The Late Years

A man unselfishly dedicated to human welfare and law enforcement; a public servant of sterling character and integrity; an administrator of demonstrated superb ability; a diplomat of great distinction and international renown; and a valued and true friend of pharmacy.

–Delta Kappa Sigma Alumni Association, 1958 Merit Award

In 1959, Anslinger received Pennsylvania State University’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, the highest honor given to alumni.

Not long after, President John F. Kennedy appointed Anslinger and Henry Giordanon Anslinger’s deputy at the Federal Bureau of Narcotics to be America’s representatives when the U.N. met to establish one single international treaty to control the production of specific drugs under license. 

This convention, amended twice over the years, is still in effect today with 195 signatory countries.

In 1962, Anslinger reached the age for mandatory retirement from federal employment. Upon leaving his post, the citizens of Blair County held a “Harry J. Anslinger Day” event in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, on August 8, 1962. There was a picnic, testimonials by local, state, and national dignitaries, and a plaque unveiled to be hung in the lobby of the County Courthouse.

In a letter nearly three years later, newly elected Senator Robert Kennedy thanked Anslinger, recognized his efforts for international drug control, and asked for advice. Anslinger and Robert Kennedy had known each other for many years, bonding over investigations of the mafia.

Even though he retired Anslinger continued to serve the nation, working on treaties and efforts to control international drug trafficking. Ocassionally he appeared on television to share his perspective. In a 1968 interview, when asked to justify penalties for marijuana when alcohol also contributes to traffic fatalities, Anslinger responded, “Why condone a second hazard?”