-selling Year of the Rat, Red Dragon Rising, Showdown, and Rebuilding American Military Power in the Pacific: A 21st Century Strategy, co-authored with Robbin Laird and Richard Weitz.
Demonstrating a commitment to public service beyond government, he has served on the board of the Vietnam Children’s Fund, facilitating the construction of elementary schools in Vietnam—a testament to his long-term vision for reconciliation and community-building.
Edward Timperlake’s varied career highlights a unique fusion of combat experience, strategic planning, policy innovation, and a passion for informing public understanding.
His influence continues to resonate in U.S. security circles, military modernization debates, and humanitarian efforts making him a respected voice in every sphere he has engaged.
And below are two books which we have written together which were driven by our work on the websites.
Breaking Through the Echo Chamber: Sixteen Years of Comprehensive Defense Analysis