Leadership

MN BCA Adopts Leadership Book

2012-01-19T21:11:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has adopted the leadership book I co-authored for use in their Supervision and Management Couse. You can find out more about the course here:

https://sps.x.state.mn.us/cjte/Shared%20Documents/DisplayManagement.aspx?Page=11&CertificatePrograms

You can find out more about the book http://www.pokerleadership.com

Additionally, I will be one of their keynote speakers at the February leadership conference, you can find out more about that conference here:

https://sps.x.state.mn.us/cjte/Lists/Announcements/DispForm.aspx?ID=85

St. Louis Top Stories: Community Leadership

2012-01-18T16:19:00.000-08:00

FBI Surprises Local Executive with Award

ST. LOUIS—At a surprise ceremony today, the FBI presented its Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) to Mr. Anthony Thompson, president and CEO of Kwame Building Group, in front of students he mentors at Mel Carnahan High School of the Future.

Every year, each FBI field office across the country selects only one recipient within its jurisdiction for this prestigious award. FBI Director Robert Mueller, III will personally present the award to each recipient at a national ceremony at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. on March 16, 2012.

Thomas R. Metz, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI St. Louis Division, presents award to Anthony Thompson.

The DCLA was created in 1990 as the principle means for the FBI to honor individuals or organizations for their efforts in combating crime, terrorism, drugs, and violence to help keep America and its kids safe. Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas R. Metz of the FBI St. Louis Division said, “Giving back to the community is inherent to Mr. Thompson. He not only serves as a respected role model to young people, he is committed to helping them realize their potential from elementary school all the way through college and at the professional level.”

Mr. Thompson once said, “Steel sharpens steel and men sharpen men. The only way someone will know how to be a good man is to see one.” That’s why he helped establish the “Gentlemen’s Club,” a mentoring program at Carnahan to inspire young men to be gentlemen and leaders. Mr. Thompson and his employees mentor the students at Carnahan every other Wednesday. They haven’t missed one session since Mr. Thompson helped establish the “Gentlemen’s Club” seven years ago.

Mr. Thompson takes time to mentor the students despite his busy schedule as the president and CEO of Kwame Building Group. His company, a construction management firm, has offices in eight states and is headquartered in St. Louis. When he founded Kwame Building Group, Mr. Thompson wanted to provide opportunities for growth, development, and leadership to young professionals in the construction industry. Seventy percent of employees at Kwame are minorities.

To remove any barriers to college, the Kwame Foundation funds $60,000 to $90,000 a year in college scholarships to improve educational opportunities for minorities and first generation college students. The foundation has been funding college scholarships for eight years.

In 2010, Mr. Thompson’s family experienced a tragedy when his brother was shot and killed by a teenager in a random robbery. Instead of withdrawing, the family opened their arms even wider. Through the Kwame Foundation, Mr. Thompson established the Tyrone Thompson Institute for Nonviolence. The institute honors his brother, who also dedicated his life to advocating non-violence and being a role model for young men. The institute has volunteer mentors in five schools with hopes of expanding to all elementary and middle schools in St. Louis. The mentors help suspended students learn non-violence skills and work on materials they are missing by being out of school.

Developing Leaders is ‘Job One,’ Dempsey Tells ROTC Cadets

2012-01-15T12:09:00.000-08:00

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

DURHAM, N.C. – Service equities, the U.S. relationship with Iran and Pakistan, and the future of women in combat topped the questions put to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff at a town hall meeting here yesterday with ROTC cadets.

Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey spoke to 400 tri-service cadets from Duke University, the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Central University, St. Augustine College and Meredith College.

ROTC is a college-based officer-commissioning program that focuses on military leadership development, problem solving, strategic planning and professional ethics.

“Think about leader development as job No. 1 and you’re off to a good start,” the chairman told his audience.

Faced with a dynamic between the two world wars that is similar to the Pentagon’s transitional situation today, Army Gen. George C. Marshall invested most heavily in leader development, Dempsey said.

“He knew that if he had the right leaders, once things clarified he’d call upon them to get it right, and that’s what we’ve got to do,” he added. “It’s about leader development. That’s the biggest lesson we’ve learned.”

The chairman stood alone on the stage. He made the cadets laugh, told them stories and showed them a fast-moving music video of warfighters at work that boomed with the heavy-metal song “Indestructible” by the Chicago band Disturbed.

He reassured them that they had not missed their chance to test themselves on the fields of battle.

“You can see Iraq and Afghanistan stabilizing a bit as you sit there wondering what it means for you,” Dempsey said. “[But] your country, I would suggest, needs you more than ever now to get us through [this] period of transition.”

One cadet asked about complaints that Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan had been doing the same jobs as soldiers. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James F. Amos has a “great vision” for a lighter, more austere Marine Corps that fundamentally establishes expeditionary capability as its core competency, the chairman said.

The Army lays claim to being both expeditionary and of campaign quality -- meaning they go and stay until the mission is over, Dempsey said. “And I think the distinction is important,” he added, “because here’s the truth: as joint forces, we really can’t do without each other.”

The individual service cultures are a great strength of the joint force, just as diversity is a great strength of the nation, he said. But enemies over the past decade have decentralized, syndicated to work together, networked to improve communication, and gone global, the general noted.

“To defeat a network we have to be a network, so one of the things we’re talking about in our emerging defense strategy is the next document that will be published, which is the Capstone Concept for Joint Operations,” the chairman said.

The title, he added, may refer to a global networked approach to warfare because even the conventional force has adapted. “It’s decentralized, it’s networked, and it’s syndicated with a lot of different partners,” he said.

If the Defense Department accepts the challenge to take a global networked approach between now and 2020, Dempsey said, “I think you’ll see each of the services change its organizing principles and … operating concepts to become networked.”

“I think the nation will be well served by that,” he added, “and we can be a little smaller and pull it off.”

In response to a question about the U.S. relationship with Iran, the chairman acknowledged it’s a difficult problem. “We haven’t yet fully grasped the complexity of the issues, … and that’s where I’m spending most of my time,” he said.

On U.S. dealings with Pakistan, Dempsey said his close personal relationship with that nation’s army chief, Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, is helping to get the two nations’ militaries through recent rocky relations brought on in part by the tragic deaths of 24 Pakistani soldiers during a November NATO air attack.

Dempsey and Kayani, who once were classmates at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., spoke earlier this week about a U.S. Central Command report on the investigation of the attack.

“When things are most heated in the relationship,” the chairman said, “we have the ability to engage each other on the basis of a personal relationship.”

Another cadet asked about the status of a change in the rules that keep women from serving in combat. Removing such restrictions is a two-step process, Dempsey said.

“I’ll use the Army as an example,” Dempsey said. “If you are a military intelligence analyst, there are some restrictions about where you can serve in the battlefield. For example, you can’t be on a military training team.

“That is completely ludicrous,” he continued, “because that’s not the kind of battlefield on which we operate. It’s not linear; it is circular -- 360 [degrees]. We’re going to knock that out of the way, so if you’re a female soldier, sailor, airman or Marine, you serve where you’re needed.”

The second step is the more challenging one, he added, not just because of military rules but because the issue has attracted congressional interest. It involves lifting a ban on women serving in direct ground combat units -- tanks, artillery and infantry.

“I personally believe that on my watch … I think that will begin to change. … It’ll change on your watch, for sure, if it doesn’t change on mine,” the chairman told the cadets. “And I think we’ll be better for it.”

FBI Salt Lake City Honors Blackfeet Housing with Prestigious Award

2012-01-11T16:51:00.000-08:00

Pikanii Action Team Receives Director’s Community Leadership Award for Making a Difference in Montana

Special Agent In Charge David J. Johnson of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office congratulates Blackfeet Housing’s Pikanii Action Team in Montana for being selected to receive the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. “The Pikanii Action Team was chosen for this special honor because of its important contributions toward reducing binge drinking and drunk driving in Montana, especially among young people on the Blackfeet Reservation,” said Mr. Johnson. “The FBI is grateful for the Pikanii Action Team’s efforts to pinpoint problems related to alcohol consumption and then jumping into action to successfully address the issues.”

First, the team analyzed data and conducted surveys to better understand the issue and then implemented several initiatives to address alcohol-related incidents among youth on the Blackfeet Reservation. The team determined their efforts should be focused in the communities of Browning, Seville, and Heart Butte, Montana. Among other issues, the group addressed responsible alcohol sales by vendors, a social host law prohibiting the sale of alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, and supported increased compliance checks by a DUI Task Force. The team organized public forums, youth activities, and sponsored a billboard campaign to enhance community awareness about the dangers associated with irresponsible alcohol consumption. One roadside billboard, which read “Drinking and Driving Lead to Empty Lodges,” could be seen by drivers as they entered Browning.

The Pikanii Action Team is comprised of seven people. According to team leader Dorothy Still Smoking, Ed.D., each member contributed greatly to the team’s success, and being recognized by the FBI is evidence that their efforts left a lasting impression on the community. “Receiving the FBI’s Community Leadership Award has deep meaning,” said Dr. Still Smoking. “It also reminds me our work has just begun, and that we should always be mindful of what it takes to provide an environment where alcohol is not easily accessible to youth. To accomplish this, we must continue to work together.” Although the grant money for the campaign was exhausted in 2011, Dr. Still Smoking believes law enforcement, tribal entities, and parents can continue to play a critical role in reducing alcohol consumption by minors by reminding young members of the tribe to make wise choices and educating them about the consequences of irresponsible actions. According to statistics reported by the Pikanii Action Team, tribal members of all ages are heeding the team’s message. In 2009 there were 484 DUI violations recorded on the Blackfeet Reservation, compared to 199 in 2010.

In recognition of the group’s accomplishments, the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office will present the Pikanii Action Team with a certificate of appreciation. As a recipient of the Director’s Community Leadership Award, the Pikanii Action Team will also be honored by the FBI at an upcoming event scheduled for this spring in Washington D.C.

The Director’s Community Leadership Award is one way FBI special agents in charge thank individuals or organizations for their tremendous efforts. Created in 1990, this special award is presented on behalf of the Director of the FBI to honor individuals and organizations, such as the Pikanii Action Team, for their contributions to our communities. To learn more about current and past award recipients, please visit FBI.gov.

Little Rock Field Office Presents the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award for 2011 to Kathy Manis Findley

2012-01-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

Kathy Findley is a tireless advocate for abused women and children. She has devoted her life to promoting nonviolence and helping survivors of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse achieve physical and mental well-being. That devotion led her to founding in 2002 the charitable, nonprofit organization called Safe Places: The Center for Healing and Hope with only a $3,000 grant.

Findley has dedicated her life to helping children and young adults from abusive environments. The organization she founded, Safe Places (www.safeplaceslr.org), provides support to those who suffer from the physical and emotional effects of violence and provides violence prevention education throughout the community. The mission statement of Safe Places best describes Findley’s life dream—“To create communities where every child is protected, every home is a safe place, and where every person can live free from violence.” Today, Safe Places offers to our community professionally trained staff who can provide a variety of services to victims of violence and abuse, as well as training for parents, other community professionals, and organizations. Some of their services include: 24-hour crisis intervention and supportive services for victims of violence and abuse; advocacy, intervention, education, and traumafocused therapy for child victims of violence; specialized trauma counseling for families experiencing violence or abuse; therapeutic interventions through specialized victim impact statements designed to help children and adolescents deal with the effects of being a victim of violent crime; immediate crisis intervention; long-term child and family advocacy, etc. These are just a few of the types of programs Safe Places provides at no cost to victims of violence and abuse. She and her organization have willingly assisted the FBI and other law enforcement agencies throughout the state in providing counseling and other support services to victims of violence.

Findley holds advanced certification in victim assistance from the Joint Center on Violence and Victim Studies. She is trained as a child forensic interviewer through the American Prosecutors Research Institute’s National Child Protection Training Center.

Findley was selected by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society as the Arkansas Honoree for the 2008 Above and Beyond Citizen Honors, called the most prestigious civilian award in America. She was named the 2009 Arkansas Business Nonprofit Executive of the Year for her work with Safe Places and was featured in the High Profile section of the Arkansas Democrat Gazette on October 24, 2010. She was selected as one of the two Arkansans to receive a $50,000 grant by the Foundation for the MidSouth that considers candidates from the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

Findley currently serves on the board of directors of the American Society of Victimology and the National Advisory Council of the Joint Center on Violence and Victim Studies, and was appointed by Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe to serve on the Arkansas State Council for Interstate Juvenile Supervision. She was appointed by the City of Little Rock Board of Directors to serve on the Little Rock Commission on Domestic Violence and has served as its chairperson for three terms. She has also served on the Little Rock Commission on Children, Youth, and Families as the commissioner for issues related to domestic violence. She is a trainer for the Arkansas Victim Assistance Academy at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She served as the first president of the Crime Victims Assistance Association of Arkansas and served two terms as president of the Arkansas Coalition Against Sexual Assault.

Findley is the author of two books—Voices of Our Sisters and the Survivor’s Voice: Healing the Invisible Wounds of Violence and Abuse—as well as numerous publications.

She is committed to making her community better and actively participates in city, state, and national initiatives.

Based on her compassionate vision, her tireless dedication to this community and its defenseless victims, and her accomplishments in a field that often goes unrecognized, Special Agent in Charge Valerie Parlave and the employees of the Little Rock Field Office are proud to present the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award to Kathy Findley.

Below 100

2012-01-11T09:11:00.001-08:00

Introduction
It has been a while since I have put fingers to keep board, but I thought this an important article/material to draft. I recently attended a training which was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota the training vendor was the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center- Rural Policing Institute. The training was focuses towards Rural Police Officer Safety. There were three instructor John Bostain, Brian Willis and Mike Sumeracki. The training focused on W.I.N. (Whats Important Now), Warrior Spirit/Mind Set/ LEOKA and Below 100 . The training was attended by over 50 police officers from five states. This training was important for a variety of reasons.

Whats Important Now:
This training sessions was taught by Brian Willis, he is a retired police supervisor from Canada. He focused on the Warrior Spirit/Winning Mind Set and the principle of W.I.N. For officers and individuals that are not aware of what this "lifestyle" change movement is about is empowering officers to think about what is important, to focus on safety, to keep ones mind thinking about the choices and how to succeed in the moments in the day,weekly, and yearly. This training was well received by the audience and to be blunt this was something that most Minnesota Police Officers have not heard and or been familiar with. Mr. Willis, is a quality trainer/instructor and presenter. He provided clarity, and advice to the students (officers) in attendance.

LEOKA
Mike Sumeracki presented on LEOKA, they research behind the hows/whys and whens police officers get killed and injured in the line of duty. However this important to understand that the assault/ attempted murder might occur on the first call of the day or a rookie officer, or the last call of the day for an officer who is retiring. The one thing that appeared to be the undertones of the message, dealt with complacency and officers to keep fresh, current on both skills, techniques and the law.

Below 100
Below 100 was a training that Mr. Willis and John Bostain co-taught. The concept dealt with a initiative that brought out of a dinner at ILEETA. The initiative is simply- we as a law enforcement society must remember to these five tenants- slow down, buckle up, wear your vest, W.I.N and complacency kills. To me this was the most powerful session of the day. Mr. Willis and Mr. Bostain spoke from the heart about a variety of inspirationaland tragic stories. The main focal point or learning point, take aways was we as culture need to change, we as a culture are our own worst enemy.

Conclusion
First and foremost this training was brought forth by the funding from the United States Congress. Although we do not bring enough attention to the funding sources, we need to recognize these efforts to protect US (law enforcement officers). Second I thought we need to thank FLETC-RPI for bringing quality training to law enforcement officers, third and certainly not least is the three trainers who presented to the class. Finally and the most important is the officers who attended the training because they are a visionary, forward thinking and willing to think outside of the box and change the paradigm.

Navy’s Stockdale Winners – In Their Own Words

2012-01-05T16:52:00.000-08:00

The Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale Leadership Awards, named for the Medal of Honor recipient who epitomized the very essence of leadership during his nearly eight years as a POW in North Vietnam. During that time, Stockdale relied upon his five, self-defined roles of leadership – moralist, jurist, teacher, steward and philosopher – to help himself and a group of about 11 others, survive the camp. The award is presented to only two naval leaders annually and, most importantly, they are only in the running if nominated by their peers. The below remarks are from this year’s winners Cmdr. Robb Chadwick and Cmdr Gerald Miranda. These two fleet leaders were recognized as Sailors who best represent the five roles of leadership that Stockdale displayed-Chadwick for his performance as Commanding Officer, USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), and Miranda for his performance as Commanding Officer, USS Asheville (SSN 758).

