John J. Clune

Who was John J. Clune?

John J. Clune was the long-time Director of Athletics at the United States Air Force Academy. The Clune Arena at the Academy is named in his memory.

A native of Jersey City, New Jersey, Clune graduated from St. Peter's High School where he earned all-state honors in basketball. He was a 1954 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, where he earned All-American honors in basketball, and held scoring records that lasted for 30 years. He earned a master's degree in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California, completed the Armed Forces Staff College in 1959 and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 1972.

His initial assignments were in missile operations, missile maintenance and administration. He served as an Air Officer Commanding at the Air Force Academy from 1965 to 1968. Prior to returning the Academy, he was Chief of the Electronics and Equipment Division, Air Force Logistics Command and Chief of the Logistics Engineering Branch, Headquarters U.S. Air Force.