Richard B. “Dick” Cheney

Richard B. “Dick” Cheney (1941–2025) was an American statesman and business executive whose public-service career spanned more than four decades. He served as the 46th vice president of the United States from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush and as secretary of defense under President George H.W. Bush from 1989 to 1993, overseeing U.S. military operations during the Gulf War. Earlier, he served as White House chief of staff to President Gerald Ford and represented Wyoming for six terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Between his government appointments, Cheney served as chairman and chief executive officer of Halliburton from 1995 to 2000, leading the global energy-services company during a period of significant international expansion. Throughout his career, he played a prominent role in shaping U.S. defense, energy, and national-security policy. He received numerous honors for his public service, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1991.

Cheney was an early advocate for stronger commercial and strategic relations between the United States and Azerbaijan. He served on USACC’s Board of Directors and as chairman of the Chamber before resigning in 2000. As vice president, he visited Baku in 2008 and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Azerbaijan’s security, sovereignty, and role as an important energy partner. His involvement helped elevate USACC’s early work and strengthen American engagement with Azerbaijan and the wider Caspian region.