Chadwick on leadership and the significance of this award:

“I am extremely honored to receive the Vice Adm. James Bond Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership. Admiral Stockdale’s heroic conduct in the harshest of environments will forever stand as an example for our Navy and I am humbled to be associated with his legacy in any way. To be nominated by my peers, for whom I have so much respect, also makes this award very special.

Although this award is being presented to me, I truly view it as a unit award and I share it with the Officers, Chiefs and crew of USS Roosevelt (DDG 80). They were my source of inspiration. It was an honor and a privilege to serve as their commanding officer and it is because of their professionalism and dedication that I am being recognized in this way.

A leader should provide clear guidance and trust his or her subordinates to execute the mission. Stockdale wrote, “As strange as it sounds, great leaders gain authority by giving it away.” My trust was rewarded with command achievements that highlighted the remarkable capabilities of United States Navy Sailors that have been proven throughout our history.”

Miranda’s leadership lesson from his time as XO:

“So here’s a little story about trust and developing a young officer’s confidence: we were getting underway one morning and an hour before we were to set sail, the captain was nowhere to be found. Now I called every number I had and still the captain could not be reached. As XO, the crew turned to me and asked, “What do we do?” I said continue with underway preparations and get the ship ready to sail. Now secretly, I was worried sick and debated on when to call the squadron to let them know my captain was MIA. So up the bridge I went to bring on the tugs and get the main engines ready. The officer of the deck asked me, “Are we really getting underway without the captain?” With confidence, I said, “you worry about the ship; the CO is on his way.” Of course, I could only hope this was the case.

Well, about 30 minutes before casting off lines, here comes the captain walking down the pier with a big smile and a confident and cheerful gait. I see him from the bridge and quickly meet him in his stateroom. Before I could ask any questions, he looks at me and says, “XO, report the status of the ship being ready to get underway on time?” I said, “Yes, but,” before I could get another word out, he said “Very well, Captain to the bridge.” Later that day he brought me in to his stateroom because he knew I had some questions regarding “his late arrival.” He simply smiled and said, “XO, I decided to spend the morning eating breakfast with my wife – I knew you’d have the ship ready so I turned off my phone.” His confidence in me taught me a valuable lesson for command: Do what you think is right and make a decision because you won’t always have someone to ask. This lesson has served me well.”

The 2011 Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale Leadership Awards will be presented Jan. 5 at 9:30 a.m. in the Pentagon hall of heroes by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert.

Columbus Global Academy Receives FBI Award

2011-12-23T11:25:00.001-08:00

Edward J. Hanko, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Cincinnati Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), announced today that the Columbus Global Academy has been named as the recipient of the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award.

The Columbus Global Academy is a unique English as a Second Language (ESL) school for recent immigrant and refugee students who have limited English abilities. A part of the Columbus City School District, the school currently serves 136 middle school students and 336 high school students from ages 11-22. Students at the Columbus Global Academy are from over 50 different countries and represent 35 native languages. The largest single group of students at the school is from Somalia, while Spanish (representing several countries) is the most common native language.

Many of the students at the Columbus Global Academy have recently arrived in the United States from refugee camps or countries torn apart by war, famine or natural disasters. Though the students often have little formal education and face many challenges, the faculty and staff at the Columbus Global Academy work hard to create a positive learning environment. Mrs. Kimberly Normand, the Principal at the Columbus Global Academy, and Dr. Brenda Custodio, the Assistant Principal, have led the staff as they help students to dramatically improve in their academic studies, while also empowering them to be successful members of the community.

Mrs. Normand, Dr. Custodio and the teachers at the Columbus Global Academy have also welcomed the Cincinnati FBI as a partner with the school. The Division has worked with students in an effort to strengthen relations with local ethnic communities in central Ohio and to mentor at-risk youth who may be more vulnerable to radicalization, gang membership or other unlawful activity.

For the past two years, the Cincinnati Division has held an FBI Teen Academy at the school. Students have learned about the work of Special Agents, seen evidence response and recovery techniques, learned about online safety and viewed a SWAT presentation. FBI employees and their families have also volunteered at the Columbus Global Academy, participated in Career Day presentations and served on the school’s Community Advisory Council to develop academic and extracurricular opportunities for the students.

Principal Kimberly Normand recently accepted the Director’s Community Leadership Award from SAC Hanko on behalf of the school. A formal ceremony at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 16, 2012.

FBI Honors Local Somali American with the Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-22T21:03:00.001-08:00

The FBI’s Portland Division has awarded Musse Olol the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award for his many years of work and dedication in Oregon. Mr. Olol is the chairman and spokesperson for the Somali American Council of Oregon (SACOO). In this role, he has been instrumental in organizing and leading efforts within the Somali community to promote public understanding and collaboration. Specifically, he has focused on developing positive relationships between the Somali community and law enforcement. Mr. Olol is also known for his work as a volunteer in assisting new Somali refugee families as an interpreter, facilitator, counselor, and co-sponsor.

“Mr. Olol has worked to empower Somali families,” said Greg Fowler, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “His efforts have paved the way for these new immigrants to have strong, positive relationships with the wider community that we all share.”

“It is quite an honor to receive this level of recognition and we are humbled by it,” said Mr. Olol. “SACOO members were called in to fill the leadership void of our community. This award further strengthens our commitment to our community to achieve an environment of unity and hope that will lead to successful citizens.”

Each year, every FBI field office honors one person or organization with this award for outstanding contributions to their community through service. Mr. Olol will travel to Washington, D.C., in March 2012 to be personally recognized by FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III.

Mr. Olol has lived in Oregon for 30 years, and he graduated from Portland State University with a degree in mechanical engineering. He currently works in the field of water and wastewater engineering. To find out more information about the Somali American Council of Oregon, go to http://sacoo.org/.

FBI 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-19T17:35:00.000-08:00

Christopher M. Piehota, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Buffalo Field Office, has selected Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Joseph M. Tripi, Western District of New York, to receive the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA). SAC Piehota will present the commemorative award locally on Monday, December 19, 2011, at 11:00 a.m., at the FBI’s Buffalo Office.

The FBI initiated the DCLA in 1990 to honor those who provide civil rights education and put forth efforts to combat crime. It is presented annually on behalf of its Director, Robert S. Mueller, III. Every year, FBI field offices across the country select individuals or organizations—one per office—to receive the DCLA. The criteria for the award includes achievements in combating terrorism, cyber crime, and illegal drugs, gangs, and other crimes; or violence prevention/education efforts that have had a tremendous positive impact on communities. The recipients include dedicated groups of people and organizations that have collectively enhanced the lives of thousands of individuals and families and helped to protect communities around the United States.

A Buffalo native, AUSA Tripi graduated from St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, Canisius College and the University at Buffalo Law School. He joined the USAO in Buffalo in January 2008 following four years as an Assistant District Attorney in Nassau County. Following an assignment in the Narcotics and Violent Crimes Division, AUSA Tripi currently works in the USAO’s National Security Division, which oversees all federal gang prosecutions. AUSA Tripi’s primary prosecutive work is centered on the investigations of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force (SSTF).

The FBI specifically recognizes AUSA Tripi’s work on the 10th Street and 7th Street gang prosecutions. For the past 20 years, members of these gangs committed acts of murder, attempted murder, robbery and assault, narcotics violations, firearms offenses, and witness intimidation. AUSA Tripi’s perseverance and commitment lead to the indictment of 35 10th and 7th Street gang members on a variety of RICO, narcotics, and weapons violations. AUSA Tripi is also the lead prosecutor on pending gang-related charges filed against members of the Bloods and DC-Crew gangs following long-term SSTF investigations.

“AUSA Tripi aggressively prosecutes gang and narcotics investigations conducted by our Safe Streets Task Force,“ said SAC Piehota. “He has demonstrated his commitment to improving our neighborhoods and consistently supports our task force with humble professionalism. In furtherance of the Department of Justice and FBI outreach programs, AUSA Tripi works with community groups who collaborate to fight gang violence.”

“I am pleased that AUSA Joe Tripi is being honored by the FBI with the Director’s Community Leadership Award,” said U.S. Attorney William J. Hochul, Jr. “As a member of the National Security Division, Joe works extremely hard day in and day out to bring to justice those individuals who attempt to fill our streets with drugs, guns and violence. In particular, he has done tremendous work on the prosecution of the 10th Street and 7th Street gangs whose members have committed serious acts of violence on the streets of Buffalo.”

Buffalo Police Department Commissioner Daniel Derenda said, “AUSA Tripi’s support has allowed law enforcement agencies at the state, federal and local levels to jointly address gang activities and make the City of Buffalo a safer place to live and work.”

FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III, will present AUSA Tripi with the 2011 DCLA during a formal ceremony at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C., on March 16, 2012.

Ms. Essie Reed is Nominated for FBI Director’s 2011 Community Leadership Award

2011-12-19T12:44:00.000-08:00

MIAMI—John V. Gillies, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Miami Division, announces the nomination of Ms. Essie Reed for the FBI Director’s 2011 Community Leadership Award for her mentoring and charitable initiatives among the people in need of South Florida.

Ms. Reed, known locally as ‘Big Mama,’ will travel to Washington D.C. in March, 2012, to receive the award from FBI Director Robert S. Mueller III.

Ms. Reed is the president and founder of Team of Life, Inc., a non-profit charitable organization in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, that assists local residents in need. Her services provide children, who come from homes where drugs, alcohol, poverty and violence exist, an opportunity to overcome the hardships they face.

She has made a difference in her community through mentoring, community involvement, and feeding the homeless. Ms. Reed is a mentor to seventh-grade students at New River Middle School, where she provides meals, clothing, and transportation to students who are in her program. Her Young Men and Women Business Association links non-profit organizations to local businesses where they collaborate to address the social and economic needs impacting their communities. She collects and distributes thousands of turkeys and gifts each year during the holiday season.

Through her efforts, Ms. Reed has raised awareness of the homelessness that plagues local communities, the need for volunteers and mentors for youth and by improving a sense of community and caring among residents.

She has received numerous civic awards including being honored as Community Activist of the Year in 2001 by the Vanguard Chronicle.

Previous award winners from Miami include former NBA star Alonzo Mourning, the Anti-Defamation League, and Handy, Inc.

Homicide Survivors, Inc. Receives 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-14T11:54:00.000-08:00

PHOENIX, AZ—Phoenix FBI Special Agent in Charge (SAC) James L. Turgal, Jr. announced today Homicide Survivors, Inc. is the 2011 recipient of the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. Each FBI field office selects one individual or organization each year to receive this prestigious award.

Since 1990, the Director’s Community Leadership Award has been a principle means for the FBI to publicly recognize the achievements of individuals and organizations who make extraordinary contributions to crime and violence prevention and education in their communities.

Homicide Survivors, Inc. is a non-profit victim assistance organization dedicated to meeting the crisis and long term needs of families of murder victims. Through support, assistance, and advocacy they help survivors cope emotionally, stabilize economically, and seek justice for their loved ones. Homicide Survivors is committed to ensuring that no one has to endure the murder of a loved one alone.

The organization has been a driving force in creating legislative changes in Arizona. They were also active in supporting passage of the federal Crime Victims’ Rights Act, advancing victims’ rights and services nationally. Homicide Survivors, Inc. has served victims in Tucson and Southern Arizona since 1982. The program offers services at no charge to all survivors of homicide victims.

SAC James L. Turgal, Jr. said, “Homicide Survivors, Inc. epitomizes the spirit of the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award through their support, advocacy, and assistance to families and friends in our community who have lost a love one to murder.”

Director and victim advocate Carol Gaxiola stated, “Homicide Survivors, Inc. is honored to receive the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. We are grateful to our donors, community business partners, volunteers, survivors, and supporters who empower us every day to fulfill our mission to ensure that no survivor of homicide has to go through this tragedy alone.”

Ms. Essie Reed is Nominated for FBI Director’s 2011 Community Leadership Award

2011-12-13T17:13:00.000-08:00

MIAMI—John V. Gillies, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Miami Division, announces the nomination of Ms. Essie Reed for the FBI Director’s 2011 Community Leadership Award for her mentoring and charitable initiatives among the people in need of South Florida.

Ms. Reed, known locally as ‘Big Mama,’ will travel to Washington D.C. in March, 2012, to receive the award from FBI Director Robert S. Mueller III.

She has received numerous civic awards including being honored as Community Activist of the Year in 2001 by the Vanguard Chronicle.

Previous award winners from Miami include former NBA star Alonzo Mourning, the Anti-Defamation League, and Handy, Inc.

Ralph Boelter Named Assistant Director of the Counterterrorism Division

2011-12-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Ralph S. Boelter assistant director of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. Mr. Boelter most recently served as acting assistant director of the Counterterrorism Division.

Mr. Boelter began his career as a special agent with the FBI in July 1991. He first reported to the Boston Division where he investigated white collar crime, violent crime and criminal enterprise matters.

In December 1997, he was promoted and worked in the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. Mr. Boelter oversaw many of the Bureau’s violent crime and fugitive investigations.

He transferred to the Los Angeles Division in March 2000 to supervise the Violent Crime and Criminal Enterprise Branch out of the Long Beach Resident Agency. Mr. Boelter later served as acting assistant special agent in charge of the branch in November 2001, and was officially named to the position in January 2003.

Mr. Boelter was assigned as a detail in April 2005 for the investigation involving the unauthorized disclosure of CIA Agent Valerie Plame Wilson’s covert identity.

He returned to FBI Headquarters in September 2005 when he was promoted to the position of inspector. In this position, he led inspection teams in comprehensive assessments of FBI offices around the world.

Director Muller appointed Mr. Boelter as special agent in charge of the Minneapolis Division in December 2006. He managed high profile investigations including the Thomas Petters $3.6 billion corporate fraud case and the priority counterterrorism matter involving the recruitment of several Somali-American men in support of the designated terrorist organization, al-Shabaab.

Mr. Boelter received the 2010 Presidential Rank Award for sustained meritorious performance as a senior executive and demonstrating police leadership. In April 2011, Mr. Boelter was appointed as deputy assistant director of the Strategic Operations Branch, Counterterrorism Division, at FBI Headquarters. Mr. Boelter is a native of Wisconsin.

Media Advisory: WEAVE, Inc. to be Presented with FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-09T20:42:00.000-08:00

Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Sacramento Field Office Herbert M. Brown will present Beth Hassett, executive director of WEAVE, Inc., with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award during a brief ceremony. The annual award recognizes the achievement of an individual or organization for commitment to violence education and prevention.

Who:

Herbert M. Brown, special agent in charge, FBI Sacramento Field Office
Beth Hassett, executive director, WEAVE, Inc.

What:

Director’s Community Leadership Award presentation

When:
Monday, December 12, 2011
10:30 a.m.

Where:

Sacramento Field Office
4500 Orange Grove Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95841

USO Honors Servicemembers’ Leadership

2011-12-08T22:07:00.000-08:00

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

NEW YORK, Dec. 8, 2011 – Medal of Honor recipient Marine Sgt. Dakota Meyer, a Navy SEAL killed in Afghanistan in August, a soldier and an Air Force search-and-rescue team member who repeatedly exposed themselves to enemy fire to save their wounded comrades, and a Coast Guardsman who led maritime security operations in the Persian Gulf received the USO’s most prestigious leadership award last night.

The USO presented its George Van Cleave Military Leadership Awards at its 50th annual gala here to one member of each service who demonstrated outstanding commitment and exceptional service, sacrifice and achievement.

In addition to Meyer, this year’s recipients included Army Sgt. 1st Class Ty Carter, the late Navy Chief Special Operator Brian Bill, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Michael A. Brait, and Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Jason Mortiz.

Here are their stories:

Army Sgt. 1st Class Ty Carter, a section leader assigned to 2nd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, was honored for distinguishing himself while serving as a scout in Afghanistan. When his fellow soldiers and a nearby combat outpost came under attack from a battalion-sized enemy force, Carter, a specialist at the time, ran repeatedly through heavy enemy fire to bring critical ammunition to his position.

