THANK YOU FOR TDY OF ARSO PHIL SIMS

UNCLAS DILI 000311 SIPDIS MANILA FOR DCM AND RSO STATE FOR DS/IP E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ASEC AMGT TT SUBJECT: THANK YOU FOR TDY OF ARSO PHIL SIMS ¶1. Embassy Dili extends its sincere thanks to Embassy Manila for the November 4 - December 13 TDY of ASRO Phil Sims. He ably managed the heavy routine workload of our one-man RSO shop, which includes managing our 74-man local guard force and extensive coordination and information-sharing with the National Police, other Embassies, and the United Nations mission. Shortly after his arrival, he met with the Australian Deputy Chief of Mission and security officer. At the request of the UN Police Mission, he provided guidance in the case of two third-country nationals detained at the airport for bringing counterfeit U.S. currency into the country. He followed up on this issue with relevant U.S. Secret Service authorities. ¶2. During his five-week deployment, Phil also met several exceptional security challenges. He implemented arrangements for several representational events involving VIPs. The most notable of these was our Election Day party, which was an all-day event on the scale of our Fourth of July reception. There also an ongoing access issue in connection with work on the compound by a landscaping and construction crew. ¶3. Phil deserves special commendation for his firm leadership of our local guard force. He conducted several training programs for the LGF, including on personnel screening, access control, vehicle inspection, and professional responsibilities . Following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, he briefed the LGF on relevant lessons learned. In response to concerns raised by the Ambassador, he reviewed and improved our screening procedures for VIP guests. ¶4. Phil also responded quickly and effectively to an emergency outside Dili in which an American citizen was involved in a car accident, then attacked and injured by a machete-wielding local man. Phil, working with the consular officer, immediately took charge of the situation. He followed up with the victim of the incident and with the local authorities. He also deal effectively with another vehicle incident involving another US mission employee. ¶5. Phil is highly motivated, a true team player, a strong leader, and a pleasure to work with. Embassy Dili greatly appreciates his collegiality and willingness to accept the personal sacrifice associated with this lengthy TDY in a 35 percent hardship post. We would gladly welcome him back. KLEMM