July 4th Reception and Celebration!

On the 26th of June, the US Embassy hosted the annual July 4th Reception and Celebration at the Ambassador's home. The preparations for the event took weeks and the team that organized it did an incredible job. It began with the set-up and was followed by the receiving of guests. 

As the guests began to trickle in, they were invited to grab food or a drink before going into the Ambassador's house to be greeted by her. Not only was the Ambassador there to welcome guests, but so too was our Deputy Chief of Mission and our Defense Attaché.

Many important people came through to welcome the Ambassador and her team. As part of my job, I was lucky enough to stand behind the Ambassador to relieve her hands of any gifts that she might receive so that she may continue shaking hands. Being in this position, I was able to see each guest as they came through and give them each a smile.

After the guests were all welcomed, the Ambassador gave a speech to welcome the Lithuanian guests and their family and friends to the reception. We watched at our Marines presented the American colors before listening to the Lithuanian anthem and then the American Star Spangled Banner.

As the party continued, we were able to mingle with guests and I was incredibly grateful to meet former President Adamkus. We talked about his life in America, the Foreign Service career, and some defense topics. It was a great honor for me to meet President Adamkus during this event, who is very nice and open to meeting all Embassy staff and hearing their stories. Not only is he admirable, but he is very friendly as well!

After the party was completed, all Embassy staff pitched in to clean up the Ambassador's home before enjoying burgers and chips for a very...very late lunch. It was great to be able to spend an hour with my coworkers enjoying the warm Lithuanian day and American style burgers. It was a great starter to celebrating the actual 4th of July and the birth of our great country!