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<p><em>Paul David Mango</em> was born February 1, 1959 in Albany, NY to Nancy and Norman Mango. Growing up in a loving home with siblings Peter, Donna, Robert, and David, Paul excelled in academics, sports (varsity pitcher and basketball player), and friendships. Entering West Point in 1977 from Liverpool High School, Paul was fit, focused, and ready for the challenges ahead. Paul easily adapted to the physical aspects of cadet life, excelling in physical and military training and playing on the West Point Baseball Team his first two years. Paul also took to academics with zeal and drive. A quick and disciplined learner, Paul mastered subjects with ease. Paul was a great teammate to classmates, ready to contribute, help those in need, lend an ear, or give welcome encouragement or advice. </p>
<p>Paul’s companymates remember his poise, maturity, humility, wry wit, “million-dollar” smile, and natural magnetism that attracted others. In addition to being a “flawless cadet,” he was a “great human being.” His future leadership skills were already on display.</p>
<p>Paul competed for Army Ranger School between his yearling and cow years and graduated along with a select group of classmates who became bonded for life through the experience. In addition to the distinguishing Ranger Tab that Paul earned, Paul was also a Star Man, finishing in the top five percent of his class each year and graduating as a distinguished cadet. This led to Paul receiving his diploma from newly elected President Reagan. A staunch conservative, Paul was an early supporter of candidate Ronald Reagan, advocating the need for all to register to vote and support a platform focused on improved national defense. Ever socially and politically aware, Paul was blessed with foresight. </p>
<p>Even more importantly, Paul met his soulmate, Dawn Rucker, Class of 1982. Dawn herself was an exceptional cadet and person, joining USMA’s third class of women and excelling despite the challenges associated with an institution still in transition.</p>
<p>Paul selected Field Artillery and earned an assignment to the 82nd Airborne Division for his first posting. A year later he and Dawn married in Florida and headed to Germany for joint assignment in the 8th Infantry Division. </p>
<p>Following mandatory service, Paul resigned his commission and gained admittance to Harvard Business School. He completed his MBA in 1988, graduating as a Baker Scholar, once again in the top five percent. Paul was hired by McKinsey & Company and moved with Dawn to Pittsburgh, PA. </p>
<p>For nearly three decades Paul worked as a management consultant in the health sector, quickly becoming a director leading McKinsey’s fast-growing U.S. and global health care practices. Paul never forgot his Academy roots. He maintained close friendships with former classmates, continued to live the West Point motto of “Duty, Honor, Country,” was active in class projects, and became a generous donor for the West Point Association of Graduates.</p>
<p>Following years of leadership experience in health care and the private sector, Paul entered the public arena running as a candidate for governor, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Although unsuccessful, Paul caught the eye of the GOP and was tapped by the first Trump administration to become principal deputy administrator for Medicare and Medicaid Services from 2018 to 2019 and later deputy chief of staff for policy at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from 2019 to 2021. </p>
<p>While at HHS, Paul was the department’s lead agent for Operation Warp Speed, promoting the record-breaking development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and medicines. Paul’s book, Warp Speed: Inside the Operation That Beat COVID, the Critics, and the Odds, was published in 2022 and chronicled the national effort to counter the deadly pandemic at the speed of need, saving millions of lives.</p>
<p>Following public service, Paul pursued a variety of endeavors. He was the founding CEO of Longitude Health, an organization established by four major nonprofits to pioneer next generation health care. He served as an advisor for Paragon Health Institute, a leading industry think tank. And Paul was on the HHS transition team for Trump’s second administration.</p>
<p>Despite a demanding consulting career, a political campaign, then public service in the capital—all with constant travel—Paul always found the time for family. Paul supported his wife, Dawn, in her own post-graduate and business endeavors and together in raising and nurturing five daughters (Amelia, Hope [USMA 2014], Reed, Charlotte, and Eve) in a home characterized by love, mutual support, and stability. Paul’s colleagues remember the joy in Paul’s face when he played with his daughters and when he talked about his wife and family. Paul’s daughters remember a father who created the conditions for them to dream without limits and who provided the loving support to achieve those dreams. These women are Paul’s true legacy.</p>
<p>Paul died peacefully at his home in Jackson, WY on January 16, 2025. He left us too soon, but with an enduring example of a life well led and wonderful memories. Colleagues and friends from throughout his careers describe Paul’s intelligence, penchant for service, leadership skills, belief in America, and especially his kindness and generosity in investing in the success of others. Paul lived a positive and impactful life, touching and mentoring many, role modeling service and love of nation. He was a force of nature, a servant leader, and a source of inspiration. </p>
<p>Inurned in the West Point Cemetery, Paul will forever be a part of our hearts and the Long Gray Line. “Strength as One ’81!”</p>
<p><em>— Gordon B. “Skip” Davis Jr., Classmate, Roommate, Ranger Buddy</em></p>
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