Chuck Feeney: I was with a special services unit in the Korean War, and when I got out, the biggest thing I got was a GI scholarship.
The “Luck of the Irish” concept could be attributed to Chuck Feeney’s success, or perhaps it is simply a result of his strong American work ethic.
Born in New Jersey on April 23, 1931, amidst the challenges of the Great Depression, Feeney, a proud Irish-American, would become one of the most affluent and philanthropic individuals of the 21st century.
Faith Shaping Philanthropy
As a lifelong member of the Catholic Church, Chuck Feeney often credits his charitable spirit to his education at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic High School during his formative years. At 17, Chuck joined the U.S. Air Force in 1948.
Duty-Free Ventures Amidst Military Service
He served as a U.S. Air Force Operator stationed in Japan and Korea during the Korean War. During this time, Feeney began selling duty-free items like liquor. He also sells cigars to U.S. sailors and naval officers at Mediterranean ports.
Chuck Feeney Established Global Duty-Free Ventures
After leaving the Air Force, Feeney pursued higher education at Cornell University with the assistance of the G.I. Bill.
In the 1960s, he partnered with his friend Robert Miller to establish companies that sold duty-free items to airports worldwide.
They focused on high-end American luxury goods, including cars, designer clothing, purses, and tobacco. They also focused on liquor, which garnered immense success in Europe, Asia, and Hawaii.
Business Success and Philanthropic Impact
By the 1990s, Feeney and his partners generated nearly $300 million in annual sales from duty-free ventures. As his business flourished, Feeney felt compelled to make a difference through philanthropy, which led to the establishment of The Atlantic Philanthropies in 1984.
Feeney’s charitable contributions have been extensive, benefiting his high school, Cornell University, public health initiatives in Asia with a particular focus on Vietnam, and various Irish universities.
Social Change and Admirable Recognition
He has played a significant role in funding the peace process in Northern Ireland, advocating against the juvenile death penalty. Furthermore, it provided medication for millions affected by HIV/AIDS in South Africa and ensured health insurance coverage for millions of children in the United States.
Often referred to as “The James Bond of Philanthropy,” Feeney’s financial gifts rank among the highest of any living U.S. citizen. Warren Buffet regards Feeney as a hero, stating, “Chuck has set an example…he is my hero and Bill Gates’s hero. He should be everybody’s hero.”
Legacy of Giving
Feeney has committed to donating his entire fortune before his passing. He believes there is no better use of wealth than to give while still alive. He personally dedicates himself to meaningful efforts that improve the human condition.
Feeney recognizes the urgency of addressing today’s pressing needs as intelligent philanthropic support. He also believes positive interventions can have a more significant impact now than if they are delayed until the needs become even greater.
Wrapping Up
Chuck Feeney’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most influential philanthropists of the 21st century exemplifies the power of dedication, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose.
From his education at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic High School to his service in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, Feeney’s experiences shaped his commitment to making a difference in the world.
Feeney achieved tremendous success by establishing global duty-free ventures and amassing substantial wealth.
However, his true fulfillment came from using his fortune to create a lasting impact on society. The Atlantic Philanthropies, founded in 1984, became the vehicle through which Feeney channeled his resources toward causes close to his heart.
