COMING EVENTS FROM THE LATEST WEEKLY INTELLIGENCE NOTES - Use month index in right column to jump to current month:

THIS IS A LIST OF PRIOR EVENTS in 2024

Upcoming events are HERE

Programs Offered by External Organizations are HERE

January 2024

Thursday, 18 January 2024, noon-1pm – Washington, DC – Spy Chat with Chris Costa ft. Special Guest Kenneth L. Wainstein – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Kenneth L. Wainstein, Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Wainstein is responsible for providing the Secretary, DHS senior leadership, DHS components, and state, local, tribal, territorial, and private sector partners with the homeland security intelligence and information needed to keep the country safe, secure, and resilient. The Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) is a member of, and the Department's liaison to, the US Intelligence Community. Wainstein serves as the Chief Intelligence Officer for DHS and reports directly to the DHS Secretary and Director of National Intelligence. Prior to his confirmation in June of 2022, Wainstein was a litigation partner in the Washington, DC, office of Davis Polk & Wardwell. During his time in private practice, Wainstein also served as a law school adjunct professor teaching national security law, as a commissioner on the Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense, as a member of the Public Interest Declassification Board, and in a number of other national security organizations. Wainstein previously spent over 20 years in law enforcement and national security positions in the federal government including as Chief of Staff to FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III and Homeland Security Advisor to President George W. Bush. Program is free of charge but requires advanced registration. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Saturday, 20 January 2024, noon-4pm – Washington, DC – In-Store Book Signing Event: Spy Pilot with Author Gary Powers Jr. – In-Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

The Spy Museum Store is hosting a special book signing event for Spy Pilot: Francis Gary Powers, the U-2 Incident, and a Controversial Cold War Legacy with author Gary Powers Jr. He is the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Cold War Theme Study which assists the National Park Service to identify historic Cold War sites for preservation. In 2015, he consulted for a Steven Spielberg thriller, Bridge of Spies, about the 1962 spy exchange between KGB spy Rudolph Abel and CIA U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers, Sr. Gary is the author of Letters from a Soviet Prison and Spy Pilot. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Monday, 22 January 2024, 7-8:30pm – Washington, DC – AI and Emerging Technologies: Intelligence Opportunities & Challenges with Dawn Meyerriecks, David S. Cohen and Chris Inglis – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

Is Artificial Intelligence the end of intelligence operations as we know them or an exciting new way of collecting and analyzing intel? Join us for a timely discussion with experts currently grappling with the new tech and its implications for national security. Dawn Meyerriecks, former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director for Science and Technology, will moderate a conversation with the Deputy Director of the CIA David S. Cohen and Chris Inglis who served as the first National Cyber Director and is also a former Deputy Director of the National Security Agency. The speakers will explore how the US government has promoted AI safety and how it addresses security considerations resulting from this advanced tech. They will address how the intelligence community stays on top of emerging technologies and the implications of ongoing breakthroughs. They will also consider the interplay between the public sector and commercial leaders and what may lie ahead. Co-sponsored by the Council on Intelligence Issues. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Sunday, 28 January 2024, 11am-1pm – Washington, DC – Brush Pass Brunch with Eric O'Neill at The Mayflower – In Person International Spy Museum Program at Tolson in The Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave NW

Bubbles, Bribes, Blackmail…Brunch. Everyone loves brunch, even spies! Join us for an intriguing and egg-citing midday exploration of espionage while enjoying a delicious meal. Eric O'Neill will share tales from his job at the FBI where his background in surveillance led to his role as Robert Hanssen's assistant with the secret task of spying on his boss. Not that we recommend spying on your boss, but Hanssen was suspected of being a mole who was working for Russia. Eric will also reveal some spy stories involving food and drink from around the world. You'll enjoy some spy surprises, code-cracking puzzles, secret messages, and a front row seat for some re-enacted spy scenes. Brush Pass Brunch will be held at Tolson in The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection. The hotel is the scene of many famous spy stories and the restaurant is named for the FBI's longtime head J. Edgar Hoover who dined at The Mayflower daily and the private dining space Tolson is a nod to his protégé and lifelong confidant. Tolson is located in The Mayflower Hotel at 1127 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington DC 20036. Tickets are $125; members tickets are $100. Your ticket includes a choice of brunch entrée, sliced seasonal fruit, The Mayflower's famous banana bread (secret recipe), and a spy mole-mosa (a mimosa!). Visit www.spymuseum.org.

February 2024

Friday, 2 February 2024, 6:00-9:00pm – Washington, DC – Spy Fest: Family Festival – In Person International Spy Museum Program

Could you be a spy? Now's your chance to find out! Do you have the savvy to beat a lie-detector? The smarts to break a top-secret coded message? The wits to create secret writing? Families are invited to find out how they measure up at the Museum's annual Spy Fest! Learn tradecraft from experts in the field and participate in spy skill challenges that will give KidSpy recruits and their handlers an insider's peek into the shadow world of spying—and who knows, there just may be a spy or two in your midst. Tickets are free of charge as a result of a generous donation from Booz Allen Hamilton. Museum admission is included in your ticket. All attendees must have a ticket. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Monday, 5 Feb 2024, noon CST - In Person, San Antonio, TX - The San Antonio AFIO Chapter Intelligence Briefing on the Communist Chinese Military Goals

The San Antonio AFIO Chapter will have its next meeting on 5 Feb 2024 (a Monday) at 12 (noon) at Blue Skies of Texas West. The topic will be the modernization of the Communist Chinese military and para military forces and the Communist Chinese Party's plans on how they will use these forces as they advance toward becoming the Earth's global power. Chinese planners considers the neutralization of US power projection to be one of their most important goals. The presentation will be done by John Franklin, the AFIO San Antonio chapter president from unclassified materials provided to Congress. Blue Skies of Texas West members are invited to attend the program.

San Antonio AFIO Chapter members attending the meeting are to identify to the Blue Skies gate guard that you are coming for the Intelligence briefing in the Roadrunner Lounge in the Towers. AFIO visitors should use the parking lot in front of the main building which is straight ahead from the gate. AFIO members may purchase a variety of lunch meals in the cafeteria. The presentation will be in a meeting room (the Roadrunner Lounge) adjacent to the cafeteria.
Here is the link to the Blue Skies Texas West which will provide orientation to the organization and their campus.
An address to put in you phone or GPS it is: 5100 John D. Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245
RSVP to satxafio@gmail.com
Questions to John Franklin, President, AFIO San Antonio Chapter, at satxafio@gmail.com or 210 863-0430

Thursday, 8-15 February 2024, All Day – Washington, DC – Member Appreciation Days – In Person International Spy Museum Program

For our 2023 Member Appreciation Days only, our members enjoy an additional one-time-use guest pass (redeemable between February 8 and 15), an exclusive membership gift (while supplies last), 25% off their purchases at the SPY Museum Store, and entrance to our member raffle to win an exclusive SPY swag gift bag! As part of these days, we will host a Members-Only Event on Saturday, February 10th. You can join SPY as a member online or by calling 202.654.2840. If you are a current member and have questions about Member Appreciation Days, please email membership@spymuseum.org. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 8 February 2024, 6:30-8:30pm – Washington, DC – Spying Launched a Nation Whiskey Tasting Celebration with George Washington's Distillery – In Person International Spy Museum Program

Whiskey, spies, and rebellion: a winning combination for George Washington and for you this evening. Revel in the tales and tactics of the cunning spies George Washington depended on as we celebrate the Museum's newly updated exhibition Spying Launched a Nation. You'll enjoy afterhours access to the exhibit which features famed American actor Christopher Jackson telling the story of the Culper Ring. The Museum holds the original letter George Washington penned asking Nathaniel Sackett to set up a spy ring; Spying Launched a Nation is centered around this precious artifact. After exploring the exhibit, Steven T. Bashore, Director of Historic Trades and Head Distiller at George Washington's Mount Vernon, will lead you through a whiskey tasting. You'll try three whiskeys that show the progression of aging in barrels over time — in Washington's day it was all unaged rye! Join us as we cheers to Washington's innovative approach to spirits and spying on a wintery night in the month of his birth. Tickets are $150; members tickets are $130.  Your ticket includes tastings of three different whiskeys, hors d'oeuvres, and non-alcoholic beverages. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Saturday, 10 February 2024, 11:30 a.m. ET - In-Person - The AFIO Florida Satellite Chapter hosts David Hunt, retired Senior Operations Officer of CIA's Clandestine Service, discussing "Intelligence in Flux."

The Florida Satellite Chapter is hosting David Hunt, retired Senior Operations Officer of CIA's Clandestine Service. He will address "Intelligence in Flux."
Event commences at 11:30 AM at the Doubletree Hotel, 1665 North State Route A1A, Indialantic, FL 32903.

Mr. Hunt's' presentation will follow a sit-down lunch. The cost is $35.00 per person.

Questions? Or to attend, email Chapter President Laurence F. Sanford or call him at 978-502-3328.

Saturday, 10 February 2024, 10:00am – Washington, DC – Members Only: The Making of Spying Launched A Nation – In Person Members-Only International Spy Museum Program

This Valentine's Day season, in the spirit of love and gratitude, we are thrilled to invite all Spy Museum members to Member Appreciation Days. During Member Appreciation Days, join us for an exclusive look at the Museum's newly updated exhibition Spying that Launched A Nation. On Saturday, February 10th at 10 AM, Dr. Andrew Hammond, SPY's Historian and Curator, and Lauren vonBechmann, the Museum's Exhibitions Project Manager, will discuss the importance of the Culper Spy Ring, the history of the George Washington Spy Letter, and the making of a museum exhibition. Members are invited to a formal presentation in the Museum's Theater from 10 to 10:30 AM, followed by coffee and pastries and an opportunity to chat with members of the Spy Museum team. This event is free of charge and open exclusively to Spy Museum members. You can join SPY as a member online or by calling 202.654.2840. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Tuesday, 13 February 2024, 7pm – Washington, DC – WWI Series Part I: Flirting with Danger with Janet Wallach – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for a two-part look at World War I-era intelligence and operatives. As modern American intelligence took shape and intelligence personnel became essential to any senior wartime commander, the traditional spy in the shadows thrived as well. Marguerite Harrison was just such a spy. This evening Janet Wallach, author of Flirting with Danger: The Mysterious Life of Marguerite Harrison, Socialite Spy, will introduce you to this daring and glamorous woman who became a US spy and Russian double agent. Dining with aristocrats and dancing with socialists late into the night, she watched as alarming signs emerged from a broken Germany in the aftermath of World War I. Harrison saw the future in both places – a second war with Germany, a cold war with the Soviets – but was little believed back home. Wallach has written extensively about notable women in history, and she brings to life this courageous woman who was drawn to danger and adventure. After Wallach's presentation and a brief interview by Amanda Ohlke, Director of Adult Education at the International Spy Museum, we'll turn to your questions about this turbulent period and extraordinary individual! Support for this program has been provided by a generous grant from the Pritzker Military Foundation, on behalf of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 15 February 2024, 12:00-1:00pm – Washington, DC – Spy Chat with Chris Costa ft. Special Guest Uzi Arad – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Uzi Arad, former Head of Israel's National Security Council.  Arad is a well-known strategist and thought leader who is currently a Senior Fellow at the Yuval Ne'eman Workshop for Science, Technology and Security at Tel Aviv University. Arad served as National Security Advisor to Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu and Head of the Israeli National Security Council between 2009 and 2011.  He was Netanyahu's Foreign Policy Advisor from 1997 to 1999. Between 1975 and 1999 Arad served with Mossad, Israel's foreign intelligence service. He held senior positions domestically and abroad and was advisor to the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. He ultimately became Director of the Intelligence Division. Prior to his career in government, Arad was a Professional Staff Member at the Hudson Institute in New York and a Fellow at Tel Aviv University's Center for Strategic Studies. Program is free of charge but requires advanced registration. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

NOTE NEW DATE: 26 March 2024, noon EDT - In-Person at MacDill AFB, FL or by Zoom - The Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter hosts Michael Pullara on "1993 Murder of CIA Station Chief Freddie Woodruff."

The Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter is holding its upcoming luncheon at noon on Tuesday, 20 February 2024, at the MacDill AFB Activity Center (formerly the Surf's Edge Club), 7315 Bayshore Boulevard, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Our speaker is Michael A. Pullara, a veteran trial lawyer and masterful storyteller who investigated the 1993 murder of CIA Officer Freddie Woodruff and authored a thrilling true-life espionage tale. Thanks to Pullara's investigation, in 2008 the Russians ultimately freed from prison the original suspect who'd been sentenced to 15 years' hard labor for the crime.
The luncheon includes a box lunch and costs are based on timing of your reservation/response.
Early response, $15 luncheon fee, no later than noon on Tuesday, 27 February.
Response cut-off, $20 luncheon fee, no later than noon on Thursday, 14 March.

ZOOM registration cut-off, $0 fee, no later than noon on Thursday, 14 March.
If you wish to participate by ZOOM please click on the this registration link to complete the registration request before noon on Monday, 14 March 2024. This is NOT the ZOOM meeting link. Subject to approval, you will receive the ZOOM meeting link by separate email. Please check your ZOOM program in advance to ensure it is working properly and that you have the confirmed ZOOM meeting link handy to join the meeting. It is next to impossible to trouble-shoot ZOOM connections on the day of the meeting.
Questions or to attend, contact the Chapter Secretary, Michael Shapiro, for more information, mfshapiro@suncoastafio.org.

Tuesday, 27 February 2024, 2:00-3:00pm – Washington, DC – SPY with Me: Program for Individuals with Dementia and their Care Partners – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

SPY with Me is an interactive virtual program for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Join SPY as we use music and artifacts to explore some of our favorite spy stories. Programs last one hour and are held virtually through Zoom. To register, please email Shana Oltmans at soltmans@spymuseum.org. Free but space is limited. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Tuesday, 27 February 2024, 7pm – Washington, DC – WWI Series Part II: World War I and the Foundations of American Intelligence – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

In the second part of our WWI series, dive deeper into America's intelligence history with author and global security historian, Dr. Mark Stout as he discusses his new book World War I and the Foundations of American Intelligence. The book examines the army, navy, and State Department's increasing reliance on intelligence personnel around the globe during the Great War to create a new professional practitioner that transcended the Armistice to active peacetime service leading up to the founding of the Office of Strategic Services in World War II. Stout examines the breadth of American intelligence in the war, not just in France, not just at home, but around the world, and demonstrates how these far-flung efforts endured after the Armistice in 1918. For the first time, there came to be a group of intelligence practitioners who viewed themselves as different from other soldiers, sailors, and diplomats. Stout will also discuss how this gave the United States a solid foundation from which to expand to meet the needs of the second world war and the Cold War that followed. Support for this program has been provided by a generous grant from the Pritzker Military Foundation, on behalf of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

March 2024

6 March 24, 1800 hours (ET) - Virtual - The East Tennessee AFIO Chapter hosts Jennifer Daniel to discuss her 37-year IC career, including work at NGA and the DNI.

Ms. Daniel is known for her transformational leadership across diverse mission sets including collection, analysis, IT Solutions, human capital, budget management, and international relations. Among her many roles, Ms. Daniel served as the Associate Director for Enterprise at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, the Assistant Director of National Intelligence for Mission Priorities, Analysis, and Collection in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Director of NGA’s Persistent GEOINT Office. Currently, she is President of the NGA Alumni Association East, a board member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers, and CEO of JS&N Consulting LLC. Contact admin@ETNAFIO.com for Google Meet invite and/or chapter questions.

Sunday, 10 March 2024, · 2 - 3:30pm EDT - Virtual - "The Cold War: Law, Lawyers, Spies, and Crises" - Art Downey speaks to The Cold War Museum

Top Cold War political and military leaders created the strategies. Much of that depended for implementation on the work of smart lawyers. Drawing from his book The Cold War: Law, Lawyers, Spies and Crises (ABA: 2016), Art Downey will tell us about something that is largely hidden in standard accounts of the Cold War: the key role that a large number of talented lawyers had in some of the most important events during the Cold War. The most important actors during the period were the political and military strategists who wielded great power on both sides. Their plans and positions, however, were developed with the help of lawyers and new, uniquely-applied laws, international organizations, treaties, and multinational defense organizations that came from the ideas and work of lawyers. The first section of the book deals with international law, including the Berlin Blockade and the Wall, the creation of key international organizations like NATO and the Organization for Cooperation and Security in Europe (OCSE); the resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis; the suppression of the East German uprisings (1953), the Hungarian Revolution (1956), and the Prague Spring (1968), followed by the Brezhnev Doctrine; and the Nicaragua crisis. The second covers spies and subversives, real and imagined, from the immediate postwar Soviet subversion attempts; Hiss, McCarthy and the Rosenbergs; the trial of Rudolph Abel; and Francis Gary Powers and the Bay of Pigs exchanges. The third focuses on the creation of, and eventual limitations of, Presidential War Powers, from waging war or a police action without Congress, to the restrictions on Presidential control over domestic resources such as steel mills, and the final nature of the War Powers Resolution. Although the United States never faced a serious economic challenge from the Soviet Union, unlike with the Chinese today, there was also an economic Cold War. There were trade promotion and coordination problems for which lawyers helped find solutions, and there were difficulties on both the import and export sides. Grand Cold War strategies often couldn't go into effect without a lot of negotiation and working out the implementation details, as well as trial and error. Lawyers behind the scenes were often the key element in making the gains we made in all of these areas. Come listen to this hidden history, then ask Art your own questions. Arthur T. Downey (Washington, D.C.) has lectured at the Smithsonian, taught at Georgetown University Law Center, and is a member of the bar of the District of Columbia. He lived through the Cold War as a student, lawyer, diplomat, and government official. Downey is the author of Civil War Lawyers (ABA: 2010), The Creole Affair (Rowman & Littlefield: 2014), and The Cold War: Law, Lawyers, Spies and Crises (ABA: 2016)

Cost: $20, 100% of which is a contribution to the Cold War Museum. Location: ONLINE ONLY. Eventbrite ticket buyers will receive a link to the virtual room on the Zoom platform where this event will take place. We are recording the whole event, including the Q&A, for the Museum's archives. Register HERE.

Agenda: • 1:30-2:00. Participants arrive in the Zoom room online. • 2:00-2:05. Jason Hall, Executive Director of the Cold War Museum, introduces the Museum and Art Downey • 2:05-3:00. Art presents on the important roles of lawyers in implementing some of the key strategies and organizations of the Cold War. • 3:00-3:30. Q&A opportunity for the audience. Questions? Call or email Jason Hall, 703-283-4124 (cell), jason@coldwar.org.

Saturday, 16 March 2024 Spyher presents Secret Stories of Arlington National Cemetery.

This tour of Arlington National Cemetery visits the gravesites of select intelligence officers and interprets their stories. Some made the ultimate sacrifice. Stops also include the John F. Kennedy gravesite, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Guests gain a deep appreciation for the human cost of defending U.S. freedoms.
Book here and use promo code SSANC2024 for a 10% discount.

Wednesday, 20 March 2024, 2:00pm – Washington, DC – Spies of the Pacific: The Claire Philips Story – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

In partnership with the National Museum of the Pacific War (NMPW), International Spy Museum's Director of Adult Education joins the NMPW as a guest speaker to recount the story of Claire Phillips in their latest webinar. Born in 1907, Phillips was a stage actress and singer from Portland, Oregon. She gained recognition for her bravery as a spy and humanitarian during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II. Renowned as an author and activist, she was honored with the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian wartime decoration in the United States. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 21 March 2024 11:30 AM – Colorado Springs - The AFIO Rocky Mountain Chapter hosts Umadevi Gopaldass discussing "Lessons from the Lion taming the Dragon"

Abstract: How Singapore has successfully navigated China's rising power in the ASEAN region with finesse and delicacy over the past few decades.

Bio: Uma Gopaldass is a board-certified governance counsel with over 32 years of global experience in the Natural Resources and Management Consulting industries. She is an active board director for several corporations and chairs strategic planning and investor councils. Uma founded Leading Lotus, a company that guides executive teams to navigate a myriad of business challenges in today's socio-economic and geopolitical landscape. Prior to this, Uma managed multiple global re-organizations, including mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings for industry-leaders, including Schlumberger, Accenture, Newmont, and Fortune 500 clients, Unilever, Deutsche Bank, and Chevron. Uma is a native of Singapore, and has lived and operated in 5 continents. Today she calls Denver, Colorado home.

For further information, contact Anthony Leto at rmcafio@gmail.com

Thursday, 21 March 2024, 12:00-1:00pm – Washington, DC – Virtual Spy Chat with Chris Costa ft Dr. Jung H. Pak – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Dr. Jung H. Pak, Deputy Assistant Secretary Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, US Department of State.  As Deputy Assistant Secretary Pak is responsible for overseeing relations with Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. She also serves as the Deputy Special Representative for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Prior to arriving at State, she was a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, where she focused on Korean Peninsula issues, East Asia regional dynamics, and transnational threats related to proliferation, cybersecurity, and climate change. While at Brookings, she authored Becoming Kim Jong Un, which has been translated into multiple languages and draws from her deep knowledge and experience as an intelligence officer. Pak has held senior positions at the Central Intelligence Agency, receiving several awards for contributions to the President's Daily Brief, superior analytic accomplishments, and service to advance workforce development. As the Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Korea at the National Intelligence Council, she led the Intelligence Community's production of strategic analysis. Before her career in national security, Pak taught US history in New York City. She received her PhD from Columbia University and studied in South Korea as a Fulbright Scholar. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

NOTE NEW DATE: 26 March 2024, noon EDT - In-Person at MacDill AFB, FL or by Zoom - The Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter hosts Michael Pullara on "1993 Murder of CIA Station Chief Freddie Woodruff."

The Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter is holding its upcoming luncheon at noon on Tuesday, 26 March 2024, at the MacDill AFB Activity Center (formerly the Surf's Edge Club), 7315 Bayshore Boulevard, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Our speaker is Michael A. Pullara, a veteran trial lawyer and masterful storyteller who investigated the 1993 murder of CIA Officer Freddie Woodruff and authored a thrilling true-life espionage tale. Thanks to Pullara's investigation, in 2008 the Russians ultimately freed from prison the original suspect who'd been sentenced to 15 years' hard labor for the crime.
The luncheon includes a box lunch and costs are based on timing of your reservation/response.
Early response, $15 luncheon fee, no later than noon on Tuesday, 27 February.
Response cut-off, $20 luncheon fee, no later than noon on Thursday, 14 March.
ZOOM registration cut-off, $0 fee, no later than noon on Thursday, 14 March.
If you wish to participate by ZOOM please click on the this registration link to complete the registration request before noon on Monday, 14 March 2024. This is NOT the ZOOM meeting link. Subject to approval, you will receive the ZOOM meeting link by separate email. Please check your ZOOM program in advance to ensure it is working properly and that you have the confirmed ZOOM meeting link handy to join the meeting. It is next to impossible to trouble-shoot ZOOM connections on the day of the meeting.
Questions or to attend, contact the Chapter Secretary, Michael Shapiro, for more information, mfshapiro@suncoastafio.org.

Tuesday, 26 March 2024, 2:00-3:00pm – Washington, DC – SPY with Me: Program for Individuals with Dementia and their Care Partners – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

SPY with Me is an interactive virtual program for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Join SPY as we use music and artifacts to explore some of our favorite spy stories. Programs last one hour and are held virtually through Zoom. To register, please email Shana Oltmans at oltmans@spymuseum.org. Free but space is limited. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 28 March 2024 Spyher presents Vintage Espionage. A wine tasting event with an espionage twist.

