Secretary of defense carter biography

Ashton Carter, the former secretary of defense who put particular focus on the rights of transgender soldiers, died Monday at age 68 at his home in Boston.

"It is with deep and profound sadness that the family of former Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter shares that Secretary Carter passed away Monday evening in Boston after a sudden cardiac event at the age of 68," Carter's family said in a statement.

"[He] devoted his professional life to the national security of the United States and teaching students about international affairs.

Defense.gov Biography: Ashton B. Carter - House

He was a beloved husband, father, mentor, and friend. His sudden loss will be felt by all who knew him."

Among Carter's most significant initiatives as secretary of defense were his pushes for greater inclusivity in the U.S. Armed Forces. In December 2015, Carter announced that all military roles would be open for women to serve.

"This means that as long as they qualify and meet the standards, women will be able to contribute to our mission in ways Ashton Carter - Ballotpedia LYN