| |  U.S. Postage Stamps Commemorate Distinguished American Diplomats The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is releasing a series of six commemorative stamps honoring "Distinguished American Diplomats" at the World Philatelic Exhibition at the Washington, DC Convention Center on May 30, 2006. The six diplomats were chosen for their contributions to international relations, not only as negotiators and administrators, but also as trailblazers, shapers of policy, peacemakers, and humanitarians. Read more below, and get additional information from the U.S. Postal Service .
Remarks by Secretary Rice
 |
While serving as a diplomat in France during World War II, Hiram Bingham IV defied official U.S. policy by issuing visas that saved the lives of more than 2,000 Jews and other refugees. more |
 |
Charles E. Bohlen, a renowned expert on the Soviet Union, helped to shape foreign policy during World War II and the Cold War. He was present at key wartime meetings with the Soviets, and served as Ambassador in Moscow during the 1950s. more |
 |
Philip C. Habib used his diplomatic skills in some of the world's most dangerous flash points. Habib was an authority on Southeast Asia, a peace negotiator in the Middle East, and a special envoy to Central America. more |
 |
Robert D. Murphy, a skilled troubleshooter, played a key role in facilitating the Allied invasion of North Africa during World War II, and later served as Ambassador to Japan and Under Secretary of State. more |
 |
Clifton R. Wharton, Sr., the first African American Foreign Service Officer, was also the first African American diplomat to lead an American mission to a European country (Romania). He became an ambassador by rising through the ranks, rather than by political appointment. more |
 |
Frances E. Willis was the first female Foreign Service Officer to rise through the ranks to become an ambassador, and the first woman to be named a Career Ambassador. more |
| |
