The Foreign Service Journal, January 2006

assignment, which afforded me an opportunity to work with architects, engineers, security officers, communi- cators and interior designers, as well as representatives from other agen- cies. As an AMO, I led survey teams to different countries in search of an ideal location for a new office build- ing. A major problem with the NOB construction program had to do with the amount of time required to go from design to construction. I made a suggestion that was similar to what OBO is now doing — using a Standard Embassy Design. The memo I wrote addressed the savings to be had with a standard design, based primarily on construction and furnishing. Prior postings in Haiti and Santo Domingo showed me that this could work: both posts had the same design for the ambassador’s residence. I believe that because I used the example of Holiday Inns, Marriotts and other hotel chains that were able to build the same buildings, with some changes, all over the world, my suggestion didn’t make it to the head of FBO. But I am very pleased to note that, although it wasn’t accepted at the time, at least the idea is now being followed — albeit fleshed out considerably. Now that FBO has been reorga- nized and renamed OBO, I wonder if AMOs are still as important as they were then. My colleagues and I spent a considerable amount of time on issues other than new build- ings. Renovating, leasing, buying and selling properties consumed a lot of our time, and GSOs in the field depended a great deal on their AMOs concerning real property issues. I remember working on a display L E T T E R S u J A N U A R Y 2 0 0 6 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 9 Fully furnished apartments and single family homes, with large spacious rooms, full sized kitchens, and housewares. Separate living, dining and sleeping areas. Hotel style amenities, including swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, optional maid service and more. Rates within the TDY per diem. Whether you are with the Local, State or Federal Government agency or the military, Crimson offers superior solutions to fit your budget and per diem. Crimson Government Housing Solutions Include: Assignment Changes Evacuations Intern Programs International Visitors Project teams Relocations Short / Long Details TDY Training Crimson offers an exceptional value in temporary housing for government personnel. Our furnished apartments and single- family homes are a spacious and more luxurious alternative to the cramped quarters of a hotel room. 202.986.0433 888.233.7759 info@crimsonworldwide.com www.crimsonworldwide.com