Program archives

Thomas Twetten retired from the Central Intelligence Agency in 1995, after serving thirty-four years in its clandestine services. Mr. Twetten rose through the Agency's ranks to become the Deputy Director for Operations, a position commanding the nation's overseas clandestine intelligence collection. Mr. Twetten spent the majority of his career in Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. In 1983 he began five years of leadership in the CIA Near East Division. He worked closely with Washington Congressional and Executive branch leadership, and with a wide range of other governments, to forge a united front in support of the Afghan people. After courageous sacrifices by the Afghans, this effort led to the Soviet decision to quit Afghanistan, ending nearly ten years of brutal occupation. In recognition of his leadership, DCI William Webster picked him to become the deputy of the clandestine service. For nearly six years he was the deputy or the Chief of CIA clandestine operations. During this period Mr. Twetten boldly redirected intelligence resources in support of new democracies in Eastern Europe, supported a coalition of allied forces in the Gulf War following Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait, and placed new emphasis on fighting international narcotics trafficking, terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. For his development and leadership of new strategies, Mr. Twetten was twice awarded the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the Agency's highest honor. A native of Iowa, Mr. Twetten received his bachelors degree from Iowa State University, and a masters degree in international affairs from Columbia University. He served as a lieutenant in Germany with the U.S. Army. He has retired to Vermont with his wife Kay where he is bookbinder and dealer in antiquarian books.