A True Hero: US Ambassador to Syria

[DKStories]

I've been following the Syrian uprisings from a distance, but have noted repeatedly that our ambassador to that country has been working to make sure the protests against a dictator are being heard, that the world knows what is giong on in that country. Ambassador Robert Ford, appointed ambassador during a recess appointment, has often traveled to peaceful demonstrations knowing that his presence could help prevent obvious and large-scale attacks by government forces.

Here's a single example of what he's done multiple times: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/nat...Zn2H_story.html

He's also been noted as being at odds with the Obama Administration's 'go slow' approach on Syria - pushing for faster and harsher actions against the brutal dictators in power. http://www.tnr.com/article/world/93144/ham...ambassador-ford

As we've watched the "Spring Awakening" of the arab world, the United States has had opportunities to win public relations victories in nations where we have long been the bad guy. Having the US Ambassador in the heart of Hama showing the protestors that we support their right to protest peacefully can have a major impact in the long run. It's also gotten the notice the dictator:

http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8...2082128,00.html

So much attention, tha a pro-government mob attacked his convoy - http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/3...tack-on-convoy/

Ambassador Ford has used his recess appointment to push for ties to these pro-democracy supporters. He's the voice of America, and that voice is right there on the right side (and pushing the administration to take the next step). Instead of being a sinecure for some campaign donor, we actually get to see a U.S. Ambassador doing his job: promoting the interests and welfare of the United States overseas.

Yet, Robert Ford hasn't been confirmed by the United States Senate. He's got the support of Senate Democrats - but Senate Republicans have stalled his nomination like they have stalled the nominations of hundreds of others . Why? Well as Senator McConnell (Republican leader in Senate) has stated, their goal is to make Barack Obama a one-term president. So long as government doesn't work, they believe they can beat him in the election, so they refuse to let government work and refuse to confirm the vast majority of his nominees, including Robert Ford.

[Cole Parker]

Despicable displays of small-mindedness by the Republicans, and the rankest kind of disloyalty to the country they swore to serve. One can only hope the Press continues to make voters aware of these acts disingenuous self-interest.

Disgusting.

Hmmm. I wonder if Ford has any interest in the Presidency? Looks like he’s someone who puts his money where his mouth is. He acts and doesn't just talk. And puts his beliefs ahead of his personal safety. Anyone know a country that could use a little of that right now!

C