Richard Helms

Richard Helms was a prominent American intelligence officer who served as the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) from 1966 to 1973. He played a significant role during the Cold War, overseeing various covert operations and intelligence gathering efforts. Helms is known for his emphasis on intelligence professionalism and for managing sensitive programs, though his tenure also faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the CIA's involvement in controversial activities like the Vietnam War and the overthrow of foreign governments. After leaving the CIA, he faced legal challenges but remained influential in national security circles until his death in 2002.