Thank you all for coming. As one of the new kids on the block, I’ve been very grateful for the warm welcome Curtis and I have received from everyone here in Canberra and around Australia. I’m also grateful for the very useful advice I’ve gotten about how to be an Ambassador. I’m also learning the ... Read More»

It is an honor to be here with you all tonight. Curtis and I are really enjoying the concert. Music is one of the things that builds bridges between peoples, between cultures and countries. It’s one of those things that is universally understood, no matter where you were raised. I was reading an article the ... Read More»

The Honorable Stuart Robert, Assistant Minister for Defence, and Mrs. Chantelle Robert; Major General Gus Gilmore, Deputy Chief of Army, Representing the Chief of the Defence Force, and Mrs. Lisa Gilmore; Lieutenant General John E. Wissler, Commanding General III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Mrs. Sue Wissler; Mr. John T. Poirier; Distinguished guests; Ladies and Gentlemen; ... Read More»

It’s always good to be back in Melbourne.  This city has special significance to me. This was where I came for my first official trip outside of Canberra after my arrival.  This was also where my father came for his R&R after he fought at Guadalcanal.  His stories about Australia led to my lifelong appreciation ... Read More»

I’m honored to be here today. Thank you to the staff and leadership of the Centre for opening your doors to the Canberra community. At the White House Iftar dinner last year, President Obama said: “Whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see its results.” Clearly, there are more than a few atoms’ worth ... Read More»