Barrett, who presented his credentials to the Grand Duke on Thursday, was appointed by US President Joe Biden after serving as Mayor of Milwaukee for 17 years.
In the video, the ambassador revealed his numerous links to Luxembourg.
Barrett’s home state of Wisconsin saw large numbers of Luxembourgish immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and retains its ties to the Grand Duchy.
The Luxembourg American Cultural Society & Center is notably located in Belgium, WI, while the state is also home to the small village of Luxemburg.
Barrett also mentioned another, more personal attachment to Luxembourg. His mother’s first husband was killed serving in the U.S. Army during the Battle of the Bulge in the winter of 1944-45.
The new ambassador reflected on the importance of the historic relationship between the two countries, and underlined his commitment to strengthening economic and political ties.
Thomas Barrett appointed US Ambassador to Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s history: The Battle of the Bulge
Luxembourg’s history: Luxembourgers in the United States
