By Dustin Senger
Area Support Group Qatar
CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar – Joseph Evan LeBaron, recently sworn in as ambassador to the state of Qatar, joined U.S. service members and civilians serving at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, to honor Patriot Day, Sept. 11, 2008. The 7th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the United States marked the ambassador's first observance at the U.S. military installation, since assuming his duties at the embassy on, July 18, 2008.
Camp As Sayliyah hosts numerous tenant units supporting the Global War on Terrorism. Furthermore, it is the only authorized respite venue for U.S. Central Command war fighters in Southwest Asia.
"My wife, Ellie, and I are delighted to have arrived in Qatar, where it will be my honor to represent the American people and the U.S. government." said LeBaron, in a press conference announcing his appointment. "We began our diplomatic career here in Doha, more than 25 years ago, and we look forward to re-discovering this beautiful country and its people. I also look forward to supporting the thousands of Americans living in Qatar as they work to strengthen the bonds between our countries people."
LeBaron joined the U.S. Foreign Service in 1980, after earning his doctorate in Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University. His first assignment was vice consul at the U.S. embassy in Qatar. Most recently, he served as the U.S. ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania.
"It's great to see you back after your 20-year hiatus," said U.S. Army Col. David G. Cotter, Area Support Group Qatar and installation commander, prior to the remembrance ceremony. "Welcome to Camp As Sayliyah and welcome back to Qatar."
The ambiance of the Patriot Day observance was set after a loud rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner." The national anthem was followed by a chaplain's invocation, a message from the installation commander, the president's proclamation and an official wreath laying – a tribute to the lives lost on, Sept. 11, 2001. The ceremony closed with a moment of silence, leading into taps and the retiring of the national ensign.
Date Taken: | 09.11.2008 |
Date Posted: | 09.11.2008 11:37 |
Story ID: | 23509 |
Location: | CAMP AS SALIYAH, QA |
Web Views: | 198 |
Downloads: | 183 |
This work, New ambassador to Qatar honors 9/11 with troops, by Dustin Senger, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.