Skelton On Board

Retired Congressman and former House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) has joined EADS North America's board of directors, the company announced in a statement released this afternoon:

The EADS North America Board of Directors has confirmed the board appointment of Ike Skelton, who most recently served for 34 years as a U.S. Representative from Missouri. Skelton's Congressional career culminated in the role of chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, in which capacity he served from 2007 to 2011.

"Ike Skelton has a distinguished record of service to our nation, especially in support of the men and women of our military," said Ralph Crosby, Chairman of EADS North America. "His patriotism and leadership will be tremendous assets for EADS North America as we continue seeking to bring innovative, best-value solutions to the U.S. military in support of its missions."

Prior to his seventeen terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, Skelton served for six years as a Missouri state senator, beginning in 1971. Having begun his career in the field of law, he served in private practice and as a prosecuting attorney in Lafayette County, Mo., followed by three years in the role of Special Assistant to the Missouri Attorney General.

A lifelong native of Lexington, Mo., Skelton earned an Associate of Arts degree from Wentworth Military Academy and College in 1951 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Missouri in 1953 and 1956, respectively. He is the recipient of 14 honorary master’s and doctorate degrees and more than 60 awards and tributes.