Ed Derwinski, American soldier and politician, 1st United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs (b. 1926)

Edward Joseph Derwinski (September 15, 1926 – January 15, 2012) was a distinguished American politician whose career spanned over three decades of dedicated public service, culminating in a historically significant role. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, where he served during World War II, Derwinski's firsthand experience likely shaped his lifelong commitment to national defense and veterans' welfare.

Before his landmark appointment, Derwinski served with distinction as a member of the United States House of Representatives for 24 years, from 1959 to 1983. As a Republican congressman, he represented the geographically diverse south and southwest suburbs of Chicago, specifically Illinois's 4th congressional district until 1973, and subsequently the 3rd district. During his extensive tenure in Congress, Derwinski earned a reputation as a conservative voice and was particularly active in foreign policy, serving on the House Foreign Affairs Committee. His legislative focus often included national security and the fiscal responsibility of government, reflecting his consistent political philosophy.

Derwinski's most notable contribution to American public service came on March 15, 1989, when he was appointed by President George H. W. Bush to serve as the inaugural Cabinet-level United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. This appointment marked a pivotal moment in the history of veterans' care in the United States. Previously known as the Veterans Administration (VA), the agency was elevated to a Cabinet department under the Veterans' Benefits and Services Act of 1988, a move designed to afford veterans' issues greater prominence and direct advocacy within the highest levels of the federal government. As the first to hold this elevated position until September 26, 1992, Secretary Derwinski was instrumental in overseeing the critical transition of the VA into a major Cabinet department. He was responsible for a vast array of services provided to millions of American veterans and their families, including healthcare through the Veterans Health Administration, benefits like disability compensation and pensions, and assistance with education and housing. His leadership during this foundational period helped to shape the modern structure and operations of the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring a stronger, more direct voice for those who served.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edward J. Derwinski

Who was Edward J. Derwinski?
Edward J. Derwinski was an American politician and a World War II veteran who notably served as the first Cabinet-level United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs under President George H. W. Bush, following a long career as a U.S. Representative from Illinois.
What was Edward Derwinski's most significant political role?
His most significant political role was serving as the first United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs from 1989 to 1992. This position was groundbreaking as it elevated the Veterans Administration to a Cabinet-level department, providing veterans' issues with direct representation in the President's Cabinet.
When did the Department of Veterans Affairs become a Cabinet-level department?
The Department of Veterans Affairs officially became a Cabinet-level department on March 15, 1989, when Edward J. Derwinski was sworn in as its first Secretary under President George H. W. Bush. This transformation emphasized the nation's commitment to its veterans.
Which areas did Edward J. Derwinski represent in the U.S. House of Representatives?
From 1959 to 1983, Edward J. Derwinski represented the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago in the U.S. House of Representatives, initially serving Illinois's 4th congressional district and later the 3rd district.