Uncle Sam drafts diplomats for embassy in Iraq« Thread Start

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Uncle Sam drafts diplomats for embassy in Iraq« Thread Started on Oct 26, 2007, 10:56pm » --------------------------------------------------------------------------------Uncle Sam drafts diplomats for embassy in read at source> http://edition.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/10 ... WASHINGTON (AP) -- The State Department said Friday it will require some diplomats to serve in Iraq because of a lack of volunteers willing to work at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad. "Uncle Sam" stands over a cake at the U.S. embassy dining hall in the Green Zone in September.Beginning Monday, 200 to 300 diplomats will be notified they have been identified as prime candidates to fill 40 to 50 vacancies that will open next year at the embassy, said Harry Thomas, director general of the Foreign Service.Those notified they have been selected for a one-year posting will have 10 days to respond. Only those with compelling reasons, such as a medical condition, will be excused from duty, Thomas said.He said those being sent to Iraq will receive extra pay and vacation time. About 50 diplomats will be needed in Iraq by January, in addition to the current level of 200.However, those refusing Iraq duty may face disciplinary action up to and including dismissal for failing to uphold their oath to serve the United States and the Constitution, Thomas said.