Remembering Dr. James Roche: A Life of “Teamwork, Tone, and Tenacity”™ (T3) Leadership!

It is with profound sadness that we marked the passing yesterday of Dr. James Roche, the 20th Secretary of the Air Force (SECAF) and CAPT, USN (Ret), at the age of 86. A dear friend and steadfast role model as a member of our Board of Directors for the

United States Naval Academy’s “Friends of the Jewish Chapel,” Jim embodied the “T3” leadership framework. From Commanding Officer of USS BUCHANAN (DDG 14), 1973–75, where his ship earned the Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy as the Navy’s most improved combat unit in the Pacific, to guiding the Air Force through the post-9/11 era, his career bridged sea and air power in service to our nation. His inspirational leadership included:

– TEAMWORK: As a surface warfare officer during Vietnam CO of a Guided Missile Destroyer during the Cold War, he forged a cohesive crew capable of rapid improvement and operational excellence, transforming individual sailors into a high-performing unit that delivered results under demanding conditions. At Northrop Grumman from 1984-2001, he succeeded in multiple high-level executive positions, most notably serving as Corporate Vice President and President of the Electronic Sensors and Systems Sector. In the Department of the

Air Force, he prioritized the welfare of nearly 700,000 active-duty, Guard, Reserve, and civilian personnel and their families, fostering collaboration across services and with industry partners to modernize capabilities and strengthen joint operations. He understood that mission success depends on mutual trust and shared purpose.

– TONE: Jim set a positive, professional climate that inspired those around him. Whether mentoring junior officers at sea, advising on national security policy, or serving as SECAF, he projected calm competence and genuine care for people. He was also a relentless learner and earned a PhD from Harvard Business School along the way. Colleagues and subordinates recall a leader who elevated morale through clear expectations, respect, and an unwavering focus on excellence rather than ego.

– TENACITY: His perseverance with purpose carried him through decades of demanding service and complex responsibilities. From rigorous naval command and intelligence-related assignments to executive roles at Northrop Grumman and the highest levels of the Air Force, he persisted through budgetary pressures, technological transitions, and the demands of wartime leadership. His dogged grit and resolve defined his lifelong dedication to continuous improvement , national defense and philanthropy, as we saw his generosity while serving our Non Profit Board dedicated to enhancing the religious and cultural lives of Jewish Midshipmen.

We salute CAPT, USN (Ret) and SECAF Dr. James Roche for a lifetime of patriotism and selfless service to our nation.

His exemplification of “Teamwork, Tone, Tenacity” will continue to inspire those who lead in uniform and in civilian life.

Fair winds and following seas, Jim.

Your legacy endures.

May your memory be a blessing.