Richard A. Boucher, a distinguished State Department spokesman who became a familiar and calming presence in American diplomacy, has passed away at the age of 73 after battling spindle cell carcinoma. His son, Peter Boucher, confirmed the news of his father's death, which occurred at their home in Arlington, Virginia.
Boucher's career spanned six presidential administrations, from George H.W. Bush to George W. Bush, highlighting his adaptability and deep knowledge of foreign affairs. He was particularly noted for his measured, noncombative communication style that helped clarify U.S. foreign policy, making it accessible to the public.
His tenure included significant historical moments, such as the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks in 2001. On that fateful day, he was traveling with Secretary of State Colin Powell in Peru. As they flew back to Washington, Powell informed him that the world had fundamentally changed, underscoring the immense responsibility Boucher bore in his role.
Boucher was highly respected within the State Department, where his colleagues would often pause their work to listen to his daily briefings. R. Nicholas Burns, a former undersecretary of state, remarked on the difficulty of Boucher's job, praising his ability to distill complex issues into clear and understandable terms for the American people.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, Boucher was appointed a career ambassador in 2008, the highest rank a diplomat can achieve. His legacy will be remembered for the clarity and calm he brought to a tumultuous political landscape, shaping the voice of U.S. diplomacy during critical times.
