Rear Adm. Stephen Rochon (Ret.) (Courtesy Photo)
By AFRO Staff
(December 30, 2008) - Retired Rear Admiral Stephen W. Rochon, formerly with the United States Coast Guard, will be one of the first people to greet the Obama family when they arrive at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. in January. Rochon is director of the executive residence and chief usher of the White House, according to USBE Magazine.
He is the first African American to hold the position.
Rochon manages the day-to-day operations of the White House, an expansive 132-room mansion with a $13-million plus budget and staff of more than 90 people. Appointed to the position in 2007 by President Bush, Rochon administers the building’s operations, maintenance and utilities and ensures the execution of ceremonial events of the president and first lady.
A Louisiana native and graduate of Xavier University and the National Defense University, Rochon has earned the Coast Guard Distinguished Medal and three Legion of Merit medals.