The Foreign Service Journal, February 2007

seas, my second regional security offi- cer wrote me up for one security vio- lation following the 12 FAM 550 process. I was impressed by the way the system worked. I received the notice of a security violation in writing and had a chance to respond. My reply was an effective defense, and I did not receive any points on my record. I assumed this to mean, there- fore, that I did not have any security infractions or violations; i.e., no points per 12 FAM 550. Later I was shocked to learn about inflammatory, exaggerated reports written by my first RSO, with whom I did not get along. I would never have learned about his reports except for surprising questions dur- ing my extremely harsh recertifica- tion interview conducted by my third RSO. These reports clearly influ- enced subsequent RSOs and set a negative tone for my entire career. If that first RSO had followed the pro- cedure set forth in 12 FAM 550, I would have had the chance to answer his charges, which I could have easi- ly done. I believe any lawyer would describe our options under 12 FAM 550 as due process. I want to believe that our Diplo- matic Security peers are honest peo- ple who feel they are doing the right thing. But, if they ignore 12 FAM 550 and collect secret reports sometimes swayed by their own prejudices and jealousies, then we are all in danger. That part of the FAM exists for a rea- son and, after my experience, I am sure it is for our protection. According to 12 FAM 553.1(a), “All security incidents will be reported to DS/ISP/APB.” 12 FAM 553.1(b) says: “Upon discovery of improperly secur- ed classified information or of other security incidents, the responsible security officer must complete Form OF-117, Notice of Security Incident.” The words “all” and “must” seem clear to me. DS officials are not doing F E B R U A R Y 2 0 0 7 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 9 L E T T E R S A time of service…a time of need Help for Seniors May Be Just a Phone Call Away— Home Health Care Adult Day Care & Respite Care Prescription Drug Copayments Transportation to Medical Appointments Durable Medical Equipment For more information, please contact the SENIOR LIVING FOUNDATION OF THE AMERICAN FOREIGN SERVICE 1716 N Street, NW Washington, DC 20036-2902 Phone: (202) 887-8170 Fax: (202) 872-9320 E-Mail: info@SLFoundation.org Web Site: www.SLFoundation.org The Senior Living Foundation may be able to help you or someone you know. Some examples of assistance are: SPONSORED BY THE AMERICAN FOREIGN SERVICE PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION