[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 50 (Friday, April 22, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E743-E744]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO LAWRENCE DUNHAM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 21, 2005

  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor an outstanding State 
Department professional, Lawrence Dunham, as he retires after three 
decades of dedicated government service.
  Mr. Dunham served as Assistant Chief of Protocol for Diplomatic 
Affairs at the State Department and also assumed the position of Acting 
Chief of Protocol when he was designated to manage the transition from 
the Clinton to the Bush administration. He is well-respected by Members 
of Congress from both

[[Page E744]]

sides of the aisle for his expertise, organizational ability, and 
exceptional diplomatic skills.
  During his distinguished career, Larry--as he is known by his 
friends--managed relations with foreign embassies in Washington and 
consulates throughout the United States, handling issues of 
accreditation, privileges and immunities under international law. As a 
senior career officer in the bureau, he resolved sensitive cases 
involving diplomatic immunity, recognition of foreign officials, and 
establishing and breaking relations. He also organized participation of 
foreign government representatives in major national events, leading a 
team which arranged for more than 80 delegations from abroad and 180 
ambassadors representing foreign governments to attend the State 
Funeral of former President Reagan. Mr. Dunham represented the State 
Department on television and radio broadcasts, in meetings with 
Congressional staff, journalists, and as an expert witness. He served 
as a speaker to groups including the International Association of 
Chiefs of Police, National Association of Secretaries of State, 
Smithsonian Associates, spouses of new foreign ambassadors, and 
consular corps throughout the United States. Among the awards he 
received were the Superior Honor Award for outstanding service in 
upholding international legal principles; Meritorious Honor Awards for 
initiative and leadership in monetary conservation and improvement in 
efficiency, and for outstanding managerial skills in restructuring work 
and improving service; the Secretary's Certificate of Recognition; the 
Commanders' Cross, Austria; and the Order of Queen Isabella, Spain.
  A graduate of George Mason University School of Law, Mr. Dunham and 
his lovely wife Deborah reside in Annandale, Virginia. He is being 
honored on Friday, April 22, 2005 at an event at the DACOR-Bacon House 
in Washington, D.C. which will be attended by a number of ambassadors 
representing nations which he has assisted during his career.
  Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues here in the U.S. House of 
Representatives join me in congratulating Larry Dunham on his 
retirement and in expressing our appreciation for his many years of 
exemplary service to our Nation.

                          ____________________