The Foreign Service Journal, September 2005

F O C U S 26 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 5 Where the Rubber Hits the Road Physical Security. Until com- paratively recently, the Foreign Service dealt with terrorism and other security threats on the “retail” level, focusing on murders and assassinations of individual diplo- matic officials by groups such as the November 17th Greek terrorist group. Tactics for countering such terrorists were likewise individual: varied daily routines, carefully selected housing and day-to-day personal alertness. Modern terrorism, however, requires a collective response in addition to individual vigilance. The results have been the most visible manifestation of security: concrete flowerpot barriers; closed streets; ubiq- uitous police patrols; and embassies constructed or remodeled/upgraded with safety as a first concern. Separate from DS but closely related, the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (formerly the Office of Foreign Building Opera- tions) was renamed when upgrad- ed to bureau status in early 2001. Once noted for its selection of archi- tects who created aesthetic master- piece embassies, it now focuses on security. OBO is led by former Army Major General Charles Williams, who has pushed OBO into more sophisticated manage- ment and performance evaluation techniques. The long starvation diet endured by embassies and consulates has been reversed; by late 2003, OBO was managing $4 billion in projects, but longer-term projections of costs run to $17 billion to replace and fortify existing facilities. A variety of mech- anisms are being used to focus on the most vulnerable The Embassy Plan Overseas Insurance Personal Auto & Contents Coverage Experience that helps you avoid the pitfalls of a highly complex business. Repeat business that results from providing what’s best for the customer not the agent nor the insurance company. Since 1969, Harry M. Jannette International has provided dependable coverage with U.S. carriers with a financial rating of A+ or higher to thousands of Foreign Service Personnel worldwide. Thus you gain the broadest U.S. terms and conditions and flexible value limits often not available from other insurance carriers. MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED: SEE OUR WEBSITE APPLICATIONS Harry M. Jannette International, L.L.C. 8111 LBJ Freeway, Suite 585 Dallas, Texas 75251-1334 Toll Free (800) 256-5141 (972) 783-4915 Fax (972) 783-0545 E-mail: hmjintl@jannetteintl.com www.jannetteintl.com • WORLDWIDE COVERAGE Fire, theft, comprehensive and collision protection are available at foreign posts. • U.S. AUTO LIABILITY Available for short term on home leave, change of assignment, and new auto purchase prior to foreign departure. This coverage must be issued in combination with an “Embassy Plan” policy. • FOREIGN LIABILITY Contact your post for compliance with local laws, Excess liability limits are available over local liability coverage. • PERSONAL COVERAGE Household goods and transit, valuable articles, personal liability, life insurance . • EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATION INSURANCE Employee association insurance Including directors and officers. Your Reliable Choice Until comparatively recently, the Foreign Service dealt with terrorism and other security threats on the “retail” level.