Retirement of General Charles Williams as Director and Chief Operating Officer of Overseas Building Operations

General Charles Williams today announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2007, after a distinguished military career and seven years at the State Department as Director and Chief Operating Officer of Overseas Building Operations (OBO). Under his leadership, the Department has built 56 new embassies and consulates, providing over 15,000 employees with safer, modern facilities.

When she came to the State Department in 2005, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice asked General Williams to stay for two additional years to complete a number of ongoing projects. Three years later he has now decided the time is right to retire. We salute General Williams for his service to our country and wish him all the best in the future.