Joseph Romm

Joseph Romm (November 2, 1920 – April 18, 2008) was an American diplomat, lawyer, and public official, who served as third director of the Office of Civil Defense during the Cold War, and was one of the founders of what is now the National Military Command Center.

Early life Joseph Romm was born on November 2, 1920 in New York City. In 1940, he graduated from City College of New York with majors in mathematics and biology. Romm went on to attend American University, where he received a master's degree in economics.

World War II service Romm enlisted in the United States Army during World War II, and was stationed in the European Theater of Operations as part of the Army Signal Intelligence Division. After Durkee's resignation in 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed Romm as the third director of the Office of Civil Defense. During his tenure, the Office of Emergency Preparedness was established to succeed the Office of Emergency Planning.

He served in the post until January 1969 when Johnson left office.

Death Romm died on April 18, 2008 at the age of 87.

Works

Background of Civil Defense and Current Damage Limiting Studies, 1966