IRAN – Anatomy of a Presidential Detail

the good folks over at STRATFOR posted an excellent analysis of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s security detail as he navigated the crush of the crowds during a recent public appearance.  It was during that appearance, depending on who you ask, an explosive was detonated or a firecracker thrown.  Regardless, viewing the video shows you the challenges the Iranian presidential guard faces and the marked difference between this motorcade and that of say a US President.

To watch the analysis, as a part of their Above the Tear Line series, click HERE.

See Related:  Assassination Attempt on Iran’s President

Bodyguard Training Calendar

Minneapolis, MN September 8-12th 2010 – Icon Services Corporation present a five-day course of practical theory and hands-on training in the world of Celebrity & VIP Protection. If you are new to the bodyguard industry or a current operator looking to refresh and polish your skills, this course will offer excellent instruction into the professional side of Close Protection work. Taught by industry veteran Elijah Shaw, who in addition to his corporate clients, has traveled the world as the personal bodyguard of international public figures such as musical giant Usher, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and rap megastar 50 Cent, the course will offer real world problems, scenarios, and solutions from instructors that are currently active in the industry.

“Your training is an invaluable tool to your industry. I was very impressed how realistic the training was that you provide. Having been taught by the best, I can honestly state that I learned quite a bit in your class. There is always room for improving ones skill set, and your training definitely added to mine”.

Special Agent Robert E. Jones / US Secret Service

For more information click HERE

French Prez Bans Tall Bodyguards?

Reports are coming in that French President Nicolas Sarkozy has issued an off-the-record ban on bodyguards over a certain height, because they make him look small???  According to the source (which may just be someone with an axe to grind), President Sarkozy is famously sensitive and secretive about his height of around 5′ 5″.  Full story, click HERE.

Note to the President’s advisors:  Advise him on this one.  Security definitely does not HAVE to be taller than the client they are protecting, but for Presidential Security the term “coverage” actually takes on a literal meaning.

See video after jump.

Celebrity Bodyguard Training (July 7-11)

Icon Services Corporation presents our highly regarded five-day course of practical theory and hands-on training in the world of Celebrity & VIP Protection. If you are new to the bodyguard industry or a current operator looking to refresh and polish your skills, this course will offer excellent instruction into the professional side of Close Protection work. Taught by industry veteran Elijah Shaw, who in addition to his corporate clients, has traveled the world as the personal bodyguard of international public figures such as musical giant Usher, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and rap megastar 50 Cent, the course will offer real world problems, scenarios, and solutions from instructors that are currently active in the industry.

“Your training is an invaluable tool to your industry. I was very impressed how close to realistic training you all provide. Having been taught by the best, I can honestly state that I learned quite a bit in your class. There is always room for improving ones skill set, and your training definitely added to mine.”

Special Agent Robert E. Jones / US Secret Service

to learn more visit www.Industry-Icon.com/CPC

Presidential Vehicle Security

The day before the Presidential Inauguration I had the opportunity to sit inside “The Beast” Impressive to say the least.   I remember thinking that like most things in this world, it’s not what you see on the outside that matters, but what’s hidden under the hood.

For more of the history of the vehicle protecting the sitting US President click HERE.

Bodyguard Training Course (July 7-11)

Book Alleges Secret Service Cannot Protect Obama

The President on the steps of the Washington Monument

“The U.S. Secret Service has cut corners in ways that may have jeopardized the safety of President Obama, according to a new book by a veteran Washington journalist and author, Ron Kessler.  The book, “In the President’s Secret Service: Behind the Scenes with Agents in the Line of Fire and the Presidents They Protect,” details instances of “laxness in how they protect” Obama.

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Wow.  Powerful allegations.  I’ll reserve passing any judgement until I read the entire book myself.  However, I will say that having had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Obama on multiple occasions (from when he was a rising star Senator, to his current role as Commander in Chief) and liaising with his staff, the agents entrusted with his safety have always appeared attentive and mission-focused.    I did have some concerns during my time the inauguration– the sheer size and magnitude could have been nothing but overwhelming –but was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to bring them up to key parties.  

One thing I will say is that the men and women of the United States Secret Service have a very demanding job and one that allows zero margin for error. Lopsided or not, a book like this will surely light a fire that will make some take a closer look at any deficiencies for the greater good.  

The book is due on shelves August 4th. 

At the Presidential Inauguration

Real Life James Bond outed on Facebook

The wife of Sir John Sawers, diplomat, spy, and the current British ambassador to the United Nations and soon to be the chief of MI6, — the British Secret Intelligence Service,  posted photos to her Facebook account that could possibly reveal sensitive information regarding the real life 007. The photo section in question has since been marked PRIVATE after news agencies started reporting the potential security leaks.  For the full story, click HERE.

Ok folks, social networking isn’t for everyone.

Clinton-Era Secret Service Records Stolen?

A backup hard drive which contained information regarding Former President Bill Clinton was discovered missing by the U.S. National Archives and Recording Administration (NARA). Authorities are not sure if it was “misplaced” or “stolen” but the end results are lots of confidential information is missing.

“On the drive were details about the security procedures used by the U.S. Secret Service at the White House”. For the full story, click HERE.

Not good.

Thanks M.Booth for the sourcing.

Security Gridlock with Obama UK Visit

Britain’s police and security are on high alert as US President Barack Obama arrives in London for this week’s G20 summit. The capital is hosting the largest gathering of world leaders since 1946, and the first UK visit for Mr Obama and his 500-strong entourage. Click on the link for the full story.