KUDOS TO EMBASSY DAMASCUS

UNCLAS STATE 116211 SIPDIS FROM A/S WELCH TO CHARGE D'AFFAIRES CONNELLY E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: APER AMGT SY SUBJECT: KUDOS TO EMBASSY DAMASCUS Maura, I want to thank you and the Embassy Damascus team for your extraordinary work during these challenging days. The Mission's professionalism and dedication throughout this stressful and dynamic period have been truly outstanding. I specifically want to acknowledge Embassy reporting which captured events as they unfolded on the ground; Post's detailed responses to questions about the American Cultural Center, the American Language Center, and the Damascus Community School; and Post's efforts to assist American citizens, especially as anti-American rhetoric increased on the Syrian street. Embassy Damascus' efforts to protect United States interests, property and personnel have been truly commendable. We appreciate all you have done and stand ready to support you in the challenging days that come. Best, David RICE