George Curtis Moore
Diplomat who reopened America's embassy in Sudan and led it as chargé d'affaires; killed in Khartoum in 1973 at a reception held in his honor.
Service Record
| Born | September 7, 1925 |
|---|---|
| Principal Officer, U.S. Interests Section, Khartoum | From July 1969 |
| Chargé d'affaires ad interim, U.S. Embassy Khartoum | From July 25, 1972 |
| Died | March 2, 1973, Khartoum, Sudan |
| Interment | Arlington National Cemetery |
Overview
George Curtis Moore led American diplomacy in Sudan through one of its most delicate periods and was preparing to hand the embassy over to a new ambassador when he was killed.
Khartoum
In July 1969, with formal diplomatic relations between the United States and Sudan suspended, he was assigned as principal officer of the U.S. Interests Section in Khartoum. When the embassy reopened on July 25, 1972, he became chargé d'affaires ad interim, leading the mission until Ambassador Cleo Noel arrived to take charge.
Sacrifice
On March 1, 1973, Black September militants stormed the Saudi Arabian embassy in Khartoum during a farewell reception held for Moore as he prepared to depart. He was taken hostage with Ambassador Noel and Belgian diplomat Guy Eid. All three were killed the next day.
Legacy
He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. His career is a reminder that some of the most important diplomatic work is done quietly, by officers who keep a door open between governments when the official relationship has broken down.
Recognition
Envoys of Record honors George Curtis Moore among the members of the Foreign Service who gave their lives in the service of the United States. Their names are kept here so that their service is not forgotten.