The former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff John Shalikashvili died Saturday in Tacoma, Wash. He was 75 years old.

Shalikashvili received his master’s degree from the Elliott School of International Affairs in 1970 and was honored in 2004 with an honorary doctor of public service degree at the University-wide Commencement ceremony.

The Washington Post reported that the Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient died from complications from a stroke.

“With the passing of General John M. Shalikashvili, the United States has lost a genuine soldier-statesman whose extraordinary life represented the promise of America and the limitless possibilities that are open to those who choose to serve it,” President Barack Obama said in a statement.

Shalikashvili, a Polish-born immigrant, was the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the post-Cold War era and was instrumental in pushing the military’s missions past solely armed conflict and defense to include humanitarian efforts.

Before stepping into that role, he commanded NATO and U.S. forces in Europe.

A memorial service will be held in Tacoma Aug. 6, with a funeral at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.