Armed only with only an M4 carbine, he beat back the assault force for several hours. Despite being wounded, he disregarded his own personal safety to assist a critically wounded comrade. He administered first aid and carried the wounded soldier through withering enemy fire. Throughout the battle, Carter exposed himself to the enemy no fewer than six times as he crossed treacherous ground where eight fellow soldiers were killed.

Carter’s cavalry troop is slated to deploy next spring.

Marine Sgt. Dakota Meyer , who received the Medal of Honor during Sept. 15 ceremonies at the White House, is the third living recipient of the nation's highest honor for valor since the Vietnam War and the first living Marine honoree in 41 years. Deployed twice for combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Meyer gained national attention for his heroic actions in Afghanistan’s Kunar province with an embedded training team.

Entering a “kill zone” five times during a six-hour firefight with well-armed insurgents, Meyer extracted the bodies of four fallen comrades, evacuated the wounded and provided essential aid despite his own extensive shrapnel wounds. Ultimately, he single-handedly turned the tide of battle, saving the lives of 13 U.S. service members and 23 Afghan soldiers.

In addition to heroism, presence of mind amid chaos and death, and unselfish devotion to his comrades in the face of danger, Meyer also demonstrated a deep sense of humility. When President Barack Obama honored him, Meyer requested simultaneous commemorative services at other locations to honor the memory of his colleagues killed during the ambush.

Chief Special Warfare Operator Brian Bill was one of 30 U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan Aug. 6 when a Taliban fighter shot down their helicopter during a mission to rescue Army Rangers locked in an intense firefight.

His USO honor, however, was presented for the way he lived his life -- personifying exceptional leadership, team spirit, courage and heart.

Graduating from Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL Training, the world’s most difficult military training, he quickly excelled as a SEAL operator in combat, coordinating and leading 60 direct-action missions, often under fire. After completing a seven-month advanced SEAL Operator Selection Course, Bill earned three Bronze Star Medals with the combat “V” device for Valor. Quoting from his second Bronze Star citation, “As an assistant team leader and sniper on a helo/vehicle interdiction mission, his instant quick thinking ensured the safety of the helo assault force and resulted in elimination of all the enemy fighters.” As noted in his third Bronze Star citation during Operation Enduring Freedom, during a night raid against a heavily barricaded enemy position, Bill fought his way under fire to pull a teammate back to safety.

Bill was honored as a gallant warrior who fought with valor and died with honor.

Air Force Tech. Sgt. Michael A. Brait was honored for demonstrating exceptional leadership and heroism as a special tactics combat controller in Afghanistan. He has maintained more than 3,000 hours of combat search-and-rescue coverage for an elite special operations force and provided helicopter services for 48 resupply missions, including crucial humanitarian assistance to a local Afghanistan village.

During a four-day operation in an insurgent village, Brait was the lead joint terminal attack controller for a combined U.S. Army Special Forces operational detachment. In that role, he conducted a critical nighttime water resupply for severely dehydrated forces, despite extreme heat and the threat of enemy ambush. The following morning, he responded to an attack on naval special forces, using an overhead Predator and Hellfire missile against the insurgents. While under heavy machine gun fire from multiple locations, he helped evacuate injured personnel while continuing to identify and attack enemy forces.

Brait also trained 140 Afghan soldiers on the front line of the U.S. security effort and led a six-month training plan to prepare combat-ready troops. For his bravery and leadership, he received the Bronze Star, Joint Service Commendation Medal and tAir Force Combat Action Medal.

Coast Guard Lt. j.g. Jason Mortiz distinguished himself as a leader and superior performer while assigned to Patrol Forces Southwest Asia, 5th U.S. Fleet, as the force intelligence officer in support of maritime security operations throughout the region.

His duties included monitoring and analyzing terrorism, smuggling, narcotics and geo-political issues for command decision-making. Moritz also coordinated training and advisory missions with counterpart services throughout the region. The Iraqi program he helped develop and implement was the first of its kind for the new Iraqi military. He was lauded for increasing the command’s situational awareness of regional events, for his sensitivity to the region’s volatile political infrastructure, and insight into cultural and local issues and for superb teamwork.

Moritz’s awards and decorations include three awards of the Coast Guard Commendation Medal. He is currently assigned to the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector New York as a command duty officer.

2011 Atlanta Division’s Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-07T12:26:00.000-08:00

ATLANTA—Today, Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Lamkin, FBI Atlanta, presented the Director’s Community Leadership Award for 2011 to Kaffie McCullough, campaign director of A Future. Not a Past. (AFNAP), which—through the nonprofit Juvenile Justice Fund (JJF)—assists various law enforcement agencies and courts in addressing the needs of juvenile victims being exploited within the commercial sex industry. On March 16, 2012, FBI Director Robert S. Mueller will host all of the FBI’s 56 selectees from around the country at a national ceremony to be held at FBI Headquarters with Ms. McCullough present as Atlanta FBI’s honoree.

Since 2007, the JJF’s statewide campaign, AFNAP, has worked to stop the prostitution of children in Georgia through groundbreaking research that drives strategies of prevention, intervention and education.

The mission of AFNAP is to protect and inspire hope in our children—the true victims of commercial sexual exploitation—as well as to disable demand and prosecute to the fullest extent the pimps and johns who exploit them.

The AFNAP campaign has continued to address the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of minors through a four-tiered strategy of research, prevention, intervention, and education.

Along with other state entities, the campaign has pushed for tougher state laws to be implemented, and due to their combined efforts, Georgia House Bill 200 became law on July 1, 2011. With that, traffickers sexually exploiting victims under 18 face penalties including the possibility of life in prison and fines up to $100,000.

In June 2011, The Outdoor Advertising Association of Georgia donated billboards throughout Metro Atlanta to AFNAP to present public service announcements focusing on penalties associated with child sexual exploitation and to encourage community involvement and education.

Since 2007, AFNAP has utilized all means of technology to reach the masses, maintaining social networking sites to provide education and volunteer opportunities. Additionally, AFNAP sponsors an annual 5K run to fight the sexual exploitation of children.

Albuquerque Security Manager Receives FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-05T15:58:00.000-08:00

Albuquerque FBI Special Agent in Charge Carol K.O. Lee presented the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award today to Thomas O. Craig, the security manager and fraud investigator for New Mexico Educators Federal Credit Union.

Each of the FBI’s 56 field offices annually selects an individual or organization to receive the award, which recognizes efforts in combating crime, terrorism, drugs, and violence in America.

“This is a tremendous honor and I am truly grateful to those in the Albuquerque Field Office responsible for my selection,” Mr. Craig said. “As a retired law enforcement officer, it’s always a pleasure to know that I may have assisted someone in some way with an investigation or the apprehension of an offender. I’m just very lucky to be working in a position for a company that allows me these opportunities.”

SAC Lee presented a certificate to Mr. Craig at the Albuquerque FBI Field Office. Mr. Craig has been invited to a March 16 ceremony in Washington, D.C., where FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III will present him and other recipients with crystal awards.

Since retiring from a 20-year career with the Albuquerque Police Department, Mr. Craig has volunteered his time assisting state, local, and federal law enforcement. During the past couple of years, Mr. Craig has helped the FBI with several ongoing cyber investigations involving multi-million-dollar losses at financial institutions in the community.

Mr. Craig has been a co-chair of the Financial Institution Security Officers Association (FISOA) for more than 10 years. The organization informs local financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, and consumers of financial fraud and identity theft trends and developments.

In July 2010, Mr. Craig played a crucial role in the preparation of a press release that advised small businesses, financial institutions, and consumers on how to protect themselves from a recent string of cyber attacks. The press release was issued in coordination with the FBI, Better Business Bureau, FISOA, Albuquerque Retail Assets Protection Association and New Mexico Restaurant Association.

Mr. Craig has coordinated opportunities for Albuquerque FBI special agents to meet officials at local financial institutions to make the businesses aware of ongoing threats.

Mr. Craig’s co-workers said “he has always demonstrated a commitment to doing what is right.”

“He is a champion for a teller who deals with a verbally abusive customer. He is an educator for the customer who cashes a check from the Nigerian lottery, and he is a liaison for other financial institutions and law enforcement,” the workers said in a statement. “Tom can see a case, with all of its nuances, and give others clarity to allow for the perpetrator to be caught, and the victim to get closure. With a witty charm and willingness to share stories from his bike trips or his days on the force, Tom Craig is an asset to our organization—and those of us who know him are better for the experience.”

SAC Lee said: “Tom Craig is a very deserving recipient of this year’s FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. He has helped the Albuquerque FBI and our law enforcement partners protect financial institutions and consumers from expensive cyber attacks. We also value his participation in our investigations.”

Albuquerque Security Manager Receives FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-12-02T15:40:00.000-08:00

Albuquerque FBI Special Agent in Charge Carol K.O. Lee presented the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award today to Thomas O. Craig, the security manager and fraud investigator for New Mexico Educators Federal Credit Union.

Each of the FBI’s 56 field offices annually selects an individual or organization to receive the award, which recognizes efforts in combating crime, terrorism, drugs, and violence in America.

Mr. Craig has coordinated opportunities for Albuquerque FBI special agents to meet officials at local financial institutions to make the businesses aware of ongoing threats.

Mr. Craig’s co-workers said “he has always demonstrated a commitment to doing what is right.”

FBI Philadelphia Presents the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-11-24T16:14:00.000-08:00

Special Agent in Charge George C. Venizelos of the Philadelphia Division of the FBI announced today that Stacy A. Irving, Senior Director of Crime Prevention Services for the Center City District and Chairperson of the Philadelphia Crime Prevention Council, is this year’s recipient of the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award for the Philadelphia Division.

Since 1990, the FBI has publicly recognized and honored the achievements of individuals and organizations for their continued efforts in combating crime, terrorism, drugs and violence in America with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. Each year, one individual or organization in each of the FBI’s 56 field offices is selected whose achievements in the terrorism, crime, drug, gang, and/or violence prevention and education field have had exemplary impact on the community.

With more than 30 years of experience working with neighborhood and downtown business communities, Ms. Irving is internationally recognized for her unique crime prevention models, which combine crime reduction strategies, economic development, emergency preparedness and police, business and community partnerships.

Ms. Irving has been an active supporter of the FBI, working closely with both the Philadelphia Division and the FBI’s Community Relations Unit at FBI Headquarters for many years. She is a 1997 graduate of the FBI Philadelphia’s Citizens Academy Program, a co-founder and the current President of the FBI Philadelphia Citizens Academy Alumni Association, and a member of the Board of Directors and past Vice President of the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association.

To further support the FBI and local law enforcement, Ms. Irving works closely with the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force and Counter Terrorism Squads on a variety of crime issues in the central business district. Over several years, she has helped coordinate the Annual Bank Robbery Prevention Summit with the Delaware Valley Financial Security Officers Group which is designed to assist law enforcement and financial institutions from throughout the region.

In 2010 and 2011 Ms. Irving helped coordinate two-part meeting between the FBI National and local Citizens Academy Alumni Associations and our office, along with representatives of more than 23 Muslim organizations from the region. These meetings provided an opportunity to bring together the Muslim community with federal, state and local law enforcement and human relations organizations, and to identify issues of concern, to facilitate mutual understanding, as well as to forge stronger partnerships.

Ms. Irving also serves as founder and Chairperson of the Philadelphia Crime Prevention Council, which is a forum for federal, state and local law enforcement working in partnership with corporate and private security to identify and facilitate crime prevention and emergency preparedness strategies. The Philadelphia Crime Prevention Council is celebrating its 14th year of successful public/private partnerships. Since September 11, 2001, Ms. Irving has dedicated a portion of every meeting to the FBI to provide counter-terrorism updates and to insure that the FBI has a strong working partnership with the private sector and local law enforcement.

Ms. Irving is the co-founder and administrator of the Alert Philadelphia emergency communications network in partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department. This critical communications tool was developed in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 to enable law enforcement and emergency management to communicate with the private sector and each other in the event of an emergency. Alert Philadelphia is being used to provide real-time text based messages with critical information on homeland security, crime alerts, bank robberies, amber alerts, bomb threats, demonstrations, and appeals for information, among other vital notifications. The system is an excellent example of public/private partnerships, as well as an emergency management and crime fighting tool, and has been credited with aiding the Philadelphia Police Department with five arrests to date.

The Philadelphia Division of the FBI presents Ms. Stacy Irving with the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award for her selfless dedication to making Philadelphia a stronger and safer community through her crime prevention initiatives, law enforcement and private sector partnerships and her steadfast support on behalf of the FBI and its mission.

Ms. Irving was presented with a certificate this past Thursday in the FBI offices in Philadelphia, and a formal ceremony will be held at FBI Headquarters on Friday, March 16, 2012, during which the FBI Director will personally present each of the recipients with their award.

Advancing Women’s Leadership in Law Enforcement

2011-11-22T16:52:00.000-08:00

By Director Connie Patrick, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center

Last week, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) hosted 21 women in law enforcement as part of FLETC’s Women in Law Enforcement Leadership Training Program at our headquarters in Glynco, GA. FLETC hosted a week-long leadership training program to help promote and support women’s leadership in law enforcement, discuss current leadership challenges for women in law enforcement, and help facilitate career planning.

During the training program, I had the great privilege to join U.S. Secret Service (USSS) Chief of Staff Julia Pierson and FLETC Assistant Directors Cynthia Atwood and Dominick Braccio for a panel discussion on law enforcement leadership topics.

USSS Chief of Staff Pierson began her career as a police officer in Orlando, Florida and then served as a USSS Special Agent assigned to the Miami Field Office. FLETC Assistant Director Atwood was a special agent at the United States Department of Agriculture before coming to FLETC 15 years ago to promote law enforcement training excellence. FLETC Assistant Director Braccio has 32 years of law enforcement experience and recently received the Outstanding Advocate for Women in Federal Law Enforcement Award for his contributions in areas of recruiting, retaining, and promoting women in law enforcement from the Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE) Foundation.

During the panel discussion, we noted that, while the law enforcement officers in attendance represented a diverse spectrum of agencies and functions, they shared common experiences as women in law enforcement. Although women make up 47 to 50 percent of the workforce in the United States, they constitute only up to 20 percent of the law enforcement workforce and are underrepresented in the management ranks.

Here at FLETC, we are working hard to advance issues that impact women in law enforcement. In the coming year, we will hold Women in Law Enforcement Leadership Training Programs at the FLETC domestic centers and internationally at the International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA) in Thailand, Hungary, Botswana, and El Salvador.

We at FLTEC understand that the law enforcement profession as a whole will continue to improve as women bring their skills and experience to leadership roles in law enforcement organizations across the country and around the world, and we look forward to being a part of their good work.

Connie Patrick is Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), DHS’s law enforcement training organization. Last year, FLETC trained more than 70,000 law enforcement professionals in skills including fingerprinting, tracking financial transactions, counterterrorism tactics, securing a building and searching a crime scene.

Internet Safety: Cyberbullying, Sexting and Social Networks

2011-11-19T21:10:00.001-08:00

The December 1, 2011, episode of American Heroes Radio features a conversation with Detective Keith Dunn on Internet Safety: Cyberbullying, Sexting and Social Networks.

Program Date: December 1, 2011
Program Time: 1500 hours, PACIFIC
Topic: Internet Safety: Cyberbullying, Sexting and Social Networks
Listen Live: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2011/12/01/internet-safety-cyberbullying-sexting-and-social-networks

About the Guest
Keith Dunn, KDCOP, has been warning and training parents, teachers, law enforcement and other community organizations nationwide about online dangers since 1999. KDCOP has worked closely with Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement as well as public and private investigative teams along the East Coast.

Keith has his degree in Criminal Justice and Computer Forensics. As a former member of the United States Air Force, Keith represented his Country during Operation Desert Storm. During his tour on active duty, Keith performed as a singer and dancer for “Tops in Blue”, a USO type military performing group started and operated by Bob Hope. After an honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1997 Keith immediately became a Police Officer for a local department. In 1999 Keith received a position as a Detective for the Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office as an active member of the National Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Thanks to being proactively involved in the arrest and prosecution of internet predators and internet offenders, Keith began speaking on National TV and Radio. Keith still has time to appear for speaking engagements and has been seen on many shows like CNN with Paula Zauhn, MSNBC, ABC, CBS, NBC, The Montel Williams Show and has worked with the production staff for the Judge Hatchett Show and Maury Povich Show. Keith has talked to over 50,000 students and 10,000 parents around the Country and has recently partnered with DARE NJ as their internet safety expert and trains all NJ DARE Officers about internet crimes.

