The Executive Residence at the White House Usher’s Office is headed by the Chief Usher with a staff of 92 career federal employees that are responsible for the White House as:  (1) the home of the President of the United States, his family, and their guests; (2) the site, both in the Residence and on its eighteen acres of historic grounds, of Official and Ceremonial events and activities of the Presidency; and (3) a historic museum of American history visited by over one million visitors each year with a priceless collection of American antiques and Presidential artifacts known as “The White House Fine and Decorative American Arts Collections”.

The Executive Residence budget of approximately twelve million dollars for the operation, maintenance, refurbishment, utilities, and Presidential events is developed and administered by the Chief Usher.  The Residence staff selected and supervised by the Chief Usher is comprised of an administrative staff and the following general categories of employees:  housekeeping, maintenance, mechanical operations, food and beverage preparation and service, curators, calligraphers, and florists.

The Chief Usher has a unique position that requires him to interact with the President, the First Lady, their family, and their staffs on a daily basis.

Gary Walters has served as Chief Usher since being appointed by President Reagan in 1986.  He served as Assistant Usher from 1976-1986 after initially being appointed by President Ford.  Mr. Walters was a member of the Executive Protective Service (Uniformed Division), United States Secret Service from 1970-1975.  He is a graduate of the University of Maryland and served from 1970-1975 in the United States Army.