Immerse yourself in a world of mystery and intrigue. Your sommelier for the evening C/1 lived and served around the world as an intelligence officer. She's an expert in relationship building and persuasion and guides you through a blind tasting of old-world and new-world wines. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply love intrigue, Vintage Espionage promises an evening you won't want to miss.
Book here and use promo code VE2024 for a $20 discount.

Saturday, 30 March 2024, 2:00-4:00pm – Washington, DC – In Store Book Signing Event for In True Face with Author Jonna Mendez – In Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

The bestselling co-author of The Moscow Rules and Argo, Jonna Hiestand Mendez, released a new book this month and will be coming to the Spy Museum Store for a signing event.  The new book, In True Face: A Woman's Life in the CIA, Unmasked, tells the riveting, courageous story of being a female spy at the height of the Cold War.  Mendez began her CIA career as a "contract wife" performing secretarial duties for the CIA as a convenience to her husband, a young officer stationed in Europe. She needed his permission to open a bank account or shut off the gas to their apartment. Yet Mendez had a talent for espionage, too, and she soon took on bigger and more significant roles at the Agency. She parlayed her interest in photography into an operational role overseas, an unlikely area for a woman in the CIA. Often underestimated, occasionally undermined, she lived under cover and served tours of duty all over the globe, rising first to become an international spy and ultimately to Chief of Disguise at CIA's Office of Technical Service. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

April 2024

1 April 2024 - In-Person - The San Antonio AFIO Chapter in-person meeting Reviews Russian War Demographics and Hears from Dr Seth Jones on "Russia, China, Iran and the Rise of Irregular Warfare."

The San Antonio AFIO Chapter meeting will be 1 April 2024 at noon at the Blue Skies Texas West complex. (5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245). The program will be in two parts: A statistical review of Russian demographics related to their war fighting capabilities followed by an AFIO Now video interview with Seth Jones, PhD, Author; Professor; and Director of Transnational Threats at the CSIS (Center for Strategic and International Studies). He has written a new book - Three Dangerous Men: Russia, China, Iran and the Rise of Irregular Warfare. Blue Skies of Texas residents are invited to attend the program. AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the gate guard as coming for the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers. AFIO members attending should park in front of The Towers. You may come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card. Questions to John Franklin, President, AFIO San Antonio Chapter, 210 863-0430 or by email.

Wednesday, 3 April 2024 6 pm - Virtual - The OSS Society hosts LTG Charles Cleveland USA(Ret) on "The American Way of Irregular War"

Please join The OSS Society for the next installment in its 2024 "Oh So Social" Conversation Series. On April 3rd at 6 p.m., OSS Society Chair Dr. Mike Vickers will interview LTG Charles Cleveland, USA (Ret.), the former commander of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, about his RAND report, The American Way of Irregular War: An Analytical Memoir. You will not want to miss this thought-provoking discussion by two of America's most distinguished national security figures. Register here

If you were unable to watch our last "Oh So Social" conversation on February 28th when Dr. Vickers interviewed Gen. David Petraeus about his book, Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine, we have made it available online by clicking here.

Wednesday, 10 April 2024, 12:00-1:00pm – Washington, DC – Four Shots in the Night with Henry Hemming – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join International Spy Museum Historian and Curator Dr. Andrew Hammond in conversation with Henry Hemming, author of Four Shots in the Night, a true story of spies, murder, and justice in Northern Ireland. The brutal 1986 killing of Frank Hegarty, a British spy who infiltrated the IRA, touched off a decades-long search for justice. His death was a major scandal, and years later, it was reported that his murderer might have been a second British spy ordered to kill an undercover colleague. Hemming, the author of seven books including The Ingenious Mr. Pyke, did extensive research and interviewing to unspin the tangled web that has surrounded the murder—a murder that inspired a vast criminal investigation 30 years later in 2016. He and Hammond will discuss the reality of this complex story, its far-reaching political reverberations, and the conclusions Hemming has drawn about how the Troubles may have actually come to an end. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 11 April 2024, 12:00-1:00pm – Washington, DC – Virtual Spy Chat with Chris Costa ft Christopher O'Leary – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Christopher O'Leary, former US Government Director of Hostage Rescue and Recovery. O'Leary is Senior Vice President for Global Operations at The Soufan Group which he joined following over two decades of working on counterterrorism investigations and operations for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Before leaving federal service, as the Director of Hostage Rescue and Recovery, he led an interagency task force dedicated to the mission of safely bringing home Americans taken hostage abroad by a terrorist organization. He began his career with the FBI in the Minneapolis Field Office serving as a Special Agent on the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and as an FBI SWAT Operator. Over his career in counterterrorism, O'Leary served in numerous critical leadership roles including Supervisory Special Agent of the Al-Qaeda Squad of the New York JTTF, Unit Chief of the FBI's elite Counterterrorism Fly Team, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the New York JTTF, and Section Chief in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters. O'Leary has extensive experience working on counterterrorism matters around the world jointly with US Special Operations and Intelligence Community colleagues, as well as with Intelligence and Security Services from foreign partners. This program is generously sponsored by Iron-Heart Warriors Foundation. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

14 - 25 April 2024 - Gary Powers' Cold War Espionage Tour of Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia & Hungary - Travel Dates: April 14 to 25,2024 - 12 days/10 nights

Join author & historian Gary Powers Jr. on this 12-day tour of Cold War and espionage related sites in Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia & Hungary
The deadline to enroll is 11/30/23 with a required deposit of $495. Final payment is due 12/30/23.
Day 1 : Departure from the USA
Day 2: Arrival Vienna — Welcome to Vienna, "Spy Capital of Europe." Meet your CHA Tour Director at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Begin your exploration of Vienna on a walking tour. Later, check into your hotel. Tonight, get to know your fellow travelers at our Welcome Dinner.
Day 3: Vienna — This morning, enjoy an espionage themed sightseeing tour of Vienna. Learn more about the history of postwar Vienna and secrets of the Cold War. Explore sites where the 1949 film noir classic, "The Third Man "starring Orson Welles, was filmed. See Harry Lime's apartment, the Hotel Sacher and Café Mozart, and hear stories about the film's production. Included is a visit to The Third Mon Museum. Later, visit Vienna's Prater Pork where you can ride the grand Ferris wheel featured in one of the film's most famous scenes. You will also have the opportunity to attend a screening of "The Third Mon" at Burg Kino, one of the world's oldest cinemas.
Day 4: Vienna-Misov-Rokycany-Prague — Journey across the Austrian border to the Czech Republic. Stop in Misov to visit the Atom Museum, the world's only nuclear weaponry open to the public. Lunch at a nearby restaurant is included. Continue to Rokycany to visit the Museum on the Demarkation Line, the largest non-state military museum in the country. Proceed to Prague, the Czech Republic's historic capital, where you spend the next three nights.
Day 5: Prague — Learn more about Cold War politics and espionage during your sightseeing tour of Prague. Visit the Prague Museum of Communism and explore Bezovka Nuclear Bunker, one of Prague's largest fallout shelters hidden beneath Parukarka Hill. Later, enjoy a walking tour of Prague to see the 500-year-old astronomical clock.
Day 6: Prague-Rozvadov-Pilsen-Prague — Enjoy a full-day excursion from Prague. Travel to Rozvadov to experience what life was like in the former Czechoslovakia in the days of Communism as you visit the Iron Curtain Museum. Stop in Pilsen to tour the famous Pilsner Urquell Brewery. Enjoy a brewery lunch before returning to Prague.
Day 7: Prague-Brno-Bratislava — Journey to Brno, the Czech Republic's second largest city, to tour the 10-Z Bunker, a highly classified Communist era nuclear fallout shelter, originally built as a shelter during the Nazi Occupation during World War II. Continue to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, located along the Danube, where the Austrian, Slovak and Hungarian borders meet. Check into your hotel where you spend the next two nights.
Day 8: Bratislava — This morning's sightseeing tour of Bratislava highlights the city's Communist era past. Included is a visit to the BS-8 Bunker and a tour of the remnants of a pre-WWII Czechoslovak fortification system and the border with Austria, known as the "Iron Curtain."
Day 9: Bratislava-Budapest — Travel across the Slovak border into Hungary as you make your way to the capital city, Budapest. Upon arrival, get acquainted with Budapest on a leisurely cruise along the Danube River. Later, check into your hotel where you spend the next two nights.
Day 10: Budapest — Learn more about Cold War and Communist history on your morning sightseeing tour of Budapest. Included today are visits to the Museum of Terror housing exhibits related to Fascist and Communist regimes in 20th-century Hungary, and Memento Park, a striking collection of statues from Hungary's past as part of the Soviet Bloc.
Day 11: Budapest-Sopron-Vienna — This morning, journey to Sopron to visit the Pan-European Picnic site where a peaceful meeting of Hungarians and Austrians took place on August 19,1989.This history-making demonstration at the border of the two nations caused a chain reaction in the region, leading to the collapse of the Iron Curtain, the Berlin Wall, and the eventual reunification of Germany. Return to Vienna to enjoy some free time in the Austrian capital. This evening, celebrate the last night of your tour at our Farewell Dinner.
Day 12: Departure for the USA — This morning, you will transfer to Vienna Airport to board your return flight.

What's Included: • Round-trip air transportation from Washington, DC; • 10 nights in centrally located, four-star hotels; • Full-time CHA Tour Director; • Valuable insight & informative commentary by Gary Powers Jr.; • On-tour transportation by private motorcoach; • Breakfast & dinner (or lunch) daily; • Sightseeing tours & visits shown in itinerary (subject to change based on availability)
Tour Prices: Full Tour Price: $5,695 per person; Land Tour Price: $4,645 per person (does not include round-trip airfare and airport transfers); Repeat Gary Powers travelers will receive a $200 discount! Price based on double occupancy.
A $600 single room fee will apply for travelers without roommates.
The deadline to enroll is 11/30/23 with a required deposit of $495. Final payment is due 12/30/23.
Questions? Call 1-800-323-4466 or email info@cha-tours.com.
Enroll Online at: www.cha-tours.com/GaryPowers

Friday, 19 Apr 2024, 1100 (EST) - Tysons Corner, VA - AFIO National In-Person Spring Luncheon features fireside chat with Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence. Morning speaker is Jonna Mendez, CIA's former Master of Disguise, "In True Face."

