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CAS3
09-16-03, 01:04 PM
Dr. Leo Mackay Steps Down as VA Deputy Secretary

WASHINGTON (September 15, 2003) - Dr. Leo S. Mackay Jr. announced his
resignation today as the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA), effective September 30.

"Dr. Mackay brought to VA the discipline of the business world and the
compassion of a man who cares deeply for America's veterans," said Secretary
of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "His legacy is a more-focused VA
better able to meet the needs of veterans."

Mackay was confirmed by the Senate on May 24, 2001, for VA's second-highest
post. He oversaw the day-to-day operations of the department, which has a
budget of nearly $60 billion and 224,000 employees.

"VA continues to be recognized inside and outside government as a leader in
integrated health care, research, patient safety and environmental
stewardship," Mackay said.

Among his accomplishments are the establishment of a Joint Executive
Committee with the Department of Defense to coordinate senior-level
policies, strengthening of a "national shrine commitment" to improve VA-run
national cemeteries, and improvements in the department's procurement,
finance and computer-based operations.

"It is with a degree of sadness but an immense pride in the accomplishments
of the Department of Veterans Affairs that I announce my resignation,"
Mackay added. "It has been my sublime honor to serve President Bush,
Secretary Principi - a veteran's veteran - my fellow veterans and America's
citizens."

Mackay has accepted a position with ACS, Inc., of Dallas. The firm provides
business process and information technology outsourcing services. He will
assume a senior executive position in its health care solutions business in
Atlanta.

A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and the Navy's "Top Gun" training
program, Mackay was a vice president of Bell Helicopter Textron before
coming to VA.