U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia Daniel Rubinstein departed his post this week in preparation for retirement. But before leaving the country, he insisted that his final stop be North Africa American Cemetery. As a strong supporter of the cemetery and the ABMC mission since he became U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia in 2015, Rubinstein wanted to walk the grounds one more time and personally thank the team. “Ambassador Rubinstein has been a great friend and supporter of this cemetery and the ABMC,” said North Africa American Cemetery Superintendent Ryan Blum. “He will be greatly missed by all.”

Rubinstein shook hands with every person on staff, and spent time alone reflecting in the chapel. He chose the visitor center as the symbolic location to sign his transfer of authority—officially marking the end of his tenure as ambassador. Before leaving, he signed the guest book and wrote: “Keep this sacred place for all of us and Tunisia.”