Diane Sawyer to Interview Donald Rumsfeld in His First Television Interview Since 2006

Jan. 6, 2011— -- In an ABC News exclusive, Diane Sawyer talks to former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld in his first television interview since leaving public service in November 2006.

Donald Rumsfeld has been a pivotal figure in recent American history. As Secretary of Defense on 9/11, Rumsfeld played a critical role in the war on terror, including the combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

He has been at the center of some of the most passionately debated issues of our time and Sawyer explores his take on those subjects during their in-depth conversation. Viewers will gain new insight into the inner workings of the Bush administration as well as the personal life experiences that shaped Rumsfeld: from growing up as a child of the Depression to becoming both the youngest and oldest Defense Secretary in American history.

Sawyer's interview will begin airing on "World News" on Monday, February 7. Portions of the interview will also air on "Nightline" and "Good Morning America."

In another ABC News exclusive, George Stephanopoulos will have the first live television interview with Rumsfeld on "Good Morning America" on Tuesday, February 8.

The interviews will coincide with the release of Rumsfeld's highly anticipated memoir, "Known and Unknown," which draws upon hundreds of previously classified and never before released documents.

ABCNews.com will launch a special webpage featuring content from "Known and Unknown" and links to key documents.