Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

While the Washington Post’s recent move to its “newsroom of the future” has made its share of headlines, the grand opening of the modern, collaborative space was eclipsed today by the sight of Jason Rezaian, and special guests who acknowledged his return home.

Earlier this month, Rezaian was released from a Tehran jail after spending 18 months in captivity. In a speech at The Post’s grand opening ceremony this morning, Rezaian thanked those who helped to secure his freedom including The Post’s leadership and lawyers, as well as his wife, mother, and brother.

Rezaian said he was truly fortunate for the opportunity to thank Secretary of State John Kerry, who attended the ceremony, because he “negotiated with the Iranians for my release… and constantly advocated on my behalf within the U.S. government. No other country would do so much for an ordinary citizen, and I know that,” he said.

In his remarks, Kerry told the audience the most sacred pledge in the military: “you can never leave a buddy behind,” The Post reported. Like most pledges, he continued, “It’s a lot easier to say than to do, no matter how great the effort.”

Mayor Muriel Bowser also attended the ceremony, congratulating the Washington Post for over a century of service in the media and acknowledging Rezaian’s return.

Filed Under: Jason Rezaian, journalist, reporter, washington post,