Keith has been involved with or trained with nationally accredited organizations such as the FBI, Police Training Commission, and the FBI Crimes Against Children Unit — Online Child Pornography/Child Sexual Exploitation. He also attended the Online Crimes Against Children Unit Commander Course and was certified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

KDCOP FOUNDATION
The KDCOP Foundation, a NJ Nonprofit Corporation, was created to provide little or no cost cyber safe assemblies to schools in order to keep their students safe in the digital world. The foundation brings together some of the greatest minds when developing cyber safety curriculum and then executes a dynamic, interactive, educational and inspirational school assembly. The mission of the KDCOP Foundation is to procure sponsorship and grant money to limit the financial stress that already plagues our school systems in order to perform assemblies at every school across the country.

About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.

About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in law enforcement, public policy, law enforcement technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in law enforcement.

Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lawenforcement/2011/12/01/internet-safety-cyberbullying-sexting-and-social-networks

Listen from the Archive:
http://www.hitechcj.com/americanheroesradio/internet_safety_cyberbullying_sexting_social_networks.html

Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530

Blog Entry:
http://criminal-justice-online.blogspot.com/2011/11/internet-safety-cyberbullying-sexting.html

Facebook Event:
http://www.facebook.com/events/193327700749585

LinkedIn Event:
http://linkd.in/vNdXau

2011 Denver Division Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-11-18T16:14:00.000-08:00

The FBI Denver Division is proud to announce Mr. Allan Wick as the recipient of the Denver Director’s Community Leadership Award for 2011. The outstanding contributions demonstrated by Mr. Wick for service to his community are astounding. As a leader in Colorado’s security industry, he demonstrates a strong and sustained commitment to building safer communities through crime prevention and critical infrastructure protection. His outreach and leadership in Colorado and beyond is promoting lasting relationships with government, private sector businesses, academic institutions, state and local law enforcement, and other participants dedicated to sharing information and intelligence to prevent hostile acts against the United States.

Mr. Wick has achieved extraordinary results within the programs he initiated and built for the future. His influence in the FBI InfraGard program has developed a relationship of trust and credibility in the exchange of information concerning various terrorism, intelligence, criminal, and security matters.

InfraGard brings together representatives from the private and public sectors to help protect our nation’s critical infrastructure—both virtual and physical—from attacks by terrorists and criminals.

Read the best leadership book and learn how to become a respected leader like Mr. Wick!

Command Chief Master Sergeant: Leadership, taking care of Airmen should be the culture

2011-11-14T14:45:00.000-08:00

Become as good a leader as the Command Chief Master Sergeant! Learn from the best military leadership books written by professional military role models.

By Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. John Orrell

National Guard Bureau

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -Taking care of Airmen, getting help when help is needed and leading through engagement is the wingman concept the Air National Guard must continue to embrace, the senior enlisted advisor to the chief of the National Guard Bureau said here last week.

Speaking to senior enlisted members, junior officers and select outstanding junior enlisted members during the Air National Guard’s 2011 Enlisted Leadership Symposium, Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Denise Jelinski-Hall passionately reminded everyone of the necessity of taking care of each other.

“Taking care of our Airmen – it’s important – to create that culture of getting help if help is needed,” she said.

“Their wingman is there, their supervisor is there catch them, to help them, because … you’re engaged, you’ve got eyes on your Airman and taking care of them – that is what is expected of each and every one of you, to ensure we are taking care of our Airmen.”

Focusing on leading through engagement, Jelinski-Hall went through what she called her 10 leadership points.

1. Have a strong work ethic

For this point Jelinski-Hall said it may not be as simple to achieve as it is to explain, but like everything it will take work, focus and drive.

“To achieve any level of success, it takes hard work,” she said. “It takes work, time, effort, commitment, dedication, sacrifice to ensure you give an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay.”

2. Maintain a strong foundation of core values

Jelinski-Hall said she centers this leadership point around faith, family and life core values, such as integrity, trust, teamwork, doing the right thing and having that inner courage to ensure Guard members stand up for what is right at all times.

“It’s that foundation that as an Airman you are going to continually reach back on, and draw upon, when things get tough.”

3. Attitude, it all begins with attitude

“Everyday it begins with bringing the right attitude to the fight, to the office or wherever you are,” she said. “Have the right attitude. No one can give you that attitude and no one can take it away from you.”

It is up to the Guard member to decide what their attitude is going to be like, she said.

“You chose it everyday – when you wake up … you choose how you’re going to come to work, how you’re going to treat your employees,” she said.

“Attitude will determine your aptitude … and if you’re going to be successful in life you [need] to have that right attitude.”

4. Continual growth of self-development

“Education is absolutely a strategic imperative,” Jelinski-Hall said.

Self-development is also professional education, finding a mentor, being a mentor and volunteering for opportunities to get out of comfort zones, she said.

“Put yourself on a path of self-development. Take advantage of different courses. Use your opportunities for training,” Jelinski-Hall said.

“Put yourself out there – expand yourself. One thing you can do is to ask a trusted colleague … three questions – ‘What do I need to stop doing? What do I need to start doing? What should I continue to do?’” she said. “Seek out those mentors and ask those questions.”

5. Be ready

“Opportunities come and go, sometimes they’re fleeting and it’s just that crack in the little window … where you’ll be able to sneak in when that opportunity happens,” she said.

It’s about Guard members being available when needed and positioning themselves for the call.

“No matter what level of success you reach continue to ask the question – ‘What do I need to do to prepare for the next thing?’ - so when that moment happens, and leadership taps you on the shoulder … and says it’s your turn, it’s best if you’re ready.

“Give leadership every reason to select you,” Jelinski-Hall said. “You have to prepare for that next opportunity.”

6. Strategic Risks

Guard members should not be afraid to take strategic risks, she said.

“Sometimes in life to go forward you need to do a little lateral side-step, or sometimes you may have to take a step back,” Jelinski-Hall said.

“Think strategically and take that risk. The path is not always straight … there are multiple ways to reach a level of success and leadership. Think strategically about how you are going to accomplish the goals you have set for yourself and your organization.”

7. Reach up, reach down, reach out, reach in

Jelinski-Hall said this point takes work from all Guard members throughout the chain.

“Reach up to supervisors, mentors and read Air Force Instructions.

“Reach down – when you achieve a level of success – it is an inherent responsibility as an Airman to bring someone up with you.

“Reach out to your community – serve, volunteer.”

“And the most difficult is reach in. Reach in to know and understand yourself. Determine your strengths and weaknesses so you can maximize your true potential.”

8. Professionalism

Throughout a Guard member’s career this step should be a constant in everything they do in uniform and out, Jelinski-Hall said.

“Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, both civilian and military,” she said. ‘Be true to those core values. Do what’s right. Treat everyone with dignity and respect and be the best Airman that you can be.”

9. Respectfully don’t take “no” for an answer

Telling a story from when she was trying to become a command chief master sergeant and was told there was no way it would happen for her, Jelinski-Hall said she respectfully questioned why, and took the time to find out how she could, instead of settling for the “no” she received.

“Trust but verify the answer when you are told ‘no’,” she said. Don’t accept the saying “no you can’t” and take the time to research the facts and try to find the “yes you can” solution.

“Many of us ask the question, ‘Can I do it?’ That’s the wrong question. You need to ask, ‘How can I do it?’ It’s a different mindset: It assumes you can already do it – and you can,” Jelinski-Hall said.

10. Be a fire starter

Jelinski-Hall said this point is there to remind Guard members to enjoy what they do or else they become ineffective.

“Have passion and conviction for what you do. You have to have passion for what you do. And if you do, then this is not work,” she said.

“Get out there and ensure what you do you enjoy. Be excited about what you do, and have conviction to do a good job with that.”

She added that Guard members should use her points as a framework to develop their own throughout their careers, but to not forget how they got there and who helped make it possible.

“We stand on the shoulders of great leaders who have come before us, and you now are charged with doing the very same thing for those coming after you,” Jelinski-Hall said. “Break that glass ceiling and ... make things better for those you lead, those you serve, for those that come after you.”

It is that attitude of leadership and hard work which will allow the Air National Guard to continue building off its history and make things better for future Guard members, she said.

“The skills and ability we have in our National Guard … are the best, not only in America but the entire world.” Jelinski-Hall said. “I am so proud of everything you do each and every day to defend the flag that unites us in purpose.

“Give absolutely everything you have – that’s the difference in all things.”

FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award

2011-11-10T18:32:00.000-08:00

Become a leader in your workplace or in your community by learning from the best leadership book, written by leaders for leaders!

Scott Brunner, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Kentucky Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, announced the recipient of the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award. Brunner will present the award today to Chief Norman Mayer, of Louisville, Kentucky, at a ceremony to be held this evening at the St. Matthews City Hall.

Brunner stated that since 1990, the FBI has publicly recognized the achievements of individuals and organizations whose efforts in the crime, drug, gang, violence prevention, or education field have had an exemplary impact on the community. Each of the FBI’s 56 field offices annually recommends to the FBI Director one person or organization deemed worthy of this prestigious award.

The following is an overview concerning Chief Mayer:

Chief Mayer began his career with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department and later joined the Louisville Police Department where he rose through the ranks achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In 1988, Chief Mayer was named Chief of Police of the St. Matthews Police Department. He quickly made changes within the agency that positively impacted the department and the community it serves. Today, the St. Matthews Police Department is accredited and is considered one of the finest police departments in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Perhaps one of the most important contributions that Chief Mayer has made to the St. Matthews’ community is one that has also been important throughout Kentucky and its impact may be felt for generations to come. In 1996, Chief Mayer established the first School Resource Officer (SRO) program in Kentucky, in his words, “to maintain an environment where teachers feel safe to teach and students feel safe to learn.” The program was intended to address the trend of increasing crime and disorder in our schools. The program had a remarkable effect on the environment and safety of our schools and was heralded as a success. The program became a national model for law enforcement agencies and schools throughout the United States. Today there are approximately 200 School Resource Officers in Kentucky. Chief Mayer encouraged his SRO to become a national SRO training instructor. To date, that officer has trained over 400 police officers nationwide to fill this important role.

Chief Mayer created a Criminal Investigative Division to conduct more in-depth investigations of matters within St. Matthews. He also established a Special Response Team (SRT) composed of specially trained patrol officers who could respond to active shooter incidents at the schools or large malls within the community. He solicited help from the Louisville FBI SWAT team to provide active shooter training for his personnel. He has maintained a close liaison with the Louisville FBI and appropriately recognizes incidents as potential federal criminal or terrorism matters. Within the past year, he referred two matters to the Louisville FBI. One matter involved a complicated scheme by a local automobile dealer to defraud customers and banks. The referral prevented many hundreds of thousands of dollars of additional loss. On another matter (which is still pending) Chief Mayer thought might be terrorism related, however, investigation by the Louisville FBI determined it to be a criminal matter involving multiple locations throughout the country.

Chief Mayer’s influence is apparent in the leadership positions held by his own police officers in some of Kentucky’s most important law enforcement organizations such as “The Kentucky School Resource Officers Association,” “The Kentucky Women in Law Enforcement Network,” and “The Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program.” Chief Mayer has been a mentor to countless police officers throughout Kentucky. He has been an ethical and moral leader and he continues to set high standards for others to follow. He has clearly earned the respect and admiration of his officers and community.

Chief Mayer will be afforded the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. in March 2012 to be personally recognized by the FBI Director Robert S. Mueller III at a national ceremony to be held at FBI Headquarters.

Sacramento FBI Announces 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award Recipient: WEAVE, Inc.

2011-11-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

Learn from the best leadership book and become a leader in your community or workplace!

The Sacramento Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is pleased to announce that WEAVE, Inc. is the recipient of the 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award. The annual award recognizes the achievement of an individual or organization for commitment to violence education and prevention.

“It is an honor to be able to present WEAVE, Inc. with the Director’s Community Leadership Award for commitment to crisis intervention and prevention in our region,” said Herb Brown, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Sacramento FBI field office. “Beth Hassett and her team’s outstanding efforts have continually increased the community’s understanding of domestic violence and sexual assault and have ensured that victims have resources available to begin the healing process.”

Since opening as a grassroots organization in 1978, WEAVE has become a large, nationally recognized agency that provides crisis intervention and prevention services to women, men and children who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking in the Sacramento region. Focused on eliminating the cycle of violence and abuse, WEAVE dedicates significant resources to prevention and education programs in addition to essential victims services. In 2011, WEAVE realized the following successes:

■197 women and 168 children found refuge at the safe house for an average of 27 days each

■15,865 callers received help from the 24-hour support line
■1,006 women and men received counseling
■57 children received therapy to break the cycle of violence
■1,404 victims received legal services
■212 rape victims were accompanied at the hospital during evidence collection.

“I am honored that WEAVE has been chosen as the Sacramento area recipient of the Director’s Community Leadership Award. WEAVE believes that all women, men, and children deserve to feel safe in their homes and community,” said Beth Hassett, executive director of WEAVE. “In these difficult times we have to be more innovative, more enthusiastic and more committed to making sure that the most vulnerable among us are taken care of. The award represents our continued efforts to create a cohesive response to victims and accountability for perpetrators.”

For more than two decades, Beth Hassett, executive director of WEAVE, has been a volunteer and staff member for non-profit organizations focused on improving the quality of life in the Sacramento region and beyond. As the executive director of WEAVE, Hassett leads a team of advocates, counselors, educators, and volunteers who share the common goal of bringing an end to domestic violence and sexual assault in the community.

In addition to her position with WEAVE, Hassett currently serves as a commissioner on the First Five Sacramento Commission, president of the Planned Giving Forum of Sacramento, treasurer of the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA), vice president of the Midtown Business Association, secretary of the Sacramento Children’s Coalition, and is a member of both the ALS Association National Board of Representatives and the board of the ALS Association of Greater Sacramento. She was appointed to the statewide Domestic Violence Advisory Council by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2010 and graduated from the Sacramento FBI Citizens Academy in 2011.

Hassett will accept the 2011 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award on behalf of WEAVE, Inc. from SAC Brown during a small ceremony held at the Sacramento field office at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, November 30, 2011. Hassett will also travel to FBI Headquarters in Washington D.C. to receive the official engraved crystal award from FBI Director Robert Mueller on March 16, 2012, at a public ceremony.

About WEAVE

Established in 1978, WEAVE provides crisis intervention and prevention services to women, men, and children in Sacramento County who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking. Key programs include a safehouse for women and children, a sexual assault response team, a 24-hour support and information line, counseling, legal services, and prevention education for youth and adults.

Media Contact:

Gina Swankie, (916) 214-8309

Aaron T. Ford Named Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Memphis Division

2011-11-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

Special Agent Aaron T. Ford has read and learned from some of the best leadership books. You should do the same and become a leader in your workplace.

Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Aaron T. Ford special agent in charge of the FBI’s Memphis Division. Mr. Ford most recently served as an inspector in the FBI’s Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ) since August 2010. He oversaw field office and FBIHQ inspections, shooting incident review teams, audits, and special inquiries.

Mr. Ford began his career as an FBI agent in August 1985. His first assignment was to the St. Louis Division, where he worked violent crime and organized crime matters. He was also a SWAT team member, where he participated in the execution of numerous high-risk threats, search warrants, and protective details.

In June 1989, Mr. Ford transferred to the Newark Division. He served as team leader on the SWAT team. In August 1998, he was promoted to supervisory special agent on a drug squad.

Two years later, in January 2000, he became a supervisor for the public corruption/civil rights squad. In August 2005, he was assigned as supervisory special resident agent of the Red Bank Resident Agency. While in this role, he supervised all criminal matters.

Mr. Ford returned to FBIHQ in February 2006 as a team leader in the Inspection Division, where he served until August 2007. He participated in the auditing of all FBI programs. In October 2007, he made his way back to the Newark Division as assistant special agent in charge. Mr. Ford oversaw the administrative branch and later the criminal enterprise branch.

Prior to his FBI career, he served as a special agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Ford investigated violent crime, fugitive, drug, and corruption cases.

Mr. Ford is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminology from Tennessee State University and a Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers School of Law.

Phoenix's community relations officer brings people together

2011-11-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

Whether a police officer or active community member, learn from the best leadership book to become a leader like Rudy Bustamante!

