ADST Memoirs and Occasional Paper Series
From Foggy Bottom to Capitol Hill
Exploits of a GI, Diplomat, and Congressional Aide
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by John
Chapman Chester, Sr. ( Arlington, Va.: Arlington Hall Press, 2000)
"In a witty and reader-friendly style, this book provides valuable
insights into a professional life divided between two branches of
our government. It is recommended reading for everyone interested
in public service.
John Chapman "Chips" Chester offers up an often whimsical but highly informative memoir of an active life in international affairs. His exploits cover U.S. Army service in occupied Germany; a career in the U.S. Foreign Service in Germany, Croatia, Malawi, and the State Department; and a second career on Capitol Hill as a foreign affairs specialist, first for an outspoken liberal Republican representative and then, serving both parties, for the House Foreign Affairs (aka International Relations) Committee. Chips Chester's book, like his life, is a buoyant mix of diplomacy, congressional politics, and high good humor.
"While at first blush it may appear that this
book was written by someone unable to hold a job for long, that proves
not to be the case. Or more precisely put, Chips Chester's hegira from
the military to the Foreign Service to congressional staffs has left him
with many good stories to tell. And they are tales with much humor, substantial
insight into our diplomatic and political systems, and a graceful writing
style. I knew the author best as a very good FSO; now I know him, as well,
as a fine writer." "Chips Chester has written a lively, humorous,
and highly readable account of what really goes on behind the diplomatic
and congressional scenes. As one who shared the author's experience in
Yugoslavia and also served both in Foggy Bottom and on Capitol Hill, I
can personally confirm that this book accurately and perceptively depicts
life in all three places."
486 pp, appendices, index
Paperback $20.00
DAVID DREIER, Chairman, Committee on Rules, U.S. House of Representatives::
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