Michael D. Powell, a course developer/instructor, volunteered not only once, but twice. Powell did his first tour of duty in 2005, just following the Iraqi elections. The CBP team was attached to the U.S. Army, based near Tall Afar, Ninewah Province, Iraq. They worked the border and ports of entry between Syria and Iraq. “I was inspired by the dedication and professionalism of the U.S. military men and women. I was also moved by the incredible bravery and sacrifice displayed by many Iraqis to achieve a democratic society,” said CBPO Powell.

CBP Officer Dan Journey, another course developer/instructor, also volunteered for Iraq on two separate occasions. Officer Journey’s tour began back in June of 2005 when he assisted the Iraqi Border Police in border security issues such as keeping saboteurs, terrorists, and armaments from crossing into or out of Iraq. Officer Journey returned to Iraq in July 2006 as the senior advisor to the Iraqi Minister of the Interior. His responsibilities included border enforcement and creation of standard operating procedures to assist in port of entry development. “There is no greater public service I can do as an American than helping a country establish a democratic society. Should I be asked to volunteer for another tour, I would do it again,” says Journey.

Edmund Cassidy, assistant director of basic programs, recently returned home from a five-month tour of duty in Iraq where he served as the senior advisor to the Iraqi Minister of the Interior. Mr. Cassidy has served in federal government for more than 28 years. “Leaving my family and friends here in the States was an extremely difficult thing to do, but volunteering for Iraq was something that I felt was important in order to show support for our fellow American soldiers,” says Cassidy. “It was also a way that I could ensure the safety of our homeland.”

The director of the CBP Field Operations Academy, Art Morgan, is proud of the work these employees have done. “Despite the dangers and threats of terrorists and insurgent activity, these three individuals went above and beyond the call of duty, putting their lives in danger in an effort to help support the people of Iraq,” he says. “Thank you all for a job well done.”