Note different timing: NOON SPEAKER: Fireside Chat with Avril Haines, Director of National Intelligence, begins at noon. Please note the earlier start time. MORNING SPEAKER: Jonna Mendez, former CIA Chief of Disguise, speaks at 11:00 a.m. She will be discussing her latest book: "In True Face: A Woman's Life in the CIA, Unmasked" - published 5 March 2024. Copies will be available. Q&A follows each talk or presentation. Lunch served 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Event ends at 2:00 p.m. Luncheon prices are $60 for Members; $75 for nonmember guests and all Subscribers. Payment by credit card required at time of registration. No mailed checks or "at the door" payments accepted or permitted.
Register here. Registration closes 5 p.m., Friday, 12 April.
Check-in and badge pickup for Registered Attendees begins at 10:30 a.m. NO registrations or walk-ins at hotel. No payments by cash or check or onsite registrations at venue.
Though we do not provide special overnight room rates, if you wish to make room reservations at the hotel, do so here.
Cancellation Schedule: AFIO must commit to the hotel facilities and regrets it must charge a cancellation fee. No cancellations with refund after 1 April. Any cancellations 2 to 12 April will be converted to donation to AFIO. A donor statement will be sent showing you made a "gift to AFIO." Gifts to AFIO are tax-deductible as charitable donations. Cancellations after 12 April are not donations because your meal has been guaranteed to hotel per event contract. Thank you for your understanding. All attendees must be members of AFIO or accompanied by a current member. For security reasons, we are unable to accept late or last minute substitutions for non-attendance or changes in your guests.
Questions regarding this event to events@afio.com

Saturday, 20 April 2024, 2:00-4:00pm – Washington, DC – In Store Book Signing Event for The Peacock and The Sparrow with Author I.S. Berry – In Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

Author of The Peacock and The Sparrow, I.S. Berry spent six years as an operations officer for the CIA, serving in wartime Baghdad and elsewhere. She has lived and worked throughout Europe and the Middle East, including two years in Bahrain during the Arab Spring. Raised in the suburbs of Washington, DC, she graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law and Haverford College and currently lives in Virginia with her husband and son.  In her dazzling debut thriller, The Peacock and The Sparrow, Berry tells the fictional story of an American spy's final mission going dangerously awry, in a story called "the most realistic espionage story I've read" by former CIA officer Joseph Weisberg, creator of The Americans. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Tuesday, 23 April 2024, 2:00-3:00pm – Washington, DC – SPY with Me: Program for Individuals with Dementia and their Care Partners – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

SPY with Me is an interactive virtual program for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Join SPY as we use music and artifacts to explore some of our favorite spy stories. Programs last one hour and are held virtually through Zoom. To register, please email Shana Oltmans at soltmans@spymuseum.org. Free but space is limited. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 25 April 2024, 6:30pm – Washington, DC – Covert City with Vince Houghton and Eric Driggs – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

You might not be able to make it to Miami for Spring Break this year, but you can do the next best thing and take a deep dive into the secret operations, corruption, crime, and spies that made Miami a Cold War hot spot as crucial to winning the Cold War as Washington, DC or Moscow. The Cuban Missile Crisis was perhaps the most dramatic and dangerous period of the Cold War. What's less well known is that the city of Miami, mere miles away, was a pivotal part of Cold War history. With its population of Communist exiles from Cuba, its strategic value for military operations, and its lax business laws, Miami was an ideal environment for espionage. Join the co-authors of the new book Covert City: The Cold War and the Making of Miami, Vince Houghton and Eric Driggs for a conversation exploring Miami as a hub for not just money and cocaine, but also secrets and ideologies. Houghton, the Director of the National Cryptologic Museum at the National Security Agency, and Driggs, who is a congressional liaison for US Southern Command are both Miami natives who come at this story with skin in the game. They'll lead you through the myriad ways that intelligence was integral to the development of Miami — who says you can't get a great tan and plot against Castro at the same time? Covert City will be available for sale and signing after the conversation. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Sunday, 28 April 2024, 10:00-11:00am – Washington, DC – Yoga & Sound Bath at SPY – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

To master the art of espionage, agents must learn to control body, mind, and spirit. Experience an all-level yoga flow session led by instructor Beth A. Wolfe, accompanied by a sound bath led by Mel of Beyond Yoga, a yoga teacher certified in crystal alchemy sound healing. Harmonic chords and binaural sounds will be played which promote balance and relaxation. Yoga practice will take place among the clouds on the Museum's rooftop terrace which offers a sweeping view of the SW waterfront (the Wharf), National Airport, and Nationals Park. All are welcome--the class is open to brand new and seasoned yogis alike! No previous yoga experience required. Please purchase tickets in advance and BYO yoga mat. Tickets are $30. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Monday, 29 April 2024, 2:00-4:00pm – Washington, DC – In Store Book Signing Event for American Mother with Author Diane Foley – In Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

National Book Award-winning author Colum McCann channels Diane Foley's voice as she tells her story, as the mother of American journalist Jim Foley – in search of answers, beyond justice, found through dogged, empathetic, spiritual enquiry. In late 2021, Diane Foley sat at a table across from her son's killer, Alexanda Kotey, a member of the ISIS group known as "The Beatles" who plead guilty to the kidnapping, torture, and murder of her son seven years earlier. Kotey was about to go serve life imprisonment and this was Diane's chance to talk to the man who had been involved with brutally taking her son's last breath. What would she say to his killer? What would he reveal to her? Might she even be able to summon forgiveness for him? So begins American Mother — which reads alternately like a thriller, a biography, a mystery, a memoir, and a literary examination of grace. Diane looks back on the early days when Jim was a child, his journey to journalism, and the killing fields of the world where he reported with indefatigable determination and insight on the plight of those caught up in the agonies of war. She guides us through her family history and the difficulties they faced when Jim was captured. And she also charts the tenacity it takes to turn her grief into grace as she seeks to give voice to those who are still being kidnapped and wrongfully detained around the world. Few journeys are more worthy than this and, in this astonishing book, we are all invited to celebrate the lives of those who are never, in the end, gone. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Tue Apr 30 2024, 11:30am PDT - in-person San Francisco, CA - AFIO SF Chapter hears from LtCol Thomas Kulisz on "TikTok and China: National Security Threat or National Panic Attack?"

The AFIO San Francisco Chapter meets Tuesday 30 April 2024 to hear LtCol Thomas Kulisz USMC, discuss: "TikTok and China: National Security Threat or National Panic Attack?"
Speaker: LtCol Thomas Kulisz - USMC; National Security Affairs Fellow, Hoover Institution
Location: Basque Cultural Center, 599 Railroad Avenue, South San Francisco
Time: 11:30am no host cocktails; 12 noon (Pacific) meeting start
Event Registration Link: pre-registration is required. Questions? Contact Mariko Kawaguchi.

May 2024

Monday, 6 May 2024, noon CDT - in-person - AFIO San Antonio Chapter hears Brian Morra on "Able Archer" and a 1983 Soviet Nuclear War Crisis

The program will be in two parts: A review of the Reforger and Able Archer military exercises in Europe followed by an AFIO Now video interview with Brian Morra, a USAF Intelligence Officer during the 1983 Soviet Nuclear War Crisis. The Soviet Union and NATO almost mistakenly went to war with nuclear weapons!

Blue Skies of Texas residents are invited to attend the program.
The San Antonio AFIO Chapter meeting will be at the Blue Skies Texas West complex, 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245.

Questions to San Antonio Chapter President John Franklin, 210.863.0430 or at satxafio@gmail.com.

AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the Blue Skies gate guard as coming for the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers. AFIO members attending should park in front of The Towers. You may come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card.

Thursday, 16 May 2024 11:30 AM MDT – Colorado Springs – The AFIO Rocky Mountain Chapter hosts Bob Pence discussing "FBI Relations with the Military"

Abstract: The presentation will include stories from my book titled "My Non Political FBI" which describe the close working relationship between the FBI and our military agencies as well as details of cases worked jointly between the Bureau and various military agencies during my career.

Bio: During 30 years with the FBI, Bob Pence served in a number of supervisory and executive positions, retiring as the Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of FBI offices in the Rocky Mountain states with Division Headquarters in Denver. Since retirement he has traveled throughout the U.S. and abroad as a speaker and law enforcement consultant in matters involving crime and terrorism. Bob has also served as a media consultant to national TV networks and local media organizations, appearing frequently in matters dealing with public safety issues.

For further information, contact Anthony Leto at rmcafio@gmail.com

Wed, 22 May 2024, 6:30 to 7:30 PM - Webinar via Zoom - AFIO Atlanta Chapter webinar with retired CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos

The AFIO Atlanta Chapter invites you to join its May 22, 2024 webinar with retired CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos. This webinar will be held on Wed, May 22, beginning at 6:30 PM and concluding at 7:30 PM. This event is open to the public and a Zoom link will be distributed the Monday prior to the event to those who have indicated interest using email address below.
Please RSVP by COB May 21 to membership@afioatlanta.com, and direct all questions to this email.

About Our Speaker: Marc served for 26 years at the CIA before retiring as a member of the Senior Intelligence Service (the CIA equivalent of a 4-star general). While in the DIrectorate of Operations, he specialized in the Middle East, South Asia, and counterterrorism, and served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan embedded with military special operations forces. Marc was one of the CIA's most highly decorated operations officers who served in multiple field assignments from operative to multiple tours as a Chief of Base and Chief of Station, ultimately retiring as Chief of Operations for Europe and Eurasia. His decorations for exceptional service include: the Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal, the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the Intelligence Commendation Medal, and the Intelligence Medal of Merit. Marc frequently comments on international events in the US media, including the Washington Post, the New York Times, Fox News, GQ, Yahoo News, CNN, and MSNBC. He also writes a weekly column on intelligence as a Washington Examiner contributor. His book, "Clarity in Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the CIA," was published by HarperCollins in June 2021

Thursday, 23 May 2024, 6:30pm – Washington, DC – The Eagle in the Mirror with Author Jesse Fink – In-Person and Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Was the longest serving spy for the British Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) really a triple agent? Or was he the victim of Cold War paranoia? International Spy Museum Historian and Curator Dr. Andrew Hammond will discuss with Jesse Fink, author of The Eagle in the Mirror: The Greatest Spy Story Never Told, the mysterious Dick Ellis. Ellis helped set up the Office of Strategic Services as well as the Australian Secret Intelligence Service. At one point in the 1940s he was considered one of the top three secret agents in MI6 and controlled its activities, as one journalist put it "for half the world." But then in 1965, while under interrogation, Ellis allegedly confessed that he had supplied information to the Nazis before World War II. In the 1970s, he also revealed he was warned of the attack on Pearl Harbor ahead of time and those warnings were relayed to President Roosevelt. So, was he a bigger traitor than Kim Philby or Robert Hanssen, or were the allegations false? Award-winning, internationally best-selling author Fink and Hammond will explore these questions and this little-known, yet extraordinary figure who played a key role in 20th century Western espionage. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Saturday, 25 May 2024, 2:00-4:00pm – Washington, DC – In Store Book Signing Event for A Woman I Know with Author Mary Haverstick – In Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

The true story of a filmmaker whose investigation of her film's subject opened a new window onto the world of Cold War espionage, CIA secrets, and the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Independent filmmaker Mary Haverstick thought she'd stumbled onto the project of a lifetime—a biopic of aviation pioneer Jerrie Cobb, the key figure in a group of extraordinary women who in 1960 passed the same tests as the legendary male astronauts of the Mercury 7 but never went to space. Just as casting was set to begin, Haverstick received a mysterious warning from a government agent; soon she began to suspect that there was more to Jerrie's story than what met the eye. As she dug deeper, she discovered that Jerrie's life shadowed that of a mysterious CIA agent named June Cobb, whose espionage career traced an arc of intrigue from the jungles of South America to Fidel Castro's Cuba, to the communist literary circles in Mexico City—and ultimately into the dark heart of the Kennedy assassination in Dallas. Haverstick's attempt to learn the truth directly from Jerrie would plunge her into a cat-and-mouse game that stretched across a decade, deep into a thicket of coded CIA files. As she uncovered a remarkable set of mostly unknown women whose high-stakes intelligence work left its only traces in redacted files, she also found shocking new clues about what really happened at Dealey Plaza in 1963. Offering fresh insight into the Kennedy assassination and a vivid picture of women in midcentury intelligence, A Woman I Know brings to life the astonishing duplicities of the Cold War intelligence game, a world where code names and hidden identities were the lifeblood of spies bent on seeking advantage by any means necessary.

