James B. Culbertson
James B. Culbertson | |
|---|---|
Official portrait, 2008 | |
| United States Ambassador to the Netherlands | |
| In office July 10, 2008 – January 20, 2009 | |
| President | George W. Bush |
| Preceded by | Roland Arnall |
| Succeeded by | Fay Hartog-Levin |
| Personal details | |
| Born | James Blair Culbertson May 27, 1938 |
| Died | August 29, 2025 (aged 87) |
| Children | 1 |
| Alma mater | The Citadel |
| Occupation | Diplomat, politician, businessman |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch/service | Army |
| Years of service | 1960–1962 |
| Unit | Military Intelligence Corps |
James Blair Culbertson (May 27, 1938 – August 29, 2025) was an American diplomat who served as the United States Ambassador to the Netherlands until 2009. Appointed by President George W. Bush, Culbertson was commissioned as ambassador on July 10, 2008.[1][2] He presented his credentials to Queen Beatrix on August 13, 2008.
Early life and education
Culbertson was born in Goldsboro, North Carolina, on May 27, 1938. In 1960, he graduated from The Citadel with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science. After graduation he served as an Intelligence officer for the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1962.[2]
Private sector career
In 1974, he founded Financial Computing and served as CEO, until his retirement in 2000.[2] Culbertson served on the North Carolina Banking Commission from 1973 to 1979. He also served on the North Carolina Board of Economic Development from 1985 to 1993. From 1988 to 1993, Culbertson was a member of the National Federation of Independent Businessmen. Additionally, he was a member of The Fund for American Studies Board of Trustees, from 1988, as well as a member of the American Battle Monuments Commission, from 2005.
Political career
Culbertson first visited the Netherlands in 1970, as a member of The American Council of Young Political Leaders, serving as a board member from 1973 to 1979.
Culbertson was an active member of the Republican Party for many years, acting as a fundraiser in North Carolina. He served on a number of state and national committees. In 2000, Culbertson was the co-chairman for the North Carolina campaign for George W. Bush's presidency. In 2005, he was one of eight co-chairs for President Bush's inauguration.
Personal life and death
Culbertson's family consisted of his wife, his daughter, and two grandsons.[2] He died at home on August 29, 2025, at the age of 87.[3]
References
- ^ "Personnel Announcement". George W. Bush White House. May 27, 2008. Retrieved April 11, 2025.
- ^ a b c d "Ambassador". U.S. Embassy The Hague. May 27, 2010. Archived from the original on May 27, 2010. Retrieved April 11, 2025.
- ^ "James Blair Culbertson". Salem Funerals & Cremations. Retrieved September 2, 2025.
Sources
- Biography: James B. Culbertson; U.S. Department of State; Archive; August 13, 2008