Major General Lee A. Downer retired from the U.S. Air Force in July 1997 as Director of Operations, Air Combat Command. There, he planned and directed the day-to-day flying program for 1,050 military aircraft in and outside the continental United States. He led a staff of 800 to support worldwide operational and training activities and nurtured two critical new missions into the organization. One to exploit and employ Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, the other to pioneer the operational use of information warfare concepts.

From 1992-1994, Gen. Downer was Director of Operations, United States Air Forces Europe, where he provided direction and resources to two successful humanitarian efforts in Northern Iraq and Bosnia.

From 1991-1992, as Brigadier General, he was Deputy Chief of Staff Operations, 2nd Allied Tactical Air Force where he led the team that insured air support and resupply to critical command elements on the ground when NATO prepared to take a role in peace-making and humanitarian missions in Bosnia.From 1990-1991, as Brigadier General, Lee Downer was Inspector General, United States Air Forces Europe. From1988-1990, as Colonel, he was Commander of the 20th Fighter Wing, Upper Heyford, England.

From 1964-1988, Lee Downer held various Operational and Airstaff assignments. He is a fighter pilot with over 3,500 hours in F-4, F-111 and F-16 aircraft and has combat experience in Viet Nam and Desert Storm.

Today, Gen. Downer works as a consultant in diversified, defense related areas as an associate for Cypress International. Gen. Downer is engaged in the development of advanced air defense displays and planning systems, air training areas and information warfare.