Tuesday, 28 May 2024, 2:00-3:00pm – Washington, DC – SPY with Me: Program for Individuals with Dementia and their Care Partners – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

SPY with Me is an interactive virtual program for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Join SPY as we use music and artifacts to explore some of our favorite spy stories. Programs last one hour and are held virtually through Zoom once a month. To register, please email Shana Oltmans at soltmans@spymuseum.org. Free but space is limited. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Wednesday, 29 May 2024, 12:00-1:00pm – Washington, DC – Virtual Spy Chat with Chris Costa ft Kevin Higgins – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Kevin Higgins, former Chief of Staff to CIA Director William J. Burns. Higgins, a Spy Museum Advisory Board Member, is a former CIA senior executive who retired after 30 years of distinguished service. In his last assignment at the CIA, he served as Chief of Staff to Director Burns. Higgins' prior senior executive leadership roles at CIA include Assistant Director of CIA for Africa, Chief of Operations of the Counterterrorism Center, several Chief of Station assignments, and Chief of Base of an expeditionary site in Afghanistan. During his three decades of service, he received honors including the Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal, CIA's Excellence in Leadership Award, the George W. Bush Award for Excellence in Counterterrorism, and two CIA Director's Awards. He is a three-time recipient of the Presidential Rank Award. Higgins is currently a Principal Advisor at WestExec. He was previously the Senior Vice President and General Manager for US Operations and Global Opportunities at Silicon Valley drone manufacturer and instant logistics start-up Zipline. In 2022, Zipline was recognized by Time Magazine as one of the year's best inventions and further acclaimed in 2023 on CNBC's Disruptor 50 list of innovative companies. After leaving public service, Higgins founded KSTK Enterprises, a boutique advisory firm that specializes in guiding clients through a range of complex challenges. This program is generously sponsored by Washington Harbour Partners. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

June 2024

Mon 3 Jun 2024, 12:00pm CDT - In-Person - San Antonio AFIO Chapter meeting on "The Wild Weasel Program in Southeast Asia"

The San Antonio AFIO Chapter meeting will be 3 June 2024 at noon at the Blue Skies Texas West Towers residence complex in the Roadrunner Lounge. (5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245, about a minute outside of Loop 1604 on US Hwy 90 west). The program will be on the Wild Weasel Program in Southeast Asia. Come learn what "YGBSM" means. The June program will be on the Wild Weasel Program in Southeast Asia. "Wild Weasels" were aircrews assigned to proceed other strike force aircraft and to attack enemy missile and radar controlled gun complexes. North Vietnam's air defenses were the most intense in history, far more intense than the heavy antiaircraft fire over Nazi occupied Europe during World War II. And a new weapon, the surface to air missile, made the strike force pilots begin to believe these missions could not be survived. With shoot downs mounting up, something had to be done....enter the Wild Weasel pilot and his "Bear." The new "Iron Hand" program to suppress and knock out enemy air defense missiles would have aircraft fly ahead of the strike force and defend them against surface to air missiles and radar directed anti aircraft gun fire. These were brave men flying very dangerous missions. Wild Weasels were the first aircraft in and the last to leave the target area. The presentation will be by John Franklin, who was an intelligence officer with the Wild Weasels in SEA and again with them in the United States. The presentation will conclude with the stories of the two Wild Weasel pilots who earned the Congressional Medal of Honor. AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the gate guard as coming for the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers. AFIO members attending should park in front of The Towers. You may come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card. Questions to chapter president John Franklin at satxafio@gmail.com or call 210 863-0430.

Thursday, 13 June 2024, 6:30pm – Washington, DC – Spy Chat LIVE with Chris Costa ft Dr. Stacey Dixon – HYBRID: In-Person and Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for a hybrid (online and in-person) discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Dr. Stacey Dixon, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence. Dixon was sworn in as the Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence (PDDNI) on August 4, 2021. She currently serves as the sixth Senate-confirmed PDDNI. With more than 20 years of intelligence experience, Dixon has led the Intelligence Community at the highest ranks. She joined ODNI after serving as the eighth Deputy Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) from 2019-2021, where she assisted the Director both in leading the agency and managing the National System for Geospatial Intelligence. From 2018 to 2019, she was the fourth Director of the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA), after serving as its Deputy Director from 2016 to 2018. Before joining IARPA, Dixon served as the Deputy Director of NGA's research directorate, where she oversaw geospatial intelligence research and development. She held additional leadership roles at NGA as the Chief of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs and Deputy Director of the Corporate Communications Office. Prior to serving at NGA, Dixon was a staff member for the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. She first started her intelligence career at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 2003, where she was assigned to the National Reconnaissance Office's advanced systems and technology directorate. The in-person event will have open seating available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Friday, 14 June 2024, 6:30pm – Washington, DC – Birds Aren't Real: An Evening with Peter McIndoe – International Spy Museum Program

"The most perfect, playful distillation of where we are in relation to the media landscape we've built but can't control…It's a conspiracy-within-a-conspiracy." —The Guardian. Join us for a groundbreaking evening as we delve into the shocking world of bird drone surveillance. Peter McIndoe, founder of the Birds Aren't Real movement will engage in a Q&A with Director of Adult Education Amanda Ohlke and it's a conversation that may just end up in the Bird Truther history books. Come learn about the fantastical satirical world in which the government systemically removed 12 billion birds and replaced them with surveillance drone replicas designed to spy on the public. The new Birds Aren't Real: The True Story of Mass Avian Murder and the Largest Surveillance Campaign in US History book will be available for sale and signing after the conversation. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 18 July 2024 11:30 AM – Colorado Springs – The AFIO Rocky Mountain Chapter hosts Bill Berry discussing "Philippines-China Territorial Conflict in the South China Sea and Possible U.S. Involvement"

Abstract: There is another potentially contentious issue, besides Taiwan, that involves conflicting claims in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China. Unlike the relationship between Taiwan and the U.S., the U.S. and the Philippines have a Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) negotiated in 1951 that remains in effect. Recently, China and the Philippines have engaged in increasing hostile actions in the South China Sea. China has used a variety of "grey zone" activities in the effort to intimidate the Philippines. The Biden administration has made it clear that its position is that the MDT applies to these conflicting claims. Consequently, the security relationship between the Philippines and United States has been enhanced. This presentation will explore the history of this potential conflict and possible outcomes.

Bio: William E. Berry, Jr. is a retired Air Force colonel whose 30-year career included assignments in Vietnam (1969-70), the Philippines (1973-75), the Republic of Korea (1984-86), and Malaysia (1990-93). A Cornell PhD, he taught at the Air Force Academy, the National War College, and the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. He is the author of two books: U.S. Bases in the Philippines: The Evolution of the Special Relationship and Global Security Watch Korea.

For further information, contact Anthony Leto.

20 June 2024, 1800 (ET) - Author Kevin Bryant on his book Spies on the Sidelines: The High-Stakes World of NFL Espionage - Virtual - AFIO Eastern Tennessee Chapter.

Mr. Bryant is an Army veteran with over twenty years of experience safeguarding and gathering information for the Department of Defense, including thirteen years as a Special Agent during which he conducted national security investigations and instructed federal agents in training. Kevin graduated from the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) with a B.A. in History, and graduated with top honors from American Military University with an M.A. in Intelligence Studies and an M.S. in Sports Management. During his senior year of high school he was selected onto the East-West Ambassadors National Select soccer team, composed of elite high school players from across the United States, and in college he played NCAA soccer for UCSC. His book is available through Amazon. Order a copy and bring your questions. Email admin@etnafio.comfor an invitation.

Tuesday, 25 June 2024, 2:00-3:00pm – Washington, DC – SPY with Me: Program for Individuals with Dementia and their Care Partners – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

SPY with Me is an interactive virtual program for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Join SPY as we use music and artifacts to explore some of our favorite spy stories. Programs last one hour and are held virtually through Zoom once a month. To register, please email Shana Oltmans at soltmans@spymuseum.org. Free but space is limited. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

26 June 2024 1630-1730 (ET) – In Person – Cracking the Nazi Code: The Untold Story of Canada’s Greatest Spy - Institute of World Politics, Washington DC

Jason Bell, Associate professor of philosophy at the University of New Brunswick, discusses his new book. "In public life, Dr. Winthrop Bell of Halifax was a Harvard philosophy professor and wealthy businessman. But as MI6 secret agent A12, he evaded gunfire and shook off pursuers to break open the emerging Nazi conspiracy in 1919 Berlin. His reports, the first warning of the Nazi plot for WWII, went directly to the man known as C, the mysterious founder of MI6. Throughout this, a powerful fascist politician quietly worked to suppress Bell’s alerts. Nevertheless, agent A12’s intelligence sabotaged the Nazis in ways that are only now being revealed. The Harvard philosophy instructor Winthrop Bell, aka British secret agent A12, was a star student of Edmund Husserl, the founder of modern German phenomenology. Bell was the first spy to fight the Nazis, in 1919, and the first to warn against their plans for the Holocaust, in 1939. His papers were held under classification for many years and were only recently declassified. They show how he dealt severe blows to the earliest Nazis, hindering them from taking over the world. How can this history help us to combat antisemitism today?" Jason Bell is an associate professor of philosophy at the University of New Brunswick in Canada. He has taught in the graduate program at the Higher Institute of Philosophy at the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium and at Mount Allison University in Canada. He has served at the University of Göttingen in Germany as Fulbright Professor, as scholar-in-residence at Boston University, as Research Fellow at the Husserl Archives-Leuven, and as d’Alzon Fellow at Assumption University. He was awarded the doctorate in philosophy at Vanderbilt University. More information here.

26 June 2024 1200-1800 (GMT) – Virtual Conference – Using Intelligence to Control Weapons of Mass Destruction - Johns Hopkins University

Robert M. Clark previously was a faculty member of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Intelligence Community Officers’ Course and course director of the DNI’s Introduction to the Intelligence Community course. Clark served as a USAF electronics warfare officer and intelligence officer, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. At CIA, he was a senior analyst and group chief. He subsequently was the founder, President and CEO of the Scientific and Technical Analysis Corporation. He is the author of Intelligence Analysis: A Target-centric Approach (6th edition, 2019), The Technical Collection of Intelligence (2010), and Intelligence Collection (2014). He is a co-author, with Dr. William Mitchell, of Target-Centric Network Modeling (2015) and Deception: Counterintelligence and Counterdeception (2018); and, co-editor, with Dr. Mark Lowenthal, of Intelligence Collection: The Five Disciplines (2015). His newest book, The Road to Geospatial Intelligence: The Story of GEOINT, was published in 2020. Clark holds a BS from MIT, a PhD in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois, and a JD from George Washington University. He is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Bar. More information here.

26-27 June 2024 1200-1800 (GMT) – Virtual Conference – Knock in the Night: Intelligence, Security, and Special Services in Authoritarian States – Brunel University

The Brunel Centre for Intelligence and Security Studies (BCISS) is hosting a two-day, online conference about the activities, role and functioning of intelligence and security organisations in autocratic regimes. The conference will address the causes, conditions and difficulties that national intelligence and security infrastructures face as governments transform into democracies. More information and free registration here.

Thursday, 27 June 2024, noon EDT - In-Person and Virtual - The Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter luncheon features the Honorable Bill Burgess, Circuit Court Judge in Florida's Sixth Judicial Circuit and US Army Special Forces veteran

The Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter is holding its upcoming luncheon at noon on Thursday, 27 June 2024, in the Tournament Room at the MacDill AFB Bay Pines Golf Complex, 1803 Golf Course Ave, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Our speaker is the Honorable Bill Burgess, Circuit Court Judge in Florida's Sixth Judicial Circuit and US Army Special Forces veteran. Judge Burgess has had outstanding legal and military careers, and he will touch upon how his military experience has helped him in his legal profession. The luncheon includes a box lunch and costs $25. Reservations and arrangements for Base access must be completed no later than noon on Thursday, 13 June 2024, including arrangements for base access and food selection.

If you wish to participate by ZOOM, please click on this registration link to complete the registration request before noon on Thursday, 20 June 2024. This is NOT the ZOOM meeting link. Subject to approval, you will receive the ZOOM meeting link by separate email. Please check your ZOOM program in advance to ensure it is working properly and that you have the confirmed ZOOM meeting link handy to join the meeting. It is next to impossible to trouble-shoot ZOOM connections on the day of the meeting.

Questions? Contact the Chapter Secretary Michael Shapiro for more information, mfshapiro@suncoastafio.org.

