C. Everett Koop Dies

Former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop died this week at age 96. Koop, known as much for his work as SG as for his trademark beard and glasses, served under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, from 1982-89.

Koop was one of the most high-profile Surgeon Generals in history, and was instrumental in educating the public at large on issues of HIV and AIDS. He was also anti-cigarette, and spoke out for a "smoke-free" society at a time before public smoking bans.

C. Everett Koop dies having received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995. The Brooklyn native leaves behind a wife, three children and eight grandchildren.