If anyone knows Phoenix, it's Rudy Bustamante. He's spent his entire life there, serving in community roles ranging from police detective to school board member. When U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was looking for a community relations officer for the Phoenix area, Bustamante was the perfect fit. Two years into the position, he works tirelessly to educate advocacy groups, schools, neighborhoods, and local law enforcement agencies about ICE.

"People are totally surprised at what we do," he said.

It's a common misconception that ICE focuses only on immigration. While that's part of the agency's mission, ICE also serves as the largest investigative agency in the Department of Homeland Security. ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents enforce customs laws, conduct drug and human smuggling investigations, detect financial fraud, and more.

"Rudy is able clear up miscommunication about what each federal agency's role is," said Michael Nowakowski, a Phoenix city councilman. "Rudy has helped bring the community together and understand the role of ICE. Everyone wants to lock up bad people. If you're smuggling human bodies across the border, you're going to jail. No one wants to have a human smuggler next door."

Like Nowakowski, people want to know what's happening in their communities, especially when ICE is involved.

"I'll call my contacts from my cell phone from the scene when we execute a search warrant. That provides them with an idea of what's going on, and they appreciate that," said Bustamante.

You'll also find Bustamante making presentations at schools and meeting with advocacy group leaders at local coffee shops. He considers in-person meetings to be of great importance because that's how he builds rapport and trust with the local community.

During those interactions, he uses the Steven R. Covey quote, "Seek to understand; then to be understood," as a guiding principle.

In order to be effective, "You must first listen. Then, you can share what you have to offer and how you can help out," said Bustamante. "ICE employees are part of the community. They work here, go to school here. They have a vested interest in keeping your community safe."

Face of Defense: ‘Soldier of the Year’ Leads by Example

2011-11-02T15:41:00.000-07:00

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 2, 2011 – She is, by one measure, the best soldier in the Army: a first sergeant -- the enlisted leader of an Army company -- and single mother, who stands about 5 feet tall and whose personal email address includes the moniker “short dawg.”

But according to the troops, commanders and civilians who work alongside her, 1st Sgt. Monekia Denkins’ influence far exceeds her physical stature.

Denkins, recently chosen as Army Times newspaper’s 2011 Soldier of the Year, received some two dozen unsolicited letters in support of her nomination for that award. Fellow members of the South Korea-based 201st Signal Company wrote of her tolerance, guidance, mentorship and motivation and leadership.

Denkins’ leadership style is indicated within many nomination letters that describe her attitude toward rank. As one letter put it, “On a weekly basis we held meetings in the conference room and [Denkins] would start it out the same: ‘Everyone take off your rank. In this room rank doesn’t matter, for we are family and everyone has a voice. If anyone has anything they need to get off their chest, now is the time, for once we walk out of this room we speak with one voice.’”

Denkins and Army Capts. Keila Sanchez-Erazo and Gary Jones, her current and former company commanders with the 201st, spoke with American Forces Press Service during Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta’s visit here last week. Denkins introduced Panetta to the crowd at a town hall gathering, addressing them as “leaders.”

“I refer to all of my soldiers as leaders, because leaders must believe in themselves -- people must believe in themselves,” she told AFPS. “My soldiers are referred to as leaders, not by rank, … because I want them to be able to go out there and be able to accomplish any mission.”

Denkins said she considers it her job to show soldiers what right looks like.

“I am the example. My commander is the example,” she said. “Beyond that, I make them face their fears head-on.”

Poor leaders are those who don’t meet established standards, she said.

“There’s one standard. You can always rise above the standard, but you don’t drop below. … It’s not an 82nd Airborne [Division] standard, it’s not a Fort Bragg standard, it’s not a Korea standard. It’s the Army standard that we compete against,” Denkins added.

She admitted the letters supporting her nomination surprised her.

“Really and truly, I thought they all hated me because of how I am,” she said. “But when you’re part of a team, you’ve got to push people to the point where they feel very uncomfortable. … When they’re uncomfortable and they can face it and overcome it, there’s no better feeling. You can see it in their faces that they believe they can accomplish anything.”

The first sergeant said during 20 years in the Army, she never has worried about being liked.

“When we have to fight and win tonight, [‘like’ is] not going to get us there,” she said. “It’s not about likership, it’s about military leadership.”

Sanchez-Erazo, who commands the 201st, said that while Denkin’s soldiers may not say so to her face, they truly admire the ability that she has to build them up. “She finds ways to make them believe in themselves,” the captain said.

Jones, former 201st commander, said Denkins not only leads her troops through their military tasks, but supports them in life challenges as well. For example, he said, one soldier in the company, a 19-year-old “super troop,” tested positive for HIV about a year ago.

“Absolutely outstanding soldier,” he said. “When he was first diagnosed, it was a very, very difficult time for him. The person that he went to was First Sergeant Denkins.”

During the three weeks before the soldier returned to the United States, Jones said, Denkins was by his side, helping him to cope with the news and the difficulty of sharing it with his family.

“There are so many leaders today who have a false sense of care,” he said. “You see the stories about toxic leadership -- leaders who only care about their careers. But she never looks up; she always looks to the soldiers.”

Denkins said the other soldiers in the unit never knew about that soldier’s condition, and he returned to the United States with his dignity intact. “I wanted him to concentrate on getting better, because this is not a death sentence,” she said, noting that she asks herself how she’d want to be treated when a tough situation arises. And when she faces a “point of no return” situation, Denkins said, her first thought is to turn it around.

“One human life lost is way too many, because one person can affect thousands,” she said. “So I’ve got to figure out a way to turn a situation around. I don’t sleep well at night, because I’m always thinking. I always want to make it better.”

Denkins admitted her time as a first sergeant has made her look at herself in a new light. Jones and Sanchez-Erazo build her up by challenging her to take better care of herself, she said.

“They see something that I haven’t taken time to look at, and that’s me,” she said. “I’m the last person to get fed.”

Denkins was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2008, and while she admits to not always taking her medicine as she should, she doesn’t let the condition slow her down. Jones said he once carried the first sergeant to the emergency room, where she was told to take three days off. Denkins was back at work later that morning, he added.

As a single parent, Denkins said, her 18-year-old son, Marquel, has had to get by on the “not a lot that’s left” when her duty day ends.

“It’s not a good balance,” she acknowledged. “I spend more time at work, … but when I am with my son, it’s quality time. And I will back him up, and I push him to do anything he can do.”

Her soldiers have asked her son how he can live in the same house with her, Denkins said, and his response is it’s easy “if you do what you’re supposed to do.”

“I believe that it starts at home,” she said. “I am a very disciplined person -- I always tell everyone, it’s the small things that will trip you up. What I say to my soldiers, my son gets 40 times over.

“I’ve never had a problem with my son, not once,” she continued. “Marquel is a blessing to me -- he’s very, very disciplined. He’s very respectful.”

Denkins has been selected for promotion to sergeant major, and she’s slated to attend the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy next year. Denkins said she considered retiring a while back, but has decided against it.

“I was actually getting a little disgruntled,” she said. “When you start seeing stories about toxic leaders, I take that personally, because I am a leader. For those who are out there who don’t want to do the right thing, I think they should be the ones who retire.”

Denkins said she’s looking forward to attending the academy.

“I want to do my best, because if you don’t have to worry about Denkins, that’s one less soldier you’ve got to worry about.”

Denkins said she has seen the standing of women in the military improve during her career.

“Now, as far as sitting at the table with the males, we’re coming a long way,” she said. “We’re noticing there are females that go into combat, they get into situations, and they survive.” She added some advice for other women in uniform.

“Don’t let somebody tell you that you can’t do something because you’re a female,” she said. “Stay grounded, focus, and you can achieve anything that you want to if you believe in yourself. But it starts with you.”

MCPON Holds Leadership Mess Symposium

2011-10-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

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By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Abraham Essenmacher, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) concluded his annual Leadership Mess Symposium in Suffolk, Va., Oct. 28, which included more than 100 Fleet, Force and flag-level command master chiefs.

The goal of the symposium was to deliver clear, concise communication on Navy programs and practices to the Navy's top enlisted leaders for continued force effectiveness. They received a full spectrum of timely information regarding policies and processes affecting today's Navy.

"Our Navy's greatest asset is our Sailors and it's critical for the Chief's Mess to be on the same page with challenging, leading and mentoring Sailors," said MCPON (SS/SW) Rick D. West. "A key part of our ability to achieve those objectives is awareness of the issues affecting our service and the resources available to make the team successful."

MCPON's Leadership Mess received briefs from several flag officers including Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Scott R. Van Buskirk, and Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources Vice Adm. John T. Blake.

Current topics including energy, budget and programming, suicide prevention, operational stress control, strategic communication, Spice, Fleet manning initiatives, uniform matters and the different phases of the CPO 365 program. Attendees also participated in group breakout sessions to focus on several current Fleet priorities.

"Our master chiefs are working hard with their commanders to ensure we are always mission-ready and looking forward to the next target on the horizon," said West. "This forum allows us to hear firsthand from senior leaders and subject-matter experts, and then to discuss those issues among deckplate leaders. The objective is for our command master chiefs to have the latest information that they can share with the Sailors in their areas of responsibility."

With significant budget concerns and other challenges facing the Armed Forces, West believes senior enlisted leaders need to possess a solid understanding of the Navy's approach to effectively balancing combat readiness with fiscal realities, and to shaping the force in a manner that preserves quality of service for Sailors and their families.

"We serve in a Navy that is always evolving and changing to meet current and future global requirements," said West. "If we are going to continue to be the best Navy ever, the Chiefs' Mess and our senior enlisted leaders must grow professionally and be familiar with every aspect of our Navy," said West.

Border Patrol Agent Receives Prestigious Award

2011-10-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

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NAU Honors Sabri Dikman as Distinguished Citizen of the Year

Tucson, Ariz. – The “Dr. Cliff Harkins Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award” was presented to current Branch Chief of Operations for the Joint Field Command-Arizona during a ceremony at the NAU Homecoming football game held at the Walkup Skydome in Flagstaff on October 22.

Sabri Dikman was honored by the Northern Arizona University Alumni Association for his “exemplary service to community and strong leadership” for his tenure as deputy patrol agent in charge of the Nogales Station throughout 2010.

“I am truly honored to be named the 2011 recipient of the Cliff Harkins Distinguished Citizen of the Year award” said Dikman “This honor brings the hard work of the men and women of the Border Patrol especially those assigned to the Tucson Sector, and more specifically the Nogales Station, into the public light.”

The Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award was established in 2002 to recognize individuals working for nonprofit organizations; governmental assignments at the municipal, county, state or federal level; or other outstanding service as a citizen.

In June of 2010, Dikman assumed the role of interim Assistant Patrol Agent in Charge of the Nogales Station, the largest and one of the busiest stations in the United States. His interim status was made permanent in October 2010. Two months later, on Dec. 7, he was promoted to Acting Patrol Agent in Charge of the Nogales Station; a position he held until July 2011.

Dikman was nominated for the award by R. Alan Booth, then Branch Chief of Operations for Joint Field Command-Arizona. He said Dikman led his men and women through a tragic and challenging time shortly after taking charge when Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry was murdered.

Booth wrote in his recommendation that Dikman ensured every resource was effectively applied to facilitate the investigation and bring the responsible parties to justice. At the same time, Dikman ensured his other employees received emotional support. “The hallmark of his leadership was demonstrated in the selfless way he lead his team through the worst possible circumstances any law enforcement family can encounter,” said Booth.

Under Dikman’s leadership, according to Booth’s recommendation, the Nogales Station significantly reduced illicit cross border traffic by acquiring much-needed additional resources, personnel and key technology. Through his leadership and vision, these resources were deployed to maximize efficiency and create an optimum enforcement posture.

Booth said he has been Dikman’s colleague for several years and has come to know him on and off duty. “Aside from working 12-hour days to secure the Nation’s border,” said Booth, “he also engaged the Nogales community by regularly meeting with a community advisory board, comprised of key stakeholders and influential residents, to ensure the best possible relationship between the Border Patrol and local residents.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Andrew Weissmann Appointed as FBI’s General Counsel

2011-10-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

FBI Director Robert S. Mueller has named Andrew Weissmann as the general counsel. He joined the FBI after five-and-a-half years as a partner at Jenner & Block LLP in New York City. Mr. Weissmann is returning to the FBI, having previously served as special (police leadership) counsel to the Director in 2005.

Mr. Weissmann was a federal prosecutor for 15 years in the Eastern District of New York, where he served as the deputy chief and then chief of the criminal division. He prosecuted numerous members of the Colombo, Gambino, and Genovese families, including the bosses of the Colombo and Genovese families. He also prosecuted or oversaw white-collar crime and terrorism cases. He later served as the director of the Enron Task Force in Washington, D.C., where he supervised the prosecution of more than 30 individuals in connection with the company’s collapse.

Mr. Weissmann has extensive experience in private practice. He has represented both U.S. and foreign corporations and executives in connection with criminal and civil investigations and lawsuits. Mr. Weissmann won the largest Financial Industry Regulatory Authority arbitration award in history. He also has taught criminal law and procedure at two law schools.

Mr. Weissmann has a Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School and was on the managing board of the Columbia Law Review. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University and attended the University of Geneva for one year on a Fulbright Fellowship.

Teresa Carlson Named Special Agent in Charge of the Milwaukee Division

2011-10-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Teresa L. Carlson special agent in charge of the FBI’s Milwaukee Division. Ms. Carlson most recently served as section chief in the Directorate of Intelligence, which is responsible for collecting, producing, and disseminating actionable intelligence that enables the FBI to identify and counter current and emerging threats.

Ms. Carlson is a 19-year veteran of the FBI. She entered on duty as a special agent and was first assigned to the Chicago Division, where she investigated violent crimes and public corruption matters. Ms. Carlson was a case agent for Operation Silver Shovel, an undercover investigation that involved bribery, drug trafficking, and organized crime activity. It resulted in more than 20 convictions, including elected officials.

She was later promoted to the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters. Ms. Carlson then transferred to the Birmingham Division, where she served as a supervisor in the white-collar crime program.

After serving in the Birmingham Division, Ms. Carlson was appointed assistant special agent in charge (ASAC) of the white-collar crime and cyber programs in the New York Division. While in this role, she oversaw high-profile investigations and subsequently was in charge of the intelligence program for the division.

She returned to FBI Headquarters after working as ASAC in the New York Division. Ms. Carlson worked in the FBI’s National Security Branch, which is responsible for national security matters, including budget matters and liaison with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, Congress, and the White House.

Ms. Carlson is from Grand Rapids, Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University. Prior to her career in the FBI, she did legal research for the Michigan Legislature.

Teresa Carlson Named Special Agent in Charge of the Milwaukee Division

2011-10-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

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She was later promoted to the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters. Ms. Carlson then transferred to the Birmingham Division, where she served as a supervisor in the white-collar crime program.

Ms. Carlson is from Grand Rapids, Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University. Prior to her career in the FBI, she did legal research for the Michigan Legislature.

Robert J. Holley Named Special Agent in Charge of Indianapolis Division

2011-10-17T11:57:00.001-07:00

Robert J. Holley is one of many distinguished police leaders. Become like him or even better by checking out the best police leadership books, all written by police leaders.

Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Robert J. Holley special agent in charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Division. Mr. Holley most recently served as a section chief in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters, where he was involved in the management of the FBI’s U.S. based international terrorism investigations.

Mr. Holley began his career as a special agent in 1995, and reported to the Chicago Division after graduation from New Agents Training in Quantico, Virginia.

While in Chicago, he was assigned to investigate domestic and international terrorism matters. He also served as a member of the Chicago Division’s SWAT team and a special agent bomb technician. During his time in the division, he was promoted to supervisory special agent and supervised an international terrorism squad.

In November 2005, Mr. Holley was promoted and assigned to FBI Headquarters as a unit chief in the Counterterrorism Division. He was deployed to Yemen, Iraq, Pakistan, India, Tanzania, and Israel in support of the FBI’s number one priority, counterterrorism.

Mr. Holley transferred back to the Chicago Division, where he served as assistant special agent in charge of the National Security Branch from 2008-2010.

Prior to his FBI career, he served in the U.S. Army as an infantry officer.

Mr. Holley is a native of Indiana. He graduated from Peru High School in 1977, and from Ball State University in 1981. He and his wife Toni have one son, Dakota.

