Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan and Chris Van Hollen marked the 100th anniversary of the United States Foreign Service, commemorating its establishment on May 24, 1924, through the Rogers Act. This act consolidated the Diplomatic and Consular Services into a unified entity, playing a crucial role in U.S. diplomacy since then.

Earlier this month, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Senators Sullivan and Van Hollen to recognize Foreign Service Day on May 3. The resolution honors those who have served or are currently serving in the Foreign Service and pays tribute to members who have lost their lives while on duty.

Senator Sullivan stated, "America’s Foreign Service officers are tasked with promoting America’s interests, strengthening national security, and assisting U.S. citizens in the far corners of the globe... Today, we salute the courageous, dedicated members of the United States Foreign Service."

Senator Van Hollen added that these officers "play a critical role on the front lines of our diplomatic missions – sometimes at great personal risk." He emphasized ongoing support for Foreign Service families through initiatives like their bipartisan Foreign Service Families Act.

Tom Yazdgerdi, president of the American Foreign Service Association, remarked on the dedication of Foreign Service members: "Their work may not always be known or make headlines, but it’s foundational to building partnerships that help protect Americans overseas."

The U.S. Foreign Service employs nearly 16,000 personnel along with over 60,000 locally-engaged staff across almost 300 embassies and consulates worldwide. These employees are part of various government agencies including the Department of State and USAID.

In 2017, Senators Van Hollen and Sullivan established the bipartisan Senate Foreign Service Caucus to address challenges faced by service members globally. Their efforts led to passing legislation like the Foreign Service Families Act within the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), providing expanded career options for family members akin to military families.