Thursday, 27 June 2024, 5:30pm – Washington, DC – Sexuality and Subterfuge with Josephine Baker – International Spy Museum and National Portrait Gallery Program at the National Portrait Gallery's McEvoy Auditorium

Join the National Portrait Gallery and the Spy Museum for a conversation about Josephine Baker's secret career as a spy for the French Resistance during World War II. The panel will be moderated by the Spy Museum's Amanda Ohlke and will feature Portrait Gallery Curator Robyn Asleson in conversation with counterterrorism expert Dexter Ingram and former CIA agent and Chief of Disguise Jonna Mendez. This program will take place in the National Portrait Gallery's McEvoy Auditorium. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Saturday, 29 June 2024, 2:00-4:00pm – Washington, DC – In Store Book Signing Event for Humble Yet Fierce with Author Katy McQuaid – In Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

Former deputy director of logistics in the CIA, and now award-winning author and leadership consultant, Katy McQuaid brings her true-life stories of courage, faith, and adventure related to that journey. From the life-changing events in her first year of college to her remarkable career in the CIA, McQuaid shares that you don't have to be loud to be strong. She shares her challenges as a woman working in a male-dominated industry. She was inspired by good leaders who helped her succeed and go further than she thought possible. After thirty-two years, McQuaid retired from the secretive and often dangerous world of intelligence gathering at the CIA, and found her voice through writing the Everybody Loves Grace series, winning two Nautilus Book Silver awards for children's illustrated fiction books. Along with stories of strength through adversity, this book includes stories of leadership with humility. Humble Yet Fierce will remind you that leadership is a way of life, that you don't have to be overbearing to make yourself heard, and that you can laugh at yourself even in difficult times. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

July 2024

Monday, 1 July 2024, noon - in-person - The San Antonio AFIO Chapter meeting will discuss Tyndall AFB's F-35s, Chinese Spying, Armenia-Russia Issues, and NSA Guidance on Smartphones

The meeting will be at the Blue Skies Texas West complex, 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245. Blue Skies of Texas residents are invited to attend the program. The presentation will be a series of items covering rebuilding of Tyndall AFB for F-35, European researchers responding to Chinese spying, F-35 vs A-10 flyoff = Farewell to the Warthog, the AO-1A Warden aircraft, Armenia divorces Mother Russia, and NSA issues guidance on cell phones. AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the Blue Skies gate guard as coming for "the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers." AFIO members attending should park in front of The Towers. You may come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card.
Questions? John Franklin, President, AFIO San Antonio Chapter, or call 210 863-0430.

Thursday, 18 July 2024 11:30 AM (MT) – Colorado Springs – The AFIO Rocky Mountain Chapter hosts Bill Berry discussing "Philippines-China Territorial Conflict in the South China Sea and Possible U.S. Involvement"

Abstract: There is another potentially contentious issue, besides Taiwan, that involves conflicting claims in the South China Sea between the Philippines and China. Unlike the relationship between Taiwan and the U.S., the U.S. and the Philippines have a Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) negotiated in 1951 that remains in effect. Recently, China and the Philippines have engaged in increasing hostile actions in the South China Sea. China has used a variety of "grey zone" activities in the effort to intimidate the Philippines. The Biden administration has made it clear that its position is that the MDT applies to these conflicting claims. Consequently, the security relationship between the Philippines and United States has been enhanced. This presentation will explore the history of this potential conflict and possible outcomes.

Bio: William E. Berry, Jr. is a retired Air Force colonel whose 30-year career included assignments in Vietnam (1969-70), the Philippines (1973-75), the Republic of Korea (1984-86), and Malaysia (1990-93). A Cornell PhD, he taught at the Air Force Academy, the National War College, and the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. He is the author of two books: U.S. Bases in the Philippines: The Evolution of the Special Relationship and Global Security Watch Korea.

For further information, contact Anthony Leto.

Tuesday, 30 July 2024, 7 p.m. - In-Person, Yorba Linda, CA - AFIO Los Angeles Chapter Presentation and Dinner features General David Petraeus former Director of the CIA

General David Petraeus former Director of the CIA will be the featured speaker we will subsequently meet for dinner following the presentation at 8.30 PM. If you are interested to attend please RSVP using the information below.

Subject: Gen. Petraeus will offer his expert analysis on challenges in Ukraine and across the Middle East
RSVP here: Meet General David Petraeus
Location: Nixon Presidential Library & Museum, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA 92886

Dinner follows the presentation at 8.30 PM
Dinner location: Chilis Grill 18380 Yorba Linda Blvd

Questions? Contact Vincent Autiero, President, AFIO-Los Angeles Chapter, at afio_la@yahoo.com

August 2024

Thursday, 1 August 2024, 6PM-7PM PDT - In-Person - The AFIO-Los Angeles Chapter meets at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Museum Center to hear Lt Gen Heath Collins, Director, Missile Defense Agency

For this event the chapter partners with the Reagan Museum Center for speaker Lt. General Heath Collins, Director of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). More information to follow, in the coming weeks.

Lt. Gen Collins will discuss "the Missile Defense Agency - its responsibilities, its challenges and opportunities, and the importance of what the MDA does every day for our nation's security."

To sign up for the program, please click here.

Lieutenant General Heath Collins is the Director, Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and advises the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering on Missile Defense programmatic policy, requirements, priorities, systems, resources, and programs. MDA's global mission is to develop, test, field, and sustain integrated, layered missile defense capabilities to defend the United States, its deployed forces, allies and friends against missile attacks in all phases of flight. Lt Gen Collins directs the $11 billion global organization with more than 9,000 military, civilian and contract personnel. He exercises management oversight for the Missile Defense System to include program management of missile defense resources which he synchronizes with the services in support of Combatant Command requirements.

Questions: contact Chapter President Vincent Autiero.

Mon 5 Aug 2024, noon (CT) - San Antonio TX - In-Person - The AFIO San Antonio TX Chapter features video interview with Chip Beck, USN on "CIA Special Operations in Cambodia" and on Impact of Houthi Attack Boats on Red Sea Shipping.

The first part of the program will be a video interview with Chip Beck, a US Naval officer turned CIA Special Operations Officer working in Cambodia. He has written a book about the last days as he and Cambodian allies fought the Khmer Rouge in this secret war in Cambodia. The non-fiction book is titled Final Days of Heroes. The second part of the program will be a look at the technology and impact of Houthi attack boats which have sunk one oil tanker and damaged several other civilian ships attempting to move into the Red Sea.
Location: The Road Runner Lounge of The Towers at the Blue Skies Texas West complex, 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245. Program starts at noon. All Blue Skies residents are encouraged to attend. AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the Blue Skies gate guard as coming for the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers. AFIO members attending should park in front of The Towers. You may come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card.
Questions to John Franklin, President, AFIO San Antonio Chapter or call 210 863-0430.

Tuesday, 20 August 2024, noon (ET) - Tampa FL - Hybrid - In-person and Zoom - Florida Suncoast AFIO Chapter luncheon features Col Juan Carlos Garcia on "Current and Changing Military Challenges Facing the Nation."

The luncheon will be held in the Tournament Room at the MacDill AFB Bay Pines Golf Complex, 1803 Golf Course Ave, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Our speaker is COL Juan Carlos Garcia addressing the current defense challenges facing the nation, the changing character of war, and how we are facing these challenges. You won't want to miss this briefing! This is an unclassified but sensitive meeting. Strict non-attribution rules apply (Chatham House Rule). The luncheon includes a box lunch and costs $25. Reservations and arrangements for Base access must be completed no later than noon on Wednesday, 7 August 2024, including arrangements for base access and food selection. This is an in-person event. Should you wish to participate by ZOOM, please click on this registration link to complete the registration process before noon on Wednesday, 7 August 2024. [This is NOT the ZOOM meeting link. Subject to approval, you will receive the ZOOM meeting link by separate email. Please check your ZOOM program in advance to ensure it is updated and working properly and that you have the confirmed ZOOM meeting link to join meeting. It is impossible to troubleshoot ZOOM connections the day of the meeting.] Qs? Contact the Chapter Secretary, Michael Shapiro, for more information.

September 2024

09 Sep 24, 1800-1830 (ET) - virtual - Q&A with Liza Mundy, award-winning journalist and New York Times-bestselling author of The Sisterhood: The Secret History of Women at the CIA (2023) - AFIO East Tennessee.

Tune in and learn about the brave women espionage officers who helped build the world’s foremost spy agency. For more information and link to event, contact AFIO East Tennessee

Mon, 9 Sep 2024, noon (CT) - in-person San Antonio, TX - The AFIO San Antonio Chapter Meeting Will Review "Some CIA Secrets and Innovations," F-22 and F-35 Aircraft, and How 32 Soldiers Opened Omaha Beach, Normandy, in 1944

This month's program reviews the differences between the F-22 and F-35 aircraft; "Some CIA Secrets" dealing with past CIA innovations; and a video analyzing how 32 soldiers opened up the Omaha Beach in Normandy, 6 June 1944.
Event will be at Road Runner Lounge, The Towers at Blue Skies Texas West Complex, 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio TX 78245
AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the Blue Skies gate guard as "coming for the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers." Blue Skies Texas West is located at 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245. Members attending should park in front of The Towers. Come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card.
Questions to John Franklin, President, AFIO San Antonio Chapter, or call 210 863-0430.

Thursday, 12 September 2024, 12:00-1:00pm – Washington, DC – Spy Chat with Chris Costa ft. Christine Abizaid – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined by Christine Abizaid, former Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). Abizaid was Director of NCTC until July of 2024. She was the eighth Senate-confirmed Director and the first woman to lead NCTC, the United States Government's primary organization that integrates, analyzes, and shares counterterrorism information to address the persistent and evolving threat environment. During the Obama Administration, Abizaid was the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Central Asia. Prior to joining the Office of the Secretary of Defense, she served on the National Security Council Staff as both Director for Counterterrorism and Senior Policy Advisor to the Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism. Abizaid began her government career at the Defense Intelligence Agency's (DIA) Joint Intelligence Task Force Combating Terrorism and served for seven years to include time as the Senior Intelligence Analyst in the Afghanistan-Pakistan Division and the Iraq/Middle East Division. She deployed several times throughout the Middle East, including a tour as the senior DIA counterterrorism representative in Iraq. Abizaid has received the Office of the Director of National Intelligence Award, the National Military Intelligence Association John T. Hughes Award, and the DIA Meritorious Civilian Service Award. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Sat, 14 Sep 2024, 11:30am EDT - Indialantic, FL - AFIO Florida Satellite Chapter hosts Matthew Newgent on "DEI at U.S. Military Service Academies."

The AFIO Florida Satellite Chapter is hosting Matthew Newgent, a 1996 West Point graduate, who will speak on "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at the Service Academies."
The event will commence at 11:30 a.m. at the Doubletree Hotel, 1665 N. Highway A1A, Indialantic, Florida, 32903.
Mr. Newgent's speech will follow a sit-down lunch. Cost $35.
To register or more info, contact Larry Sanford.