CBP Field Operations at Port of Brownsville Graduates Second Citizen's Academy Class

2011-10-12T14:19:00.000-07:00

Only well-respected community leaders make it to the Citizen's Academy. Check out the best leadership book and learn how to be like them!

Brownsville, TX – On October 6, Michael Freeman, Port Director, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Brownsville Port of Entry announced the graduation of a second class of the CBP Field Operations Brownsville Citizen’s Academy.

The CBP Field Operations Brownsville Citizen’s Academy is part of a continuing aggressive plan by Port Director Freeman to foster a better working relationship with the communities in which officers live and work.

The eight-week course provides class participants with a better working knowledge and understanding of CBP.

The academy consists of a series of classroom discussions and several hands-on scenarios. The citizen’s academy is a field training that was held once a week on Wednesday evenings for eight weeks.

The BCA continues to create a better understanding, improves communication, and helps solidify a better partnership between the citizen academy participants and CBP through education. Brownsville Port of Entry Citizen’s Academy graduates have assisted us in identifying potential problems and solutions to border issues.

This second Brownsville Citizen’s Academy graduating class consisted of members from throughout the community. Represented in this academy class were members from the following organizations:

U.S. Consulate, Matamoros: Andrew Crosson, Jennifer Nilson and Jeremy Monks

Mexico Consulate, Brownsville: Raul Gomez and Efrain Hernandez Parra
Mexico Customs: Zaida Villarreal Snyder and Hector Eduardo Castillo
Brownsville & Rio Grande Railroad: Norma Torres and Eric Hinojosa
Union Pacific Railroad: Fernando GarzaZ
Port of Brownsville: Antonio Rodriguez

“Participants of our Citizen’s Academies will assist us in getting our message out into the communities. I applaud these academy participants for attending each session and getting a first-hand, hands-on, behind-the-scenes look into the CBP mission on the frontlines,” said Michael Freeman, CBP Port Director, Brownsville port of entry.

ONR Cultivates Next Generation of Talent at Hispanic Engineering Conference

2011-10-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

These talented young engineers are the cream of the military leadership crop. Check out these military leadership books to become like these heroes!

From Office of Naval Research Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- Students will gain new insights about science and technology opportunities with the Department of the Navy at the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Corporation's (HENAAC) 2011 Career Conference, Oct. 6-8, in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) will exhibit with displays and information to support the Navy's push to stimulate interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and careers.

"HENAAC affords ONR the chance to make meaningful connections with the Hispanic community. We want to establish long-term relationships that produce the unique technical talent the Navy will need in the future," said Dr. Anthony Junior, ONR's education programs manager.

The ONR booth also will highlight professional research opportunities at Navy laboratories for university faculty members who may be considering interim pursuits during summer breaks and sabbaticals.

"We are contributing to the STEM literacy of the nation with the expectation that some of these students will come to work for the Department of the Navy, whether on active-duty or as a civilian," said Junior.

The 23rd annual HENAAC event is expected to bring 5,000 visitors to this year's venue located at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. It will feature exhibits, seminars and activities, including a career fair, technical poster competition and the HENAAC College Bowl, a competition where students apply their technical knowledge and skills to compete for scholarship prizes.

The conference is hosted by Great Minds in STEM, the Los Angeles-based organization formally known as HENAAC-the Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Corporation. Established in 1989, the nonprofit organization is promoting STEM careers in underserved communities to help bolster the nation's technological strength.

ONR provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.

Norfolk FBI Announces 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award Recipient

2011-10-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

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Special Agent in Charge Alex J. Turner of the Norfolk Field Office of the FBI announced his selection of Mr. Robert Stephens, co-founder and facilitator of the Community Action Coalition of Suffolk, Virginia, as the local recipient of the FBI’s 2011 Director’s Community Leadership Award for his commitment to positive community relations.

Mr. Stephens, a pragmatic visionary, has been working with the community of Suffolk, Virginia since 2009 when he began to solicit community input to establish a community-wide youth development and violence prevention strategy. In 2010, Mr. Stephens formed the Community Action Committee (CAC), a non-profit organization, in response to continued youth violence, juvenile delinquency, lack of responsive prevention, and, ultimately, the citizens’ call for change. Today, the CAC serves as a catalyst for a series of programs and convener of initiatives that address socio-cultural and economic issues in the City of Suffolk.

Under the leadership of Mr. Stephens, the CAC was instrumental in launching a student-led, anti-violence campaign known as Be Fight Free (BFF) during the 2010-2011 school year to develop youth leaders that would spread awareness of violence in schools and in the community of Suffolk. As BFF student committees were formed in schools, students began to garner additional support from the school division and local law enforcement. Furthermore, students planned and executed rallies, distributed BFF wristbands and buttons, and placed campaign banners in schools. In January 2011, Suffolk Public Schools designated January as Violence Prevention Month to coordinate with the BFF Campaign. As a result of this effort, students have reportedly become more vocal and willing to reach outside of the boundaries of schools and challenge the community at large to address violence. In King’s Fork High School, over 700 students signed pledges to remain violence free. In addition, Lakeland High School has witnessed a 70 percent decrease in the amount of violent acts.

Mr. Stephens will be formally presented with the award on Monday, October 3, 2011, at 1:30 p.m. at the office of the Norfolk FBI, located at 150 Corporate Boulevard, Norfolk, Virginia 23502. Members of the press and media are invited to attend.

Joseph Campbell Named Special Agent in Charge of the San Juan Division

2011-09-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Joseph S. Campbell special agent in charge of the FBI’s San Juan Division. Mr. Campbell most recently served as an inspector in the Inspection Division at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ), where he led teams responsible for sensitive investigations and the assessment of FBI operations and performance at FBIHQ and in field offices.

Mr. Campbell entered on duty as an FBI special agent in 1990 and was assigned to the Chicago Division after graduation from new agents training in Quantico, Virginia. While in Chicago, he investigated white-collar crime, public corruption, organized crime, and drug cases.

In November 1998, Mr. Campbell was promoted to supervisory special agent in the Counterterrorism Division, Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Operations Unit at FBIHQ, where he oversaw national WMD threat responses and investigations. In February 2001, he was promoted to supervisory special agent of the Joint Terrorism Task Force in the Denver Division. While in this position, he directed intelligence collection and the investigation of terrorism activity.

Mr. Campbell was assigned as an assistant inspector for the Inspection Division at FBIHQ in September 2004. He returned to the Denver Division in December 2005 as assistant special agent in charge, overseeing intelligence, WMD, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, and cyber programs.

In March 2008, Mr. Campbell returned to FBIHQ as section chief in the Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate. As section chief, he directed national and international WMD training and exercises. Additionally, he oversaw the development and implementation of WMD countermeasures.

Mr. Campbell earned a Juris Doctorate from the Washburn University School of Law, and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Kansas.

Face of Defense: Civilian Cited for Preservation Efforts

2011-09-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

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By Robert Goetz

502nd Air Base Wing

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE – An Air Force civilian employee who has worked here for years to preserve the base’s architectural heritage is the recipient of a prestigious national award.

Scott Shepherd of the 902nd Civil Engineer Squadron, the installation’s cultural resources manager, has earned the Secretary of the Interior Historic Preservation Award in the Federal Preservation Office category.

"As far as I'm concerned, I can't go any higher than this," said Shepherd, whose service here, in San Antonio, spans more than 20 years.

"Winning this award is unbelievable,” he continued, “but really it's for all the people who have supported historic preservation, from four-star generals to the workers who preserve these buildings."

Robert Rushing, the 902nd squadron’s management flight chief, said Shepherd "has been responsible for the preservation of this invaluable cultural treasure and he has done so with vigor and a call to duty beyond the description of his job."

Richard Trevino, the unit’s commander, said Shepherd has performed "at the highest level" throughout his more than 50 years of federal service.

"By working with Scott, one can easily see his integrity, dedication and professionalism in every aspect of his life," Trevino said. "As our cultural resources manager, he preserves the historical features of Randolph Air Force Base while ensuring no adverse impact to the many diverse missions on base.

“When one looks at the historical beauty and significance of Randolph, there is no doubt Scott deserves this prestigious award," Trevino added.

Shepherd became the cultural resources manager here in 1993, the same year the Texas Historical Commission listed the base among the state's 10 most endangered historic properties. Since then, the 80-year-old "Showplace of the Air Force," known for its Spanish colonial revival-style architecture, has been designated a national historic landmark.

"I'm proud we have 435 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, and we are a national historic landmark," Shepherd said. "That will ensure we protect our historic buildings for the future."

Shepherd was instrumental in obtaining funding and approval to remove paint and restore the high, bay windows on 16 hangars along the east and west flight lines, restoring them to their original condition.

"Adaptive reuse" is a key component of preservation efforts, he said.

"[By] using hangars and other structures as administrative offices, we're still able to maintain the historical significance of buildings, have a functional Air Force base and not affect the mission," he said. "These are historic buildings we can use in the 21st century."

Shepherd said it's the secretary of the interior's guidelines "that tell us what we can and can't to do to these buildings."

This year's Secretary of the Interior Historic Preservation Award recipients also include government and tribal employees in three other categories.

"In presenting these awards, I am giving thanks on behalf of all Americans to these extraordinary professionals for their outstanding contributions to historic preservation," Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar said. "Their skill, dedication and professionalism are ensuring that the story of America continues to be passed down to future generations."

Keith L. Bennett Named Assistant Director of the Inspection Division

2011-09-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Keith L. Bennett assistant director of the FBI’s Inspection Division. Mr. Bennett most recently served as deputy assistant director for the FBI’s Training Division.

Mr. Bennett began his career as an FBI special agent in 1987 and was initially assigned to the Salt Lake City Division. While there, he investigated white-collar crime and drug violations. He transferred to the San Diego Division, where he served from 1993 to 1998.

In 1998, Mr. Bennett was promoted to supervisory special agent at FBI Headquarters, where he provided support to the organized crime and drug programs. Two years later, he returned to the San Diego Division, where he supervised drug intelligence, counterterrorism, and alien smuggling squads and directed the San Diego Joint Terrorism Task Force.

While in San Diego, he served temporarily at FBI Headquarters as a team leader in the Inspection Division. He conducted inspections of field offices, Headquarters entities, and legal attaché offices.

In 2005, Mr. Bennett was appointed as assistant special agent in charge (ASAC) of the Phoenix Division. As ASAC, he was program manager of international and domestic terrorism, counterintelligence, and intelligence programs. He oversaw the special operations group, training, and SWAT programs.

He subsequently served as a special assistant to Director Mueller, where he provided counsel to the Director on policy and administrative matters. After serving as special assistant, he was selected as special agent in charge of the Cincinnati field office in 2007.

Mr. Bennett graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and earned a degree in mechanical engineering. He served on active duty from 1978 through 1983, and as a reservist from 1983 to 1987, earning the rank of lieutenant commander. After serving in the military, he served as a consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton in Washington, D.C.

Mark F. Giuliano Named Executive Assistant Director of the National Security Branch

2011-09-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Mark F. Giuliano as the new executive assistant director of the National Security Branch (NSB) at FBI Headquarters (FBIHQ). He most recently served as assistant director of the Counterterrorism Division at FBIHQ.

“I am confident that under Mark’s leadership in managing international and domestic counterterrorism investigations, NSB will continue its strategic focus and address new and emerging threats that endanger the United States and its citizens,” said Director Mueller.

Prior to his appointment as assistant director, Mr. Giuliano was the deputy assistant director for Operations Branch II, Counterterrorism Division at FBIHQ. He oversaw all domestic terrorism operations in the United States.

He was section chief of the Domestic Terrorism and Strategic Operation Section, and before his career in the Counterterrorism Division, he served as assistant special agent in charge of national security for the Atlanta Division. He was responsible for FBI counterterrorism and counterintelligence operations in Georgia, as well as that field office’s multi-agency Field Intelligence Group and Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Mr. Giuliano served as the FBI’s on-scene commander in Afghanistan, where he led a group of FBI personnel who supported U.S. Special Forces components.

He was assigned as supervisory special agent of the Atlanta Division’s violent crimes and international terrorism squads. Prior to his assignment in Atlanta, Mr. Giuliano served in the Violent Crimes Section at FBIHQ, where he was responsible for the fugitive and Top Ten programs.

Mr. Giuliano’s FBI career started at the Washington Field Office’s Safe Streets and Gang Task Force. He also served on the Special Weapons and Tactics team as an assault team leader. He received the Director’s Award for Excellence in investigation as a distinguished recipient.

David Cuthbertson Named Assistant Director of the Criminal Justice Information Services Division

2011-09-06T12:20:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named David Cuthbertson assistant director of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division. Mr. Cuthbertson most recently served as special agent in charge of the El Paso Division.

Mr. Cuthbertson entered on duty as a special agent in 1988 and was assigned to the Cincinnati Division working motorcycle and violent street gangs and drug trafficking matters. In 1992, he transferred to the Dallas Division, where he investigated Mexican drug trafficking organizations. He was also assigned to the Plano Resident Agency, where he investigated white-collar crime, drug trafficking, and violent crime.

In 1997, Mr. Cuthbertson was promoted to a supervisory position in the Criminal Investigative Division. He also served as acting unit chief of the Latin American Unit and was later promoted to serve as field supervisor of the Denver Division’s Metro Gang Task Force. He eventually assumed program coordinator responsibilities for the organized crime and drug programs and supervised a criminal enterprise squad that was co-located with three multi-agency task forces.

Mr. Cuthbertson transferred to the Chicago Division in 2002, where he served as assistant special agent in charge of the Criminal Enterprise Branch. In 2004, he was given responsibility for the division’s international terrorism and domestic terrorism programs.

In 2003, Mr. Cuthbertson was designated as inspector in place and subsequently served as such during the inspections of the Cleveland, Buffalo, Laboratory, and Philadelphia Divisions.

Mr. Cuthbertson was promoted to section chief in the Criminal Justice Information Services Division in 2005. Shortly after, in 2006, he was promoted to deputy assistant director within the division.

Prior to the start of his FBI career, he graduated magna cum laude from William Jewel College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration and economics. He worked in the private industry as a staff accountant and accounting manager.

New FBI Deputy Director

2011-09-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

Director Robert S. Mueller, III has announced that after 23 years of service, Deputy Director Timothy P. Murphy will retire from the FBI next month to take a position in the private sector. He has appointed Executive Assistant Director Sean M. Joyce to serve as the FBI’s next deputy director.

Director Mueller noted, “Tim Murphy has earned the respect and admiration of his FBI colleagues and that of the entire law enforcement and intelligence community. He will be missed.”

Mr. Murphy entered on duty as a special agent in September 1988. Since joining the FBI, his assignments included work in the Newark, Tampa, and Washington, D.C. Field Offices. He also served as special agent in charge of the Cincinnati Field Office. His positions at FBI Headquarters included assistant director of the Finance Division and associate deputy director. In the field, he managed investigative matters ranging from counterterrorism and organized crime to special operations.

***

Mr. Joyce began his Bureau career as a special agent in 1987. He was first assigned to the Dallas Division, where he investigated violent crimes. He later worked on Colombian drug matters out of the Miami Field Office. In 1994, he became a member of the Bureau’s Hostage Rescue Team.

In 1998, Mr. Joyce returned to the Dallas Field Office and become a supervisory special agent over the violent crimes squad in 2001. He earned the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service in 2004 for his work on a Dallas Division counterterrorism squad. He received the same award again a year later for his work on another counterterrorism matter.

In 2007, he joined the Washington Field Office as an assistant special agent in charge. The following year, he was named chief of the Counterterrorism Division’s International Terrorism Operations Section, with responsibility for international terrorism matters within the United States.

In 2009, Mr. Joyce was appointed assistant director of the FBI’s International Operations Division. He had previously served as the legal attaché in Prague and received an award for investigative excellence for his work in that country.

Since 2010, Mr. Joyce has been serving as executive assistant director of the National Security Branch, where he is responsible for the Bureau’s national security and intelligence operations.

Director Mueller said, “Sean Joyce has made tremendous contributions to the Bureau and met tough challenges head-on. I have every expectation that he will do the same as deputy director.”

National Guard Association honors Wisconsinites

2011-08-31T15:27:00.000-07:00

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Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs Office

Two Wisconsin residents - a National Guard officer and a civilian - received awards today (Aug. 29) at the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) annual convention in Milwaukee.

