Sustaining Leadership Hinges on Flexibility, Policy Chief Says

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2012 – U.S. policymakers today can draw some useful lessons in managing “profound transitions” from President Harry S. Truman’s actions in 1950, the Defense Department’s policy chief said today.

In what she called her last public speech in office, Michèle Flournoy, undersecretary of defense for policy, told an audience at the Reserve Officers Association National Security Symposium here that Truman took a multidimensional response to bring about fundamental changes in America’s foreign policy.

Truman, five years after World War II ended and with a new Cold War icing relations between the United States and the Soviet Union, also had to consider a newly communist China and North Korea’s invasion of neighboring South Korea, she noted.

Truman and a “truly extraordinary” group of his senior advisors responded to the changing security landscape with a series of programs, reviews and initiatives that led to the Marshall Plan, an independent Air Force and the establishment of the Defense Department and Central Intelligence Agency, Flournoy said.

Truman’s efforts also contributed to the founding of NATO and the United Nations and set a foundation for eventual victory in the Cold War, she added.

The nation’s leaders today face an even more complex strategic era, Flournoy said: swift economic and military growth in China, asymmetric and hybrid forms of warfare incorporating growing threats in the cyber domain, proliferation of nuclear weapons, and trends from the Arab Awakening to global climate change.

“As if all this weren’t enough, in 2008 we suffered the most acute financial crisis since the Great Depression, shaking the very foundation of America’s national security -- our economic strength,” she said.

President Barack Obama has led a whole-of-government effort to ensure the nation’s security strategy accounts for all of these factors, Flournoy said. The defense strategic guidance the president announced Jan. 5 and the defense budget decisions Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta rolled out last week reflect a changed approach to America’s global responsibilities, she added.

The strategy emphasizes a focus on the Asia-Pacific region and the Middle East, reduces force size and protects investment in technology and advanced systems, she said.

Operational concepts are evolving and changing, Flournoy said, but the range of possible missions makes it critical that forces can surge, regenerate and mobilize quickly.

“The underlying theme that runs through all this is an emphasis on flexibility, agility, readiness -- on retaining capability across the full spectrum of missions,” she said. “This is the key to sustaining our leadership in an era of complex challenges and hard fiscal choices.”

One of the most discussed words in the defense strategic guidance is “reversibility,” she noted. Some commentators have seized on the word as a sign “that somehow our principles are not firmly fixed, or that our decisions on key programs are subject to rapid change,” she added.

The truth is completely different, she said: “[Reversibility] refers to our ability to make course corrections in response to strategic, economic or technological change.”

For example, she said, even as DOD reduces force size, “we will keep a relatively high proportion of mid-grade officers, who will be at a particular premium if we need to build up those forces quickly.”

Flournoy, who on Feb. 3 will leave the office she has held since February 2009, said DOD’s civil-military team has grappled with a number of national challenges in an integrated way.

During the recent debate over defense spending priorities, Panetta’s commitment to open communication only intensified as the process developed, she said.

“The strategic trumped the parochial time and time again,” Flournoy added. “This is a remarkable thing to witness.”

Flournoy said as she steps down from her current policy role, she has “a lot of faith” in defense leaders’ ability to make sound decisions as “these very difficult choices have to be made in the months and years ahead.”

“When circumstances are difficult, we as a country, as a people, do find a way to come together for the broader national interest,” she said.

MN BCA Adopts Leadership Book

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Ralph Boelter Named Assistant Director of the Counterterrorism Division

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

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

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

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

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

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.”