Saturday, 14 September 2024, 2:00-4:00pm – Washington, DC – In Store Book Signing Event for Sell Like A Spy with Author Jeremy Hurewitz – In Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

Join the Museum for an in-store book signing with Jeremy Hurewitz, the author of Sell Like a Spy: The Art of Persuasion from the World of Espionage. Tapping into the history of intelligence-gathering and his work with former agents of the CIA, FBI, and other federal departments, Jeremy Hurewitz, a foremost corporate sales and security expert and former journalist, offers field-tested spycraft strategies and government-agency tactics anyone can use to build relationships, persuade, and sell anything. Hurewitz has built his career around CIA case officers, FBI agents, and government officials—people like Steve Romano, former Chief Negotiator of the FBI; Mark Sullivan, former Director of the Secret Service; General Stanley McChrystal (Ret.), former Commander of the Joint Special Operations Command; and John Sipher, former member of the CIA's Senior Intelligence Service. Drawing on in-depth interviews about their skillsets, stunning spy-world anecdotes, and science-backed principles of behavioral intelligence, Hurewitz has created a handbook of lessons and techniques that will strengthen your ability to connect, entice, and make deals—in business and everyday life. Though a spy's targets may be odious—terrorists, criminals, corrupt diplomats, and more—the agent's focus is on cultivating relationships and understanding motivations to gather information, free hostages, or procure money. Elicitation, Radical Empathy, and RPM (Rationalize, Project Blame, and Minimize Fault) are just a few methods in this persuasion playbook from the real world of international espionage. With a foreword by Robert Grenier, former Director of the CIA's Counterterrorism Center, Sell Like a Spy puts James Bond in its dust, making you a true agent of persuasion. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 19 Sep 2024, 11:30 AM MDT – Colorado Springs - The AFIO Rocky Mountain Chapter hosts Dr. Ryan Burke: “The Polar Vortex”

Abstract: The polar paradox began in the post-WWII era. The polar reaches of the Arctic and Antarctica were simultaneously valuable strategic locations for the United States and also sites of American vulnerability.
The Polar Pivot reexamines this opportunity/vulnerability dichotomy, arguing that, today, more so than in the period following World War II, the polar regions should be a primary focus of American security discourse because they are among the most likely venues for 21st century competition and conflict.

Bio: Dr. Ryan Burke is a professor of military and strategic studies at the US Air Force Academy, an affiliate professor with the University of Alaska’s Center for Arctic Security and Resilience, and the Co-Director of Project 6633 at West Point’s Modern War Institute. Dr. Burke conducts field research in conflict zones and extreme climates, is a fellow with The Explorers Club, and is a veteran US Marine Corps officer.
For further information, contact Anthony Leto.

Thu 19 Sep 2024, 6 - 8 pm PDT - Virtual via Zoom - The AFIO LA Chapter meeting features Ricky Deutsch discussing "Hexagon - The History of Film-based Space Intelligence"

AFIO-L.A. meeting will feature guest speaker Ricky Deutsch who will present "Hexagon - The History of Film Based Space Intelligence." This presentation will be conducted via zoom with many great visuals to support the presentation. We look forward to your attendance, please RSVP attendance via email.
Ricky Deutsch, as a Captain in the Air Force, was Operations Director for a now declassified top-secret reconnaissance satellite program called Hexagon. From the Satellite Control Facility (aka the "Blue Cube") in Sunnyvale, CA, his team generated mission critical commands to be sent to the satellite. He was awarded a Commendation Medal for support of his program
Questions? Contact chapter President Vincent Autiero

Fri, 20 Sep 2024, 1130 (PT) - San Francisco CA - In-Person - The AFIO San Francisco Chapter Lunch and Presentation by Dr. Matthew Brazil on "China's Ministry of State Security."

Dr. Matthew Brazil will offer his expert analysis of China's Ministry of State Security - it's organization, expanding activities and unique culture. Followed by Q&A moderated by Lt. Col. Roger S. Dong (USAF, ret.)
Time: 11:30am no-host cocktails; 12 noon meeting start. Location: Basque Cultural Center, 599 Railroad Avenue, South San Francisco.
RSVP at Eventbrite here.
Questions? Contact Mariko Kawaguchi, Board Secretary, AFIO SF Chapter at afiosf@aol.com.

Friday, 20 September 2024, 6:00-9:00pm – Washington, DC – Educator Night Out 2024 – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

Enjoy an exclusive evening at the International Spy Museum where the red carpet will be rolled out just for teachers. Uncover the secret history of history and discover new and exciting resources to enrich your students' learning across all subjects! During this open-house event, teachers can explore SPY's permanent and special exhibits with fellow educators, meet SPY's youth education team, plan your students' next in-person or virtual SPY field trip, browse SPY's free curriculum and digital resources, and a special discount at the SPY Store. This event is open to current K-12 classroom and resource teachers only (21+) and 1 guest (21+, $25.00). This program is generously supported by Booz Allen Hamilton. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Wednesday, 25 September 2024, 6:30-7:50pm – Washington, DC – Spies, Lies, and Robots: The Rise of AI Chatbots and the Counterintelligence Dilemma with H. Keith Melton – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

AI chatbots have emerged as a significant challenge to national security, evolving from simple customer service tools to sophisticated entities capable of mimicking human behavior. This transformation poses a dilemma for counterintelligence efforts, as these chatbots infiltrate various communication channels, including social networks, dating sites, and even pornography platforms, to extract sensitive information or manipulate users. Tonight, intelligence historian and Spy Museum Board Member H. Keith Melton will explore the evolution of AI chatbots and the threats they pose across different communication channels, using advanced graphics to illustrate their capabilities. As these capabilities continue to advance, the risk of widespread disruption and compromise increases along established and emerging attack vectors. Melton will suggest ways that counterintelligence agencies can address this growing threat effectively—in particular, proactive measures such as enhancing vetting procedures and deploying advanced detection algorithms. He cautions that only through collective vigilance and concerted efforts can we effectively counter the evolving menace of AI-powered threats and hostile foreign intelligence activities. He'll also cover the pressing need to adapt national security policies to the dynamic landscape of technological espionage. Selected books by H. Keith Melton will be available for sale and signing after the event. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

October 2024

Fri, 4 Oct 2024, 11 am (ET) - McLean VA In-Person - AFIO National Fall Luncheon: JJ Green, WTOP, Morning Speaker; Afternoon Speaker Mark Kelton, Former Deputy Director of the National Clandestine Service for Counterintelligence (DDNCS/CI)

Morning speaker starts 11 a.m.: J.J. Green, National Security Correspondent, WTOP
Afternoon speaker starts 1 p.m.: Mark Kelton, Former Deputy Director of the National Clandestine Service for Counterintelligence (DDNCS/CI)
Register now while space remains. Schedule: Lunch served noon to 1 p.m. Event ends at 2:00 p.m. Luncheon prices are $60 for Members; $75 for nonmember guests and all Subscribers. Payment by credit card required at time of registration. No mailed checks or "at door" payments accepted or permitted.
Register now while space remains. Registration closes 1700 hours, Friday, 27 Sep 24 or earlier if all seats taken.
Check-in and badge pickup for Registered Attendees begins 10:30 a.m. NO registrations or walk-ins at hotel. No payments by cash or check or onsite registrations at venue.
Registration closed.

Cancellations: No refund for cancellations after 21 Sep 2024. Payment for reservations cancelled 21 to 27 Sep 2024 will be converted to donations to AFIO. Payments for reservations cancelled after 27 Sep 2024 are forfeit; the meal will have been guaranteed at the hotel, per the contract. Thank you for your understanding. All attendees must be members of AFIO or accompanied by a current member. For security reasons, we are unable to accept late or last minute substitutions for non-attendance or changes in your guests.
Questions regarding this event to events@afio.com.

5 October 2024, 2p-4p: Vintage Espionage, a wine tasting with an espionage twist hosted by former CIA officers.

Enjoy two hours of spies, sips and stories, where secrets and wine collide. Your sommelier for the afternoon, known only as DECANTER/1 (C/1) lived and served around the world. She's an expert in relationship building and persuasion and guides you through a blind tasting of old-world and new-world wines - six wines total. Along the way enjoy stories from a life on the front lines of intelligence operations from C/1 and Spyher Founder Rosanna Minchew. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply love intrigue, Vintage Espionage promises an afternoon you won't want to miss. We're especially excited to host this event at a The Grange historic schoolhouse built in 1889, a perfect venue for a pop-up speakeasy! Book here and use promo code SPYHERWINEFRIENDS for a $15 discount. Use this Eventbrite link to sign up.
Location: 9818 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066.

Thursday, 17 October 2024, noon – 1:00 PM – Washington, DC – Spy Chat with Chris Costa with Sandrea Hwang – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa will lead the briefing. Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years with 25 of those in active duty in hot spots such as Panama, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq, is also a past Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism on the National Security Council. He will be joined by Sandrea Hwang, the National Intelligence Manager for Counterintelligence and the Assistant Director at the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC). In this capacity, Hwang leads the development of strategies/plans and integration/outreach initiatives to advance the Intelligence Community's (IC) counterintelligence mission. Her office also directs and coordinates the activities of the National Counterintelligence Officers, who serve as IC leads of regional and functional counterintelligence mission areas. Prior to joining NCSC, Hwang served in a second tour at the White House's National Security Council (NSC) as the Director for Homeland Issues and Counterterrorism, where she integrated US Government policy on international and domestic terrorism issues affecting the Homeland. In that role, Hwang conducted a review of the US Government's approach to domestic terrorism issues, leading to the first ever National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism. Prior to that she served as a Section Chief in the FBI's Counterterrorism Division where she led teams assessing and countering domestic and foreign terrorist activity. Before that, she served as the Director for Counterterrorism at the NSC, leading interagency efforts to develop CT policy options and strategies. Hwang also served as the Intelligence Advisor to the Director at the Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell. She has also served in positions at the National Counterterrorism Center, the CIA, and Department of Defense. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 17 October 2024, 6:30 – 8:00 PM – Washington, DC – Agent Link with Raymond J. Batvinis – In-Person and Virtual International Spy Museum Program

On a day known in intelligence circles as "Black Friday" at the end of 1948, Moscow suddenly changed all its codes, making all its messages once again indecipherable to the U.S. Army's top secret codebreakers at Arlington Hall. The disaster can be traced back to a well-placed Soviet spy who never paid for his crimes. After Raymond J. Batvinis retired from 25 years of chasing Soviet spies for the FBI, he added a new traitor to his personal most wanted list. In his new book Agent Link: The Spy Erased From History, counterintelligence expert Batvinis reveals the full treachery of William Weisband at last. Batvinis followed up his initial Freedom of Information Act request for all 2,000 pages of the Bureau's files on the Weisband case with a similar request in 2002 with the National Security Agency for its file. Sixteen years later a package containing nearly 1,000 pages appeared at his front door. Using these records and notes taken from Weisband's KGB file in Moscow (published after the collapse of the Soviet Union), Batvinis is now able to reveal the traitor in full. This evening, former Senior Executive on the National Security Council staff, John J. Quattrocki will interview Batvinis about his pursuit of Weisband and the impact that the man who supplied the KGB "large quantities of highly valuable material" had on US intelligence. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Saturday, 19 October 2024, 2:00 – 4:00 PM – Washington, DC – In-Store Book Signing Event for National Archive Hunters with author Matthew Landis – In-Person International Spy Museum Book Signing

The Spy Museum Store is hosting a special book signing event with Matthew Landis, the author of National Archive Hunters 1: Capital Case. Twins race to find the thief stealing valuable historical artifacts before their family's framed for the crimes in this high-octane middle grade action-adventure series starter for fans of City Spies and Alex Rider. Ten-year-old Ike Carter has committed large chunks of American history to memory. That's what happens when you're a genius who loves the past. His twin, Iris, prefers the present (aka reality). She's an elite athlete, dominating the competition thanks to her wicked-sharp spatial awareness. During the opening night of a new exhibit at their mom's boutique museum in Washington, D.C., Ike and Iris inadvertently stumble onto a robbery in progress. A girl not much older than them is stealing a miniature portrait of George Washington from the collection. It's only the first in a string of crimes, all focused on items that were once gifted by the Marquis de Lafayette to his American friends. With some help from the National Archives Research Center, the twins puzzle out the culprit's next targets and are soon hot on the trail of the mystery girl. But their efforts also put them in the crosshairs of the FBI's Art Crime team, who suspect their family is involved. If the twins can't catch the real perp as they target the final item, it'll be game over. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Sunday, 20 October 2024, 6:00 – 8:30 PM – Washington, DC – Access to SPY: An Evening for Neurodiverse Adults – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