Capt. Jason Crabb, of Verona, chief of future operations with the Wisconsin National Guard Joint Staff, is one of six national recipients of the Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award for Company Grade Officers. A Wisconsin Air National Guard member for 14 years with three years in the active component Air Force, he spent many years as the officer in charge of the Wisconsin National Guard's Joint Operations Center. His performance in that role prompted his nomination.

"It's an honor and a privilege to receive this award," he said. "I'm glad to have the opportunity to represent Wisconsin on our home turf."

Lt. Col. David May, with the Wisconsin National Guard's operations directorate for military support, has supervised Crabb for nearly three years in the Joint Operations Center.

"When I saw the award, Jason was the first one I thought of," May said. "He's an outstanding leader. He understands operations, he's a strategic thinker, he's mature beyond his years and has the experience to back him up."

According to the award citation, "His ardent and steadfast efforts, combined with shrewd resource management and development of assigned personnel, has enabled the Wisconsin Joint Operations Center to grow into a robust and mature asset critical to the Wisconsin National Guard's response capability."

Crabb said the award is not an individual achievement, noting that outstanding officers and noncommissioned officers are responsible for a successful Joint Operations Center.

Jennifer Van Kirk, of Brookfield, a partner in the Milwaukee law firm Peckerman, Klein and Van Kirk since 2009, is one of five national recipients of the Patrick Henry Award. A Wisconsin National Guard Family Program volunteer since 2004, Van Kirk has served in several volunteer positions and on the Family Program's state advisory council. In 2010 she was named to the Pro Bono Honor Roll for providing pro bono legal services to service members, veterans and families of service members in Wisconsin.

"Those who know me well know that I am rarely speechless," she said. "However, I am at a loss for words because of the magnitude of this recognition. The National Guard family, both service members and volunteers, is filled with kind and hardworking people, full of integrity and courage. To be chosen by that same National Guard family, and nominated by people for whom I have great respect, is an unparalleled honor for me."

Van Kirk said she volunteers because she enjoys helping families and service members, and has enjoyed opportunities to learn, observe deployment training, and hear Gen. William Casey, Jr., former Army Chief of Staff.

"I have also had the distinct pleasure of meeting amazing service members, family members and volunteers who will be my lifelong friends," she said.

Maj. Gen. Don Dunbar, adjutant general of Wisconsin, said both recipients deserved their awards.

"The Wisconsin National Guard is blessed to have individuals such as Capt. Crabb and Ms. Van Kirk who embody the dedication and devotion of our organization," Dunbar said. "The bedrock of the National Guard rests upon professionalism, volunteerism and family. Without those vital components, we could not succeed in our mission to safeguard community and country."

The Theodore Roosevelt Leadership Award, first presented in 2006, recognizes the achievements and dedicated service of Army and Air junior officers who demonstrate outstanding leadership and professionalism in their service to country and community. The Patrick Henry Award, created in 1989, recognizes local officials and civic leaders who distinguish themselves by exceptional service to the U.S. Armed Forces, the National Guard or NGAUS.

The 133rd NGAUS Convention is a three-day conference including keynote speakers, discussion on important legislative issues, and access to the largest defense industry trade show. The event began Saturday (Aug. 27) at the Frontier Airlines Center Exhibit Hall in downtown Milwaukee.

Timothy J. Delaney Named Special Agent in Charge of the Criminal Division at the Los Angeles Field Office

2011-08-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III named Timothy J. Delaney special agent in charge of the FBI’s Criminal Division at the Los Angeles Field Office. Mr. Delaney most recently served as section chief for the New Agent’s Training Program Section in the FBI’s Training Division. In this role, he was responsible for the development and delivery of training programs for new special agents.

Mr. Delaney completed new agent training in Quantico, Virginia in 1991. He worked in the New York Field Office for nine years, where was assigned to the Manhattan office and investigated a variety of white-collar crime matters.

After serving in New York, Mr. Delaney was promoted to unit chief at FBI Headquarters in the Criminal Investigative Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit from July 2000 to December 2004. He oversaw the efforts of more than 400 investigators and managed a budget of more than $114 million. In this role, he was also a frequent lecturer on health care fraud at major conferences and training sessions.

From January 2005 to June 2008, Mr. Delaney served as assistant special agent in charge in the Miami Field Office. He managed division’s white-collar crime, cyber, and civil rights programs. In addition to this, he oversaw the efforts of special agents and intelligence analysts. While in Miami, the division dismantled criminal enterprises resulting in convictions of Washington, D.C. lobbyist Jack Abramoff, several county commissioners, and three police corruption rings.

Mr. Delaney is a native of Queens, New York. Prior to the start of his FBI career in 1991, he graduated from Sienna College in Albany, New York with a degree in accounting. He worked in investment banking at Banque Paribas in New York City and served five years in the U.S. Army Reserves, leaving as a first lieutenant. Mr. Delaney is married and has three children.

Department of Justice Announces New Acting Director of ATF and Senior Advisor in the Office of Legal Policy

2011-08-30T15:22:00.000-07:00

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WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today announced the appointments of U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota B. Todd Jones to serve as Acting Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and ATF Acting Director Kenneth Melson to become Senior Advisor on forensic science in the Office of Legal Policy (OLP).

“As a seasoned prosecutor and former military judge advocate, U.S. Attorney Jones is a demonstrated leader who brings a wealth of experience to this position,” said Attorney General Eric Holder. “I have great confidence that he will be a strong and steady influence guiding ATF in fulfilling its mission of combating violent crime by enforcing federal criminal laws and regulations in the firearms and explosives industries.”

Jones will continue to serve in the capacity of U.S. Attorney when he assumes the role of ATF acting director on Aug. 31, 2011.

A veteran of the Justice Department, Jones has served as U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota under two presidential administrations. He first served from 1998 to 2001. He was nominated again in 2009 by President Obama and has been in that role since being confirmed that year.

In 2009, the Attorney General appointed him to serve as chair of the Attorney General Advisory Committee (AGAC), a group of U.S. Attorneys appointed to advise the Attorney General on policy, management and operational issues affecting U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Jones previously served as a member, vice chair and chair of the AGAC from 1999 to 2001.

During his several years as a federal prosecutor, Jones conducted grand jury investigations and has been the lead trial lawyer in many federal prosecutions involving drug trafficking, firearms, financial fraud and violent crime.

Throughout his career, Jones has served as a partner with Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi (2001-2009); a partner with Greene Espel, PLLP (2001; 1994-1997); First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota (1997-1998); and Assistant U.S. Attorney (1992-1994).

Following admission to the Minnesota bar, Jones went on active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor in a number of courts martial proceedings.

Jones received his B.A. from Macalester College in 1979 and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1983.

Melson will join OLP on Aug. 31, 2011, in his new role as senior advisor where he will focus on issues relating to policy development in forensic science.

“Ken brings decades of experience at the department and extensive knowledge in forensic science to his new role and I know he will be a valuable contributor on these issues,” said Attorney General Holder. “As he moves into this new role, I want to thank Ken for his dedication to the department over the last three decades.”

He is a past president and distinguished fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, and currently participates on behalf of the department on the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Laboratory Accreditation Board. He has been an adjunct professor at George Washington University for almost 30 years teaching both law and forensic science courses.

Melson was appointed acting director of ATF in 2009. Prior to that, he was director of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys and served several years in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

Melson received his B.A. from Denison University in 1970 and his J.D. from George Washington University in 1973.

Leadership the FBI Way

2011-08-28T23:02:00.000-07:00

Kathleen McChesney “is the only female special agent to be named the Bureau’s executive assistant director. After a thirty-year career in law enforcement, she held leadership positions at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Walt Disney Company, and since 2007 she has consulted with businesses and non-profit organizations. She lives in Los Angeles.” Kathleen McChesney is the co-author of Pick Up Your Own Brass: Leadership the FBI Way.

William Gavin “is a twenty-eight-year veteran of the FBI who attained the agency’s highest rank of assistant director in charge. He has held executive positions in the health care industry and for a security services provider, and has been a commentator for MSNBC, Fox News, and CNN. He currently serves as a business consultant. He lives in Boston. William Gavin is the co-author of Pick Up Your Own Brass: Leadership the FBI Way.

According to the book description of Pick Up Your Own Brass: Leadership the FBI Way, “In FBI terms, leaders who pick up their own brass casings at the firing range are more effective than those who expect someone else to do it for them. To those at the bureau, this small action speaks louder than words and is largely indicative of a person’s overall management style. Through a host of real-life FBI stories, from the streets to the corner offices, Pick Up Your Own Brass: Leadership the FBI Way reveals the leadership qualities that have enabled the bureau to successfully navigate through a century of war, espionage, organized crime, terrorism, fraud, and corruption. Offering fifty essential leadership lessons based on challenges that FBI officials have faced over the course of their careers, this book can help anyone—established leaders, aspiring leaders, minority leaders, and even “accidental executives” who find themselves managing more than they imagined—build a culture of leadership.”

One reader of Pick Up Your Own Brass: Leadership the FBI Way said, “Pick Up Your Own Brass, with its fascinating human-interest stories of the FBI, and valuable insights into human behavior, is far more than a guidance book to effective leadership in a topnotch organization. Each chapter is thoughtfully laid out to teach valuable lessons by setting down memorable examples of the decision making process, and reinforcing the major points raised at the end of each anecdote. In doing so, this book is effectively instructional, but flows seamlessly like a fast-paced novel. In gaining the 'inside scoop' on leadership from the managers who worked at the highest level of the FBI organization, Kathy McChesney and Bill Gavin lay out the leadership traits necessary for an effective, cohesive unit in any organization, paralleling many of the traits that our founding fathers adhered to in governing: integrity, measured forethought, well-planned out action, prideful humbleness, healthy pliable ego, true love of leadership, cooperative spirit, calculated articulateness, and above all surrendering one's personal gain, acclaim, and hubris for the good of the whole. This book is not only for law enforcement institutions and business managers, but also for anyone who wants advice on how to lead effectively in any area of life--how to take direct charge when it's called for, but to reverentially step back and lead indirectly through capable and talented subordinates at other times; and, most importantly, to give credit where credit is due. The leadership examples set forth in this book, the basis of FBI success since the early 1900s, have been shown by vast experience to be effective strategies in keeping this country safe from criminal and terrorist elements. The authors should be commended for creating an eloquent and structured work comprising some very personal inside experiences of the FBI, both pros and cons, so that others may learn how to effectively lead.”

Jennifer S. Love Named Assistant Director of the Security Division

2011-08-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

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Director Robert S. Mueller, III has named Jennifer S. Love assistant director of the FBI’s Security Division. Ms. Love most recently served as acting assistant director of the FBI’s Inspection Division.

Ms. Love began her career with the FBI as a financial analyst in the St. Louis Division and completed new agents training in Quantico, Virginia in 1987. She started her career as an FBI special agent in the New Orleans Division, then the Chicago Division, and later returned to the New Orleans Division’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency. Ms. Love investigated white-collar crime, violent crime, and civil rights matters.

In 1997, she was appointed as a supervisory special agent in the Office of Professional Responsibility at FBI Headquarters. Ms. Love transferred to the Philadelphia Division in 1999 in a supervisory role, where she led a white-collar crime/computer intrusions squad.

Ms. Love was named assistant special agent in charge in the Baltimore Field Office in 2002. Then in 2005, she returned to Headquarters as section chief in the Counterterrorism Division. She oversaw administrative functions and programs, and later oversaw the Counterterrorism Division’s Communication Exploitation Section.

In 2006, Ms. Love reported to the Washington Field Office as special agent in charge of the Criminal Division. She was appointed as special agent in charge of the Richmond Division in 2008. In 2010, she served as deputy assistant director in the Inspection Division, where she oversaw the Office of Inspections, Inspection Strategic Analysis Section, Internal Investigations Section, and External Audit Section.

Ms. Love is native of Mississippi and holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Jackson State University. Ms. Love worked in the private sector prior to her FBI career.

Guardian of Justice Award

2011-08-21T16:24:00.000-07:00

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FBI Agent Honored for Mortgage Fraud, Credit History Fraud Investigations; Buchanan County/St. Joseph Team Honored for Arrest of Violent Fugitive Under Fire

KANSAS CITY, MO—Beth Phillips, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, presented area law enforcement officers with the Guardian of Justice Award last night during the 9th annual LECC Training Seminar in Springfield, Mo.

The annual Guardian of Justice Award recognizes a state or local officer as well as a federal agent for investigative excellence, selfless collaboration, tireless trial support, commendable diligence and professionalism, and noteworthy assistance to prosecution. The prestigious law enforcement award is presented by the U.S. Attorney each year during the law enforcement training conference.

FBI Special Agent Julia Jensen was the federal recipient of the Guardian of Justice Award. This is based on her work investigating mortgage fraud and credit history fraud cases during the past year, but also reflects her work on many other mortgage fraud cases in prior years. Mortgage fraud has been a scourge on Kansas City in recent years, but Jensen’s work has helped to stem the tide. Due largely to her tireless investigations, the Western District of Missouri has been among the leading districts in the country in terms of number of defendants prosecuted for mortgage fraud. She was among the first in the nation to identify credit history fraud and, as a result, this district charged the first credit history fraud case in the country in August 2010, which received nationwide media attention. In the process, Jensen has become a leading national expert on this subject.

Five members of the Buchanan County/St. Joseph Police Department Special Response Team—Detective Sergeant Eric Protzman, Detectives Steve McClintick and Shane Luikart, Officer Jason Stron, and Buchanan County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Tiger Parsons—were the state and local recipients of the Guardian of Justice Award. These Special Response Team members distinguished themselves during their arrest of an armed federal fugitive and violent offender who fired upon the officers before he was taken into custody.

Buchanan County/St. Joseph Police Department Special Response Team

An arrest warrant had been issued for Christopher A. Punzo for both a state violation as well as a violation of his supervised release on a prior federal conviction. Armed with two loaded firearms, Punzo had barricaded himself in a small bedroom of a St. Joseph, Mo., residence. The Buchanan County/St. Joseph Police Department Special Response Team responded to the scene, but Punzo resisted hostage negotiators attempts to peacefully arrest him.

After several hours of negotiation and deployment of tear gas in an attempt to force Punzo to surrender, team members Protzman, McClintick, Luikart, Strong, and Parsons entered the bedroom to take Punzo into custody. Punzo aimed a loaded revolver at the approaching officers, which they knocked from his hand by shooting him with bean bags. Punzo then pointed a loaded assault rifle at the officers and fired a round, striking Strong in the leg and hitting his thigh holster and sidearm.

Punzo tried to fire additional rounds from the assault rifle at the officers before one of the officers grabbed the barrel of the rifle and forcibly took it from him while another team member grabbed Punzo.

On June 29, 2010, Punzo was indicted for being a felon in possession of firearms. He was sentenced on April 7, 2011, to 10 years in federal prison without parole, the maximum penalty. Because Punzo had violated conditions of his supervised release in the earlier federal case, he was also sentenced to a consecutive two years in federal prison without parole, for a total prison term of 12 years.

FBI Special Agent Julia Jensen

It is likely that in no other area of local law enforcement has one agent made a broader impact to deter a specific type of crime than Jensen has in the area of mortgage fraud. She spots new trends and stays on the pulse of what types of fraud are going on, and who the perpetrators are, and then one by one, she prepares strong, winning cases against them. Preparing successful mortgage fraud cases requires laborious work to gather all of the myriad necessary documents, and painstaking attention to detail to uncover the scheme and prepare it for prosecution. Usually, dozens of witnesses must be carefully interviewed.

Jensen frequently lectures to professionals in the mortgage and real estate industry and others about how to avoid these fraud schemes, which are constantly being reinvented.

While investigating mortgage fraud, Jensen noticed that subjects appeared to be doing things that affected their credit histories. She began investigating this conduct and came to realize the subjects were manipulating and falsifying their credit histories as a way to circumvent the protections and increased credit requirements imposed following the mortgage meltdown. Credit history fraud is extremely problematic since lenders rely heavily on credit scores and credit histories in making lending decisions, and most lenders have not realized the possibility that credit histories and scores may be manipulated and falsified. Her investigation resulted in the first federal indictment for credit history fraud (U.S. v. Washam-Hawkins, et al).

