The EADS North America Board of Directors has confirmed the board appointment of Ike Skelton, who most recently served for 34 years as a U.S. Representative from Missouri. Skelton’s Congressional career culminated in the role of chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, in which capacity he served from 2007 to 2011.

“Ike Skelton has a distinguished record of service to our nation, especially in support of the men and women of our military,” said Ralph Crosby, Chairman of EADS North America. “His patriotism and leadership will be tremendous assets for EADS North America as we continue seeking to bring innovative, best-value solutions to the U.S. military in support of its missions.”

Prior to his seventeen terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, Skelton served for six years as a Missouri state senator, beginning in 1971. Having begun his career in the field of law, he served in private practice and as a prosecuting attorney in Lafayette County, Mo., followed by three years in the role of Special Assistant to the Missouri Attorney General.

A lifelong native of Lexington, Mo., Skelton earned an Associate of Arts degree from Wentworth Military Academy and College in 1951 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Missouri in 1953 and 1956, respectively. He is the recipient of 14 honorary master’s and doctorate degrees and more than 60 awards and tributes.

About EADS North America
EADS North America is the North American operation of EADS, a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services. As a leader in all sectors of defense and homeland security, EADS North America and its parent company, EADS, contribute over $11 billion to the U.S. economy annually and support more than 200,000 American jobs through its network of suppliers and services. Operating in 17 states, EADS North America offers a broad array of advanced solutions to its customers in the commercial, homeland security, aerospace and defense markets.

About EADS
EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services. In 2009, the Group – comprising Airbus, Astrium, Cassidian and Eurocopter – generated revenues of € 42.8 billion and employed a workforce of more than 119,000.