Former U.S. Surgeon General C. Everett Koop dies at 96
Helped public understand dangers of smoking
Dr. C. Everett Koop, the medical professional given credit for playing a major role in changing public attitudes about smoking, died yesterday at his home in Hanover, N.H. at the age of 96.
Koop, a pediatric surgeon, was appointed to the post by President Ronald Reagan in 1981 and served until 1989. A descendant of 17th century Dutch settlers, Koop grew up in Brooklyn, NY.