To Be a U.S. Secret Service Agent

An informative as well as visual perspective of the USSS. This is not an exhaustive review of the Secret Service but as good as it gets in such a brief volume. Highly recommended for research paper or anyone considering applying to the Secret Service.

As a former applicant for the special agent position with the Secret Service, I can say that this book prepared me very well for my initial interview. I knew the history of the agency as well as the "lingo" such as POTUS, FLOTUS and SAC when I went in for the first step. The information on each stage of the applicant process is also spot on if you are interested in trying to become an agent. Holden is not kidding when he says that few people get the chance to become one. I made it to the panel interview and then got notice that I would not continue on in the process. I would add to this book that prior law enforcement and military experience, coupled with a degree in something such as criminal justice, are really what they are looking for. They claim that LE and military isn't required, but I was warned that those two experiences are the most valued. I had a law degree and a criminal justice degree and didn't get in (no prior law enforcement experience though). Overall, the information in this book is excellent if you want to get in the process of becoming either uniformed division or an agent. It is also just a fun read if you have ever wanted to know what it is like to be an agent or how they go about protecting the president. From talking with agents, and from doing countless hours of research online and from other books, I would say this book is very accurate with its information . I would also recommend the Joe Petro book called Standing Next to History if you want en even further look into the protection aspect of the agent position. I have read some reviews knocking the pictures in the Holden book, but I found them to be entertaining and just plain cool to look at (ex. the explosion pictures next to the limos).

If you want to be a member of the U.S. Secret Service you must have Henry Holden's To Be A U.S. Secret Service Agent: it provides a blend of history and insights on the secretive law enforcement agency, from how it recruits and trains to the specialized equipment it uses to protect heads of state. To Be A U.S. Secret Service Agent is the only book to combine a history with coverage of career options and paths and as such as a top recommendation.

As a U.S. Secret Service UD applicant, I would highly recommend this book. As a former teacher and peace officer, I would recommend this book be in every middle school, high school and university. Mr. Holden has explained,through words and photographs,the application process, the training, and duties of the Secret Service agent, uniform division officer, and other members that comprise the most professional and honorable division of American law enforcement. As an applicant, it helped me learn about the position that I was applying for and helped me articulate my understanding to the agents I interviewed with. The information that I obtained in this book helped me score 97% on the tests and make it to panel. Thank you Mr. Holden for writing this book.

As the leading civilian authority on the Secret Service, I highly recommend this great book on the agency by Mr. Holden. nice pictures and easy-to-read text, as well. Two thumbs up! Vince Palamara author of "Survivor's Guilt: The Secret Service & The Failure To Protect The President"