The evening began with a stunning aerial display, symbolizing the robust U.S.-German partnership. Ambassador Gutmann, visibly moved, praised the collaboration between the German Luftwaffe and the U.S. Air Force, highlighting the shared achievements of the two nations. "This year," she noted, "we commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and the Berlin International Airshow, all underlining Germany's commitment to national and Alliance defense."

Ambassador Gutmann extended a warm welcome to an illustrious gathering that included diplomats, members of the German government, business leaders, and cultural figures. She humorously acknowledged the early celebration of America's 248th birthday, quipping, "When you're 248 years old, seven days is just a blink of an eye."

She also took a moment to express her gratitude to the American Academy and its president, Daniel Benjamin, calling it a "key partner" in fostering the U.S.-German relationship. The evening was supported by various sponsors, whose contributions were acknowledged by the Ambassador with enthusiasm.

As she nears the end of her tenure, Ambassador Gutmann reflected on her personal connection to Germany, sharing the poignant story of her father, Kurt Gutmann, a German-Jewish refugee who fled Nazi persecution. "My father instilled in me the importance of standing up against antisemitism and all forms of hatred," she said, recalling her recent visit to her father's hometown in Bavaria.

Her time as Ambassador, she noted, was marked by significant achievements, including the united U.S.-German response to Russia's aggression in Ukraine and a strong stance against Hamas's attacks on Israeli civilians. "We will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes. Slava Ukraini!" she declared, reaffirming the enduring commitment of both nations.

Ambassador Gutmann also highlighted her efforts to promote social justice and human rights during her ambassadorship. She emphasized the importance of people-to-people diplomacy, having engaged with countless individuals across Germany in events ranging from film festivals to international sports competitions. Her "Stand Up and Speak Out" initiative, aimed at combating antisemitism and hate, became a cornerstone of her legacy.

As the evening drew to a close, Ambassador Gutmann expressed her deep appreciation for her team at the U.S. Embassy and her Deputy Chief of Mission, Clark Price, who also will be departing in July. She assured the audience that the U.S.-German relationship would remain in capable hands under the leadership of her successor, Alan Meltzer.

In her final remarks, she invited everyone to join her in celebrating Independence Day, not just with words, but with the exuberance that the occasion deserves. "Let's get loud!" she exclaimed, as fireworks lit up the Berlin sky, marking the end of a memorable evening and the close of a significant chapter in U.S.-German relations.

• https://de.usembassy.gov/ambassador-gutmanns-independence-day-remarks-2024/ https://de.usembassy.gov/ambassador-gutmanns-independence-day-remarks-2024/