Editorial: Brave U.S. diplomats around the world
A security guard walks in front of the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines as it's flag is on half mast following the death of US diplomats in Libya. (Sept. 13, 2012) Credit: AP
190 -- That's the number of independent states worldwide with which the United States has formal diplomatic relations. Hundreds of U.S. flags fly atop embassies, consulates and missions. They're staffed by dedicated career foreign service officers who risk their lives to represent our interests in many troubled locations. As the four Americans killed in Libya are laid to rest -- and while many others are at risk in the latest Mideast turmoil -- we must stay mindful of the need to support and protect those on the front lines of diplomacy.
