"America's Diplomats," a documentary screening narrated by Kathleen Turner, to be shown at Gerald R. Ford Museum

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum and the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan present a program “America’s Diplomats,” a documentary film screening hosted by Ambassador Ronald Neumann, the President of the American Academy of Diplomacy in Washington, D.C. and a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State.  This film, narrated by Kathleen Turner, explores the role of diplomats in shaping America’s past and present, beginning with Benjamin Franklin, considered America’s first diplomat. 

Dixie Anderson, executive director of the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan, said, “An event shedding light on the nature of foreign service could not be timelier as recent diplomatic attacks in Iran, Lebanon, Kenya, and Tanzania showcase the danger to those who serve. Yet, their service is so necessary in a world increasingly connected by trade and travel and challenged by global problems such as terrorism which no one nation can solve alone.”

“Diplomacy under extraordinary circumstances is a legacy of President Ford that we are particularly proud of here at the museum. This special program on American diplomats highlights diplomacy as the key to continued American success abroad,” said Elaine Didier, director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.

The Wednesday, June 15 program is from 5:45 to 7:15 p.m., with a reception honoring local retired Foreign Service staff immediately following.  The event is at the newly re-opened Gerald R. Ford Museum, located at 303 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI. The public is invited to attend this free event. No reservations are needed and free parking is available at the museum.

The event is sponsored by the American Academy of Diplomacy, with additional support provided by the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies at Grand Valley State University.

Attempts are being made to contact all retired Foreign Service officers and staff in western Michigan so they may be honored at the reception.  Anyone who is former Foreign Service or knows of someone who has served may call the World Affairs office at 616-776-1721 or send an email to [email protected].

More info on the film: From Ben Franklin to Benghazi, America's Diplomats takes you inside the Foreign Service and behind the scenes of U.S. Foreign Policy. Discover the role our diplomats play in shaping American history. Uncover the origins of our Foreign Service, and the danger American diplomats face far from home. Watch the film's trailer here.