Oral history interview with Barry R. McCaffrey, 2015
Abstract
McCaffrey describes his first encounters with substance abusers in the military during the 1960s and the subsequent pathway to his position as the Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. He discusses the politics of White House agencies and controversies over their respective jurisdictions. He speaks extensively on the nexus of mental health issues and substance abuse, a nd the role of the family in instilling anti-drug values in children. He narrates his own education on the "drug issue," from drug courts to methadone to therapeutic community methods. He gives his impressions of Phoenix House's work amid this discussion. McCaffrey also details the issues surrounding government funding of substance abuse treatment programs. Finally, he discusses the scientific controversies of using medication in treatment for addiction
Generals; Veterans--Mental health services--United States; Veterans--Substance use--United States; Therapeutic communities; Substance abuse--Treatment; Drug courts--United States; Drug abuse--History.--United States; McCaffrey, Barry R; Rosenthal, Mitchell S., 1935-; Reagan, Nancy, 1921-2016; Phoenix House (Organization); United States. Office of National Drug Control Policy
Format
oral histories
Genre
Interviews
Date
2015
Physical Description
55 pages
Note (Biographical)
Barry McCaffrey served in the United States Army for 32 years and retired as a four-star General. At retirement he was the most highly decorated serving General, having been awarded three Purple Heart medals for wounds received in his four combat tour s-as well as twice awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation's second highest award for valor. He also twice was awarded the Silver Star for valor. For five years after leaving the military, Barry McCaffrey served as the nation's Cabinet Officer in charge of U.S. Drug Policy. After leaving government service, Barry McCaffrey served as the Bradley Distinguished Professor of International Security Studies from January 2001 to May 2005; and then as an Adjunct Professor of International Security Studies from May 2005 to December 2010 at the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY
Note
Interviewed by Caitlin Bertin-Mahieux on April 2, 2015
Note (Provenance)
Barry R. McCaffrey, Gift, transferred from Columbia Center for Oral History Research 2016