Q&A: Top Asked Questions About Being in the Secret Service
When people learn about my background as a former Secret Service Special Agent, I'm often met with a lot of questions. There is a great deal of fascination of what it’s like to be part of one of the most elite agencies in the world. Throughout my career, I was part of the protective detail for President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, President Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush, President George H.W. Bush, and their families. Here are the most frequently asked questions.
What's a typical day like?
Every day is truly different. One day I would be protecting the President or First Lady or a Former President and the next I might be doing an interrogation. Or perhaps traveling overseas. Or executing a search warrant. Or working on a case. There was never a typical day – perhaps that is why I loved it so much. Most people love routine. I love change.
Would you really take a bullet for the President?
Yes. 100% without a doubt. Period. The end.
What is the most stressful part of the job?
Being responsible for another human being's life. Everything began and ended with me. There were no off days. No, "I’m not feeling well" or "I’m tired." No indecision. Every day you showed up ready and able to perform.
Did you fly often?
All the time. Wherever your protectee goes – you go. And sometimes they go to places you would never visit on your own. My favorite continent by far was Africa. I spent a great deal of time in Tanzania, Rwanda, and Botswana. It was a job that allowed me to experience the world and all of its uniqueness.
How would you describe the pace of work?
Fast. Intense. You are always on. Always aware. Always accountable.
What types of things did you investigate?
I investigated many crimes. From counterfeit currency to financial scams to credit card fraud to threats against those I was sworn to protect.
Describe your scariest moment as a Secret Service Agent.
I don’t recall any. Perhaps because I did not fear my job. I loved and embraced it. I knew I was contributing to the world in a meaningful way. I carried that certainty everywhere I went. When you believe in who you are and what you do, fear takes a back seat.
Which president did you like or dislike the most?
This is by far the most asked question. Who do you like? Who do you dislike? It’s a question I never answer. When you do protection, there is a silent trust that is exchanged in order for a person to allow you into their inner circle. Loyalty is one of the 5 points of the US Secret Service Star, and so I do my best to maintain that to this day. Also, each person is unique in their own way and I’ve learned a great deal being around all the different Presidents. And I’ve never been one who enjoyed talking about people. Everyone loves the gossip. But nobody loves the gossiper.
