Debra Burlingame

Debra Burlingame

Debra Burlingame is an American attorney, political activist, and former television producer, widely recognized for her advocacy on national security issues following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Born in 1954 in Saint Paul, Minnesota, she is the sister of Charles F. “Chic” Burlingame III, the pilot of American Airlines Flight 77, which was hijacked and crashed into the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks.

Burlingame’s early life was marked by frequent relocations due to her father’s service in the United States Air Force, with time spent in California and England. She earned her undergraduate degree from New York University and later obtained her Juris Doctor from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. Before embarking on her legal career, she worked as a flight attendant for Trans World Airlines. Subsequently, she served as a television producer at Court TV for five years.

The loss of her brother on 9/11 profoundly influenced Burlingame’s trajectory, steering her towards national security advocacy. She co-founded 9/11 Families for a Safe and Strong America, an organization dedicated to promoting policies aimed at preventing future terrorist attacks. Additionally, in collaboration with Liz Cheney and William Kristol, she established Keep America Safe, focusing on raising awareness about critical national security issues.

Burlingame has been an active voice in public discourse, testifying before Congress on aviation security matters and contributing opinion pieces to national publications, including The Wall Street Journal. Her writings and speeches often emphasize the importance of robust national defense measures and the need for vigilance against threats to U.S. security.

In recognition of her efforts, Burlingame serves on the board of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum Foundation, playing a pivotal role in preserving the memory of the victims and educating the public about the events of that day.

Throughout her advocacy, Burlingame has been a prominent figure in debates surrounding national security and civil liberties, often engaging in discussions about the balance between individual rights and collective safety. Her perspectives have sparked both support and criticism, reflecting the complex nature of post-9/11 security policies.

Debra Burlingame’s journey from personal tragedy to national advocacy underscores her commitment to ensuring that the lessons of September 11 continue to inform U.S. security policies. Her work remains a testament to the enduring impact of that day on individuals and the nation as a whole.

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