The Swearing-in Ceremony of the new United States Ambassador

to the Republic of Croatia, Robert A. Bradtke, at the US State Department

Dear Crown readers,

I want to share with you that this past Monday, July 3, the NFCA was honored to attend the Swearing-in Ceremony of the new United States Ambassador to the Republic of Croatia, Robert A. Bradtke, at the US State Department. Steve Rukavina, Zvonko Labas, and I were invited by Mr. Bradtke himself, whom we had met with just last month to discuss the role of the NFCA in US-Croatia relations. Notably, officiating at this ceremony was
US Secretary of State, Condolezza Rice, who was very positive about her trust in the new Ambassador. Also in attendance were Croatian Ambassador to the United States, Neven Jurica, and several key members of his staff.

While Mr. Bradtke's wife was not able to attend due to her own official US duties, his family did accompany him, including his 93 year-old father who was proud to hold the Bible on which his son took the oath of office. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Bradtke took time to address Ambassador Jurica in the
Croatian language, one of several which he speaks. The ceremony took place in the Treaty Room adjacent to Secretary Rice's office. The limited number of  invited guests were then able to join a receiving line to congratulate Mr. Bradtke and wish him well in his new assignment.

Ambassador Bradtke reaffirmed to us the important role he sees the NFCA and the Croatian American community performing on behalf of Croatia as she proceeds in joining Trans-Atlantic institutions. This was a historic event during our own American Independence celebration period and the three of us were pleased to represent all of you at this special time.

Sincerely, Ed Andrus, President/NFCA

www.nfcaonline.com