US Ambassador Thomas Barrett;
Credit: Chronicle.lu
On Thursday 28 June 2023, the US Embassy in Luxembourg hosted an Independence Day Reception in advance of the actual day, Tuesday 4 July 2023, when the embassy will be closed.
Around 330 guests attended the event which celebrated the 274th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, including other countries' ambassadors and diplomatic corps, business leaders and representatives of civil society. Luxembourg's government was represented by the Minister of Finance, Yuriko Backes.
Following the colour guard presented by the US Marines and the singing a cappella of both the US and Luxembourgish national anthems (by a church choir from Vianden), the US Ambassador, Thomas M. Barrett, addressed the invited guests. He said that he was honoured to have everyone attend and celebrate the independence which is as relevant today as it was 274 years ago. He recollected that the US was founded on an idea that we are all created equal; and today we reflect that ideal of freedom of equality.
He said that there are 5,070 young Americans buried close by, in the US military cemetery in Hamm. Today we are facing similar threats to freedom that they faced. He mentioned that this year, 120 years of diplomatic relations between Luxembourg and the US is being celebrated. He said that Luxembourg embraces the same ideals as the US. He said that the US and Europe have reacted to the act of terror by Russia by invading Ukraine by implementing sanctions and providing aid.
He also mentioned Luxembourg's work in the satellite area and also referenced the committee to education in Luxembourg where the US wants to work together. He also mentioned that the US has made mistakes, but acknowledges them.
The two-hour reception then got into full swing, with hot dogs, mini mac and cheese portions, popcorn, tacos and mini burgers, then mini apple pies, fruit crumble, water melon wedges and ice cream, with Luxembourgish crémant and cider from Ramborn.
