The Medal of Honor is given to recognize and honor a living SAE member who has made important and significant contributions to SAE by strengthening or adding to SAE's ability to further its purpose.

Robert J. Eaton

Photo: DaimlerChrysler

A member of SAE since 1967, Eaton is a SAE fellow. Eaton has served on the SAE Motor Vehicle Council, as chairman of the Technical Standards Board and as a member of the SAE Board of Directors. As a senior executive, Eaton has promoted SAE and encouraged his staff to participate. He has been a visible advocate for standards harmonization throughout world markets by supporting SAE participation in International Standards Organization (ISO) activities.

Appointed to his present position in November 1998, Eaton oversees all DaimlerChrysler operations. He joined Chrysler in 1992 as vice chairman and chief operating officer. He became chairman and chief executive officer of Chrysler in 1993. Prior to joining Chrysler, Eaton spent 29 years with General Motors in various executive positions. His last assignment with GM was as president, General Motors Europe, in 1988. Eaton is chairman of the National Academy of Engineering. He is also a member of The Business Council, The Business Roundtable and numerous other activities and civic organizations, including the board of Detroit Renaissance. He was recognized as one of the "Michiganians of the Year" in 1998 by The Detroit News for his community revitalization efforts. (Jan. 21, 2000)

see also: Automotive Intelligence Special NAIAS 2000
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