The Heritage Foundation has released a statement following the death of Richard V. "Dick" Allen, who passed away on November 16, 2024, at the age of 88. Allen was known for his significant contributions to foreign affairs and national security policy. He co-founded the Asian Studies Center at The Heritage Foundation in 1982 after joining as a Distinguished Fellow.
Allen's career included serving as National Security Advisor to President Ronald Reagan and as an assistant to the National Security Advisor under President Richard Nixon. He held both B.A. and M.A. degrees from the University of Notre Dame.
Dr. Edwin J. Feulner, Founder of The Heritage Foundation and Chairman of the Asian Studies Center Advisory Council, remarked on Allen's contributions: “During the Reagan years, Dick and I worked closely together in establishing Heritage's Asian Studies Center to keep America’s national interest in Asia alive in the post-Vietnam War era." Feulner added that Allen's commitment to their shared principles remained strong throughout his life.
Victoria Coates, Vice President of the Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy at Heritage, also expressed her condolences: “Heritage mourns the loss of a great American patriot. Dick’s vision and leadership expanded Heritage’s foreign policy and national security influence."
Allen is remembered for his dedication to public service and his impact on national security discussions.
