Ryan C. Crocker. For nearly four decades, Ryan Crocker has advanced our nation's interests and ideals around the world. Embodying the highest principles of the United States Foreign Service, he has cultivated and enhanced our relations with pivotal nations. Following the attacks of September 11th, 2001, he worked to build a worldwide coalition to combat terrorism and help millions of oppressed people travel the path to liberty and democracy. The United States honors Ryan C. Crocker for his courage, his integrity, and his unwavering commitment to strengthening our nation and building a freer and more peaceful world.

Those who have worked (too) long on Iraq issues have come to describe their colleagues who had been in the "Sandbox" too long, have lost all sense of perportion, and generally cause more trouble than not as "ready to receive their Presidential Medal of Freedom and a plane ticket home." AMB Crocker is a quiet American hero who, on receiving the PMF as he retires this week, returns much of the shine to that award and leaves the rest of the foreign policy establishment something to live up to.

EDIT:  Crocker's last interview should be included as a "must read" in the last days of the current Administration.