Among her most recent cases, Jensen investigated a significant mortgage fraud scheme with 19 defendants in a $12.6 million conspiracy that involved 25 upscale residential properties in Lee’s Summit, Mo., and Raymore, Mo. All of the defendants have pleaded guilty (U.S. v. Clark, et al). Jensen also investigated an $11 million mortgage fraud scheme with nine defendants (U.S. v. Turner, et al), several of whom have pleaded guilty.

Face of Defense: Motivated Marine Succeeds in Afghanistan

2011-08-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

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By Marine Corps Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

2nd Marine Division

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan, Aug. 18, 2011 – Marine Corps Cpl. Austin Barton of Charleston, S.C., keeps his “ear to the ground” here as he monitors enemy activity to inform and safeguard his fellow service members.

Barton serves as the combat operations center watch chief with the 2nd Marine Division’s intelligence section here, analyzing activity in the division’s area of operations and briefing the intelligence section. He also acts as a liaison to ground commanders.

“I focus on what is going on in the battle space on a constant basis -- where the enemy is, where they are attacking,” Barton explained. “I have to analyze that and provide [an] operational picture to the intelligence section. While doing that, I also provide an intelligence picture to the operations side.”

Barton was recognized as his battalion’s noncommissioned officer of the 3rd quarter for fiscal 2011, but he had built a reputation for being a stellar Marine before deploying to Afghanistan in February, said Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Richard Pinner, the collections chief for the division’s intelligence section.

Knowing this, Pinner said, Barton’s supervisors wanted him to assume high-profile tasks and responsibilities typically reserved for much higher-ranking Marines.

“He was put in the combat operations center, which is not a desirable billet; however, it’s something that has to get done,” said Pinner, who hails from Pensacola, Fla. “He was performing the duties and tasks of a lieutenant.”

Barton, 22, has served in the Marine Corps for five years. He is a former rifleman who switched to the intelligence field when he re-enlisted. His infantry experience, Barton said, has given him an ability to see through the eyes of Marines on the ground without actually being there, a skill that prepared him well for the intelligence field.

“Understanding what [the infantryman] is looking for and understanding what they’re seeing on the battlefield without actually being there aids you significantly when trying to provide an intelligence picture,” he said. “[It] really helps, because you have the opportunity to speak from both sides and bring that middle ground when ideas don’t meet.”

Barton’s job proficiency and leadership ability are well known in the intelligence section, said Marine Corps 1st Lt. Joseph Timoteo, the division’s intelligence operations center watch officer.

“Corporal Barton is the most intense and enthusiastic Marine that I’ve met in the [intelligence section],” said Timoteo, a Philadelphia native. “The longer he’s been here, the more enthusiastic he’s become about his job. Then he pushes that off on others, and it’s refreshing to see.”

Barton said his drive to perform comes from his love of being a Marine in what he believes is the pinnacle of any Marine’s career -- being deployed.

“My motivation comes from being out here [in Afghanistan],” he said. “Being deployed is the greatest part of [a Marine’s] career, because that’s when [they] are really affecting the rest of the world.”

Face of Defense: British NCO Trains Future Marine Leaders

2011-08-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

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By Marine Corps Cpl. Jahn R. Kuiper

The Quantico Sentry

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va., Aug. 16, 2011 – British Royal Marine Colour Sgt. Richy Asson strives to provide challenging, safe and proper training in his job as the physical training advisor at the U.S. Marine Officer Candidate School here.

Asson works directly with the commanding officer to decide the most effective and safest way for candidates to train, and he also oversees the U.S. Marine physical training instructors.

Few people know how a British Royal Marine earned the position where he helps train future American officers. It began in 1972, Asson said, when two high-ranking officers from OCS and the Royal Marines Commando Training Center in Devon, England, got together.

“The story goes that because the [U.S. Marine Corps] doesn’t have a [military specialty] that’s a physical training expert, the American officer asked us to send one of our physical training instructors to head up training here at OCS,” Asson said. “In exchange, they would send an infantry trained gunnery sergeant to be the advisor to one of our platoon commanders and help administrate one of our platoons of enlisted recruits going through the Royal Marines Commando Training Center. It was a classic ‘switcharoo.’”

After 20 years of service in the British Royal Marines, 15 of them as a physical training instructor, and after heading the physical training course at the Royal Marines Commando Training Center, Asson was told he would be making the trip across the pond in 2010.

Asson said he was delighted to be chosen.

“In our field, this is the most prestigious job, and I’m honored to be here,” he said. “This is the job everyone wants, because you get to come to America and be an advisor to the colonel, you’re pretty much on your own, and [you] get to run things how you see fit. And you get to help mold the candidates here at OCS.”

It’s important for the officer candidates to train safely, Asson said.

“I make sure the courses here are safe to train on. For example, if the obstacle course has ice on it, I’ll shut it down,” he said. “I make sure the candidates stay safe and see to it that the instructors conduct training properly.”

The leadership at OCS considers Asson’s role to be vital.

“The Marine Corps doesn’t have a physical training expert as a job, so the knowledge and experience he brings is crucial,” said Col. Rick Jackson, the OCS commanding officer. “He is the one that ensures the candidates are meeting the physical standards expected of our graduates and recommends if they are prepared for the rigors of the basic school.

“He is the duty expert,” the colonel continued, “and without him we would really just be guessing on what the best training would be. Just like a battalion has a gunner as a weapons expert, he is our expert, and I consult with him on all physical training matters.”

But this wasn’t only a commitment for the colour sergeant, but also for his wife and famil,y who came to America with him on the two-year tour.

“I have my wife, Nickey, and my 13-year-old twins, Billy and Megan, here with me,” Asson said. “It was hard, especially for the twins, to adjust with school and all, but now they all are really enjoying being here in America.”

Asson said he strives to excel at his mission at OCS.

“I always make sure I give 100 percent and give a good showing of myself,” Asson said. “If I drop my standard, it looks bad on not only OCS but also the Royal Marines. I’m the only one here, so I must give my all to maintain the image of my service. I approach my mission here with the utmost importance.”

Norfolk Sailor Honored by National Corrections Association

2011-08-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

By Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- A Sailor assigned to Naval Brig Norfolk was recognized as Navy Corrections Service Member of the Year by the American Correctional Association (ACA) in Kissimmee, Fla., Aug 8.

Chief Gunner's Mate (EXW/SW/AW) Antoine O. Flood, who serves as the senior corrections counselor at Naval Brig Norfolk, received his award during a banquet at the ACA's annual Congress of Correction.

"Chief Flood is phenomenal. His inner strength and tireless motivation has set him at the top of the corrections specialist field," said Capt. Ken Dalton, commander, Naval Brig Norfolk. "His influence significantly increased the potential for more than 350 prisoners to return to duty or civilian life with the correct attitude to succeed in the future."

Navy brigs are staffed by officers and enlisted Sailors who volunteer for brig duty during shore rotations. Flood reported to Naval Brig Norfolk February 2009 after completing corrections training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Soon after he joined the staff at Naval Brig Norfolk, Flood assumed greater responsibly when he qualified as a correctional counselor working to rehabilitate prisoners in his charge.

"Assignment to brig staff provides exceptional opportunities for members to enhance their leadership qualities without regard to their military specialty," said Timothy Purcell, deputy director Corrections & Programs, Navy Personnel Command, who joined Flood at the ACA conference. "The Navy has taken an assertive role in military corrections by notable commitment to professionalism, application to rehabilitation programs, and adherence to standards of the American Correctional Association."

Flood is one of 600 Sailors currently staffing the Navy's consolidated brigs, pretrial confinement facilities and brig detachments around the world. Brig assignments fall under shore special programs detailing and provide Sailors an opportunity to gain experience outside their enlisted rating.

Flood said the driving philosophy of Navy corrections is to return prisoners back to the Navy or society better prepared to be productive and offense-free individuals.

"Rehabilitating these individuals back into society or giving them a second chance at serving their country is a win/win situation for them and for society as a whole," said Flood. "As brig staff you aren't just keepers of the gate, you are the gateway to a better society.

Sailors can learn more about brig duty in the shore special programs section of the Navy Personnel Command (NPC) website at npc.navy.mil.

FBI to Hire More Special Agents

2011-08-15T10:34:00.001-07:00

NEWARK, NJ—The FBI is now accepting applications for the special agent position from now until September 23, 2011. In addition to the traditional background in law or accounting, the FBI is also seeking individuals with skill sets in information technology or computer science, intelligence, engineering, science (biology, chemistry, physics, etc.), foreign language fluency (particularly in languages that involve our national security interests, such as Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Farsi, Punjabi, etc.), military and law enforcement. Applicants may also apply under what the Bureau terms the “Diversified” category, which encompasses all other disciplines.

Applicants should be U.S. citizens and have at least a four year undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university and three years of professional work experience. If the applicant has a master’s degree or higher, a minimum of two years of professional work experience is required. Selections of new agent candidates are based on the applicant’s demonstrated experience in the special agent core competencies: leadership, oral and written communication, initiative and motivation, interpersonal skills, adaptability and flexibility, organizing, planning and prioritizing, and evaluating information and making decisions. Applicants must also pass a written examination, a panel interview, a thorough background check to include a polygraph examination, and a strenuous physical fitness test. The application process for all FBI positions begins with an online questionnaire. Once the questionnaire is satisfactorily completed, the FBI will contact that applicant for further information and instruction. A further explanation of these requirements and the entire application process can be found at fbijobs.gov. Anyone interested in applying for the special agent position should thoroughly review this website, including FBI Employment Disqualifiers, FBI Drug Policy and FBI Background Investigation process, to ensure compliance prior to applying. Please do not call the field office with application questions as the answers to the most commonly asked questions can be found online.

Save the Cat

2011-08-12T19:39:00.000-07:00

As a writer I am sometimes asked questions about the process of writing. I do my share of asking, also. Recently, I participated in the filming of an episode of Killer Minds hosted by best-selling author Marcus Sakey. I spent a couple of hours with him and grilled him on his storytelling. One of the best tidbits I took out of the conversation was the book Save the Cat. Marcus highly recommended as the best explanation of the Three Act Structure. I have learned more in this book than ANY other I have read. While author focuses on writing screen plays, the information is easily transferable to novels, etc. With nine non-fiction books to my credit, it’s time to take a crack at a different kind of storytelling.

I am now passing the recommendation to you; if you want to write, get Save the Cat.

Senior Wisconsin Army Guard leaders visit basic training recruits

2011-08-10T15:53:00.000-07:00

By 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson

112th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Basic training is where most Soldiers first learn about the "battle buddy" concept - a partnership where two Soldiers watch out for each other in training, combat and non-combat environments. This mutually beneficial arrangement provides accountability, safety and companionship.

If two is good, two dozen might be even better. Last week, senior Wisconsin Army National Guard leaders visited 24 of their young Soldiers assigned to the same basic training company at Fort Benning. Ga., to see the "buddy platoon" concept in action.

According to Lt. Col. Eric Killen, recruiting and retention battalion commander, the buddy platoon is not a new concept, but the Wisconsin Army National Guard has not employed it since 1985.

"In fact, I was a member of a buddy platoon in 1985," Killen recalled. "Maj. Gen. Raymond Matera, the adjutant general, came to visit us."

The idea is to ease the sometimes daunting transition from civilian to Soldier by surrounding young recruits with others that may be in their same National Guard unit or from the same hometown.

"[The Recruiting and Retention Battalion] decided to bring it back as we felt it would be a good way to provide our Soldiers instant camaraderie and a support structure," Killen said.

The concept may have merit, considering that the 24 buddy platoon recruits will be high school seniors less than a week after graduating basic training.

"The sense I got ... was that they liked being in a buddy platoon," Killen said, adding that the recruits he asked liked having someone at basic that they knew, and indicated the buddy platoon system should continue.

"I'm actually having fun with it," Pvt. Jonathan Huston of Algoma, Wis. - a member of Company B, 2nd Battalion, 127th Infantry in Green Bay - said about boot camp.

"I've been learning a lot," added Pvt. Jordan Hauge of Willard, Wis. - a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 128th Infantry in Arcadia, Wis.

"It's been fast, but hot," said Pvt. Stephan Shambrook of Argyle, Wis. - a member of Troop C, 105th Cavalry in Reedsburg, Wis. "I can't wait until we're done. Overall, it's hard, but if I could choose to do it over again, I would."

All three indicated that they are considering serving for 20 years. Hauge said he wanted to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather Jim Hauge, a World War II veteran who served more than 20 years in the Army.

Brig. Gen. Mark Anderson, commander of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, commended the Wisconsin National Guard recruits during the visit.

"The fact that you signed up while our country is actively engaged in two wars says a lot about your character," Anderson said. "Thank you."

State Command Sgt. Maj. George Stopper told the recruits that they had matured as a result of good leaders who guided them to the right path. He urged them, once they return to the Recruit Sustainment Program before attending their advanced individual training courses next summer, to help their fellow recruits.

"Take the time to share what you've learned," he said.

32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Command Sgt. Maj. Rafael Conde cautioned the recruits - who all belong to subordinate units of the 32nd Brigade - that their classmates will seem different.

"When you get back, you'll have changed," he said. "You'll be a Soldier. When you get back to school, you'll see things that will make you shake your head. You're different, so relax and let it go."

Huston indicated that he would feel like a "tough guy - superior to my peers" upon his return to high school. Hauge said he felt he would be "more developed" than his classmates.

"We'll have accomplished more than our friends," Shambrook said.

Conde told the recruits he was proud to wear the same uniform. Col. Martin Seifer, 32nd Brigade commander, noted that less than one percent of Americans wear the uniform of the Armed Forces.

"I'm looking forward to having you in our formations and being part of the Red Arrow," he said.

Mullen Talks Change, Leadership With Troops in Mosul

2011-08-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

By Jim Garamone

American Forces Press Service

MOSUL, Iraq, Aug. 1, 2011 – Navy Adm. Mike Mullen today got a taste of the ground truth that American service members live every day in this northern Iraqi city.

It was more than 125 degrees outside when the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff spoke to about 400 service members at the Marez gym here. He thanked them for their service, and said America was “blessed” to have them.

Mosul was a concern when he took office in 2007, the chairman noted. “Mosul was in really, really tough shape,” he said. “The violence was high, and it was al-Qaida Central.”

The change in the city is striking, Mullen said, and he thanked the service members for what they do day in and day out to give the Iraqis the chance for a democratic and free future.

The chairman also spoke to the 1st Cavalry Division’s 4th Advise and Assist Brigade about change. “There are opportunities in change, but change can also be very challenging,” he said.

The service members have made changes in Mosul, the chairman added, but change also is going to be felt in the U.S. military writ large. “Change has become a way of life for us across the board,” he said.

Mullen told the troops that a deal had been struck in the debt-ceiling debate, but that the message of the debate will have far-reaching effects for the military, repeating an opinion he frequently has expressed.

“I believe that debt is the biggest threat to our national security,” he said. “We cannot keep increasing our debt and expect the Pentagon … to get the resources we need.”

While the nation will get through these debt problems, Mullen said, the money for national defense is not an unlimited pot. “There will be tough decisions to make,” he added. “It is the first time we have been through a cycle like this when we have two wars, an all-volunteer force, the numbers of deployments and the challenges we have to deal with this.”

Retention and recruiting are high, but they will be constrained, he said. The services must keep the best people, he told the service members. He urged them to diversify their experience and get more education, because the services need highly qualified, highly educated personnel to weather this cycle.

Today’s force is the most combat-experienced force in American history, with many soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines serving multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. “One of the questions is ‘How do we sustain this over time?” he said.

Leadership will see the military through a lot of these problems, the chairman said, adding that he wants leaders at all levels to step forward.

“Anybody who is out there … [in the] front, middle or back can make a difference,” he said. “You’ve seen that in combat, [and] you’ve seen it in peace.”

Part of leadership at all levels is taking care of each other, the chairman said. All, he added, must work to eliminate sexual assaults in the military and to help service members contemplating suicide, and all have to work to eliminate any stigma associated with seeking help for post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury.

Mullen told the noncommissioned officers in the audience that they had succeeded because someone made a difference in their lives. “I ask that you do the same,” he said. “Figure it out. Pay it back that way.

“Prepare them,” he continued. “Give them opportunities for leadership, give them opportunities for responsibility, [and] give them opportunities for education and training.”