What might be a mission impossible visit during normal operating hours is now mission possible! On this special night, the Museum will open exclusively to adults (ages 18 and up) with sensory differences and their friends and/or family (adults only). This is an open house-style event and guests are welcome to arrive anytime between 6:00-7:30 PM. Guests are welcome to explore the exhibits at their own pace with less noise, fewer people, and a designated quiet room. In the exhibits, guests will have the opportunity to meet a former spy, test their code cracking skills, get in disguise, and more. Guests can also check out our special exhibition Bond in Motion, which features 17 vehicles from the James Bond movies. While this Access to SPY program is geared towards neurodiverse adults, we welcome all adults with sensory processing differences and their friends/family to attend this event (ages 18+). Visit www.spymuseum.org

Wednesday, 23 October 2024, 6:30 – 7:30 PM – Washington, DC – Russian Assassinations in the UK: Inside Three Notorious Cases with Nigel West – In-Person and Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Executions. Eliminations. Wet work. The UK has seen its share of international incidents. Renowned intelligence historian Nigel West joins us stateside to explore three infamous attacks since 1978. The targets in question were Georgi Markov, Alexander Litvinenko, and Sergei Skripal. (The Spy Museum has an umbrella weapon on display that is a replica of the one used in the assassination of Markov.) No one is better suited to take us inside these operations than West. He has written about 40 non-fiction books published on security and intelligence topics; a further 25 books edited, with contributions such as forewords or prefaces; and countless academic monographs and book reviews. He has many claims to fame including tracking down double agent GARBO in Venezuela. West then wrote GARBO's inside story of his incredible life as a double agent! West's familiarity with the shadowy wilderness of mirrors is legendary. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Wednesday, 24 October 2024, 5 - 7 p.m. - In-Person - NCF & INSF 3rd Annual Cocktails & Codebreakers event

Please join the NCF & INSF [National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF) & Intelligence and National Security Foundation (INSF)] for the 3rd Annual Cocktails & Codebreakers event
We are pleased to announce that this year's program will feature a Fireside Chat with Gen Timothy D. Haugh, USAF, Commander, U.S. Cyber Command; Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service and a special presentation by Mr. Montel Williams, military veteran/retired cryptologic officer (US Marines & Navy), actor, and motivational speaker. We are also grateful to welcome journalist Mr. Steve Scully as moderator for the Fireside Chat. Learn about our speakers & view the draft agenda or...
REGISTER HERE.

Location: The Hotel at Arundel Preserve, 7795 Arundel Mills Boulevard, Hanover, Maryland 21076
Registration Fee: $225. A selection of sponsorships are still available.
This October 24th event will celebrate Men & Women in Cryptology.
If you missed our previous Cocktails & Codebreakers programs - you can view recaps & photos of 2023 and 2022.
Questions? Email ncfinfo@cryptologicfoundation.org

November 2024

Friday, 8 November 2024, 11:30am - In-Person, South San Francisco, CA - AFIO San Francisco Chapter Lunch and Presentation by LTC Tomio "Tomes" Toyama, Army Reserve Foreign Area Officer (FAO)

LTC Tomio "Tomes" Toyama will discuss his most recent deployment to Israel, the West Bank, and Jordan while serving in the Office of the United States Security Coordinator (USSC) where he served as the Deputy Director for Operations and lead Training Advisor to the Palestinian Authority Security Forces (PASF). USSC is a unique US-led multinational organization staffed primarily by military personnel serving under State Department foreign relations authorities and funding. 

Time: 11:30am no-host cocktails; 12 noon meeting start
Location: Basque Cultural Center, 599 Railroad Avenue, South San Francisco
RSVP with Eventbrite here 
Questions? Contact Mariko Kawaguchi, Board Secretary, AFIO SF Chapter at afiosf@aol.com.

Saturday, 9 November 2024, 10 AM-4 PM – Washington, DC – 18th Annual Parade of Trabants – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

Join for the only Trabant Rally in the United States. Celebrate the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall at this festive gathering of the quintessential Cold War car—the Trabant. Despite their questionable performance and smoky two-stroke engines, these little cars are now affectionately regarded as a symbol of East Germany and the fall of Communism. Trabants are a rarity here, but on November 9 some of the finest examples in the US will chug their way to the International Spy Museum to celebrate our Eighteenth Annual Parade of Trabants. Drop in to view the famous "cardboard" cars and other vintage Cold War autos, vans, scooters, and cycles all very far from their original homes. You can even vote on your favorite! The vintage vehicles will be parked around the Museum on L'Enfant Plaza, SW. While the cars are on display, their owners will be on hand to answer queries about how they keep their cars "humming" along. Experts can answer your questions about the Cold War, Communism, and how these cars represent that time too. Perhaps, you'll be lucky enough to watch the "Wall" fall all over again. Try your hand at graffiti Berlin-style or see if you can fit into the tiny spaces like those escaping from East Berlin did, all while the Alte Kameraden German Band provides festive music. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Wednesday, 10 November 2024, noon – 1 PM – Washington, DC – Spying in Plain Sight: Inside the Military Liaison Missions in East and West Germany with Historian Bernd von Kostka– Virtual International Spy Museum Program

After World War II, the American, British, French, and Soviet armies occupying Germany exchanged military liaison missions to sort out minor issues among the armies on the ground. To enable this work, the missions were allowed to travel all over Germany. As the Cold War heated up, however, this congenial plan took on a very different meaning and evolved into a license to spy. American, British, and French liaison missions roamed East Germany photographing the latest Soviet and East German military equipment, while the Soviet missions did much the same thing in West Germany. These operations were daring and dangerous cat and mouse affairs which saw two western officers killed and many other close escapes and confrontations. Join us for a closer look at these liaison missions and the intriguing protocols and equipment supporting them. Historian Bernd von Kostka, curator at the Allied Museum in Berlin and co-author of Capital of Spies: Intelligence Agencies in Berlin During the Cold War, will give us a look at an incredible vehicle in the Allied Museum's collection related to the missions. Von Kostka will showcase the Allied Museum's Mercedes-Benz G Wagen which was used in the early 1980s by all three Western liaison missions in East Germany. These vehicles were frequently modified, so they could cope with the harsh demands of the reconnaissance tours. Joel Anderson, who was a Tour Officer at the United States Military Liaison Mission from 1988 to 1991, will share some of his personal experiences. In addition, former Spy Museum historian and curator, Dr. Mark Stout, will share related artifacts from the Spy Museum's collection. This program is in collaboration with the Allied Museum. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Thursday, 21 November 2024 11:30 AM – Colorado Springs - The AFIO Rocky Mountain Chapter hosts Dr. Jim Steiner, former CIA, on "Intelligence Support to the NSC in deciding to go to war: Kosovo, 9/11, and today"

Abstract: A brief overview of the NSC process and the traditional approach to intelligence support to the President within this process. Kosovo case study. How 9/11 changed everything. The 9/15 NSC meeting at Camp David. Intelligence support to the NSC today. What current threats could lead us into combat and the role of intelligence.
Bio: Jim Steiner has over 50 years of experience conducting, leading, managing, evaluating, and teaching intelligence. Following an overseas tour as a naval intelligence officer, Dr. Steiner joined the CIA in 1972 and served there for more than 33 years. For the first two decades, he focused on Soviet defense and economic issues, rising through the analytic and management ranks. He was promoted into the Senior Intelligence Service in 1992.
After the fall of the Soviet Union, Dr. Steiner moved to the Department of State as Special Advisor to the Ambassador at Large for Russia where he provided intelligence support and was the Ambassador's Deputy for defense conversion and crime and corruption.
Dr. Steiner then returned to CIA Headquarters where he took on a series of increasingly senior line and staff positions, including Deputy Director for Crime and Narcotics. In his final line position, he was Director of the Office of Transnational Issues which covers global energy and economic security, corruption, illicit migration, illicit financial activity, foreign denial and deception programs, societal and humanitarian conflicts, and the medical and psychiatric analysis of foreign leaders. His office also conducted long-term analyses on key issues including the future of warfare, globalization, terrorism, democracy, and demographics.
Dr. Steiner completed his CIA career as the Agency's Officer in Residence at Georgetown University. He was awarded the Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal upon his retirement in 2006. Dr. Steiner taught intelligence analysis at the FBI Academy before moving to Albany and then taught graduate courses in intelligence at SUNY for fifteen years.
Jim attended Georgetown University from 1964-1968 earning a B.S. Foreign Service with a concentration in International Economics. He received an M.A. in Economics in 1969 and a Ph.D. in Economics in 1977. After college, Jim served as an intelligence officer in the US Navy at SOUTHCOM in Panama.

For location and other information, contact Anthony Leto at rmcafio@gmail.com.

Saturday, 23 November 2024, 10 AM – Washington, DC – Members-Only Event: Virginia Hall Exhibit – In-Person International Spy Museum Program

Among the many women who served in the SOE & OSS, Virginia Hall stands out as one of the most distinguished. She not only created a sophisticated spy network but also organized and armed French commandos deep behind enemy lines. We've recently redesigned a key exhibit in our "Spies & Spymasters" gallery to showcase Hall's incredible story with compelling artifacts from our collection. Members can join for this exclusive look at Virginia Hall and the process of how updates are made to our permanent exhibit. Hannah Saloio, SPY's Exhibits Developer, will lead a formal discussion in the Museum's Theater from 10 to 10:30 AM that will then be followed by coffee and pastries and an opportunity to chat with members of the Spy Museum team. This event is free of charge and open exclusively to Spy Museum members. You can join SPY as a member online or by calling 202.654.2840. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

December 2024

Monday, 2 December 2024 at Noon - In Person - AFIO San Antonio Chapter Meets to discuss North Korean troops in Russia and Ukraine, Russian casualties in Ukraine, and other topics

The San Antonio AFIO will meet at Blue Skies of Texas West Campus in the Roadrunner Lounge.
The presentation will cover North Korean troops in Russia and Ukraine, Russian casualties in Ukraine, support levels to Ukraine from other countries, the Chinese J20 fighter that looks like a US F-35, Chinese Anti-Drone Microwave weapon, US anti-drone weapon, excerpts from F-35 GAO report declassified, and Russian bomb attacks on US bound cargo aircraft.

Blue Skies Texas West is located at 5100 John D Ryan Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78245. AFIO members attending should park in front of The Towers. AFIO Members attending should identify themselves to the Blue Skies gate guard as coming for the intelligence meeting in the Roadrunner Lounge at The Towers.

You may come early and have lunch in the dining room adjacent to the Roadrunner Lounge. Please pay with a credit card. Questions? Contact John Franklin, President, AFIO San Antonio Chapter, at satxafio@gmail.com or call 210 863-0430.

Wednesday, 4 December 2024, 6:30-9:30 PM – Washington, DC – Spy School Workshop | Surveillance: Holiday Edition with Eric O'Neill – In-Person International Spy Museum Program located at the Dupont Circle Hotel (1500 New Hampshire Avenue, NW)

City sidewalks, busy sidewalks, dressed in shadowy style…other people might be out holiday shopping, but spies never get a day off! This festive surveillance workshop in the streets of DC will be led by Eric O'Neill. Your ticket includes a festive cocktail (or mocktail if you prefer) at the post-workshop debriefing.
As a young operative in the FBI, O'Neill was put into position as Robert Hanssen's assistant with the secret task of spying on his boss, who was under suspicion of working for Russia. O'Neill's background with the FBI was in surveillance, so he was up to the challenge. But how would you measure up? This intense small group introduction to surveillance will include learning the basics and conducting surveillance from the glamourous Doyle Collection, DC hotel through the enticing stalls of the DC Holiday Market. Will you be able to track the "Rabbit" without being "made"? You'll learn how to snap clandestine shots and keep your target in view so you won't miss operational acts or clandestine meetings. The workshop will begin at The Dupont Circle Hotel. The chic Doyle Collection hotel is the perfect setting for a spy story with its location on Dupont Circle offering people-watching of epic proportion. Tickets: $225; Members $175. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Wednesday, 4 December 2024, 6:30 PM – Washington, DC – Member's Event: Behind the Bugs: Listening Devices in Espionage – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

From the Great Seal of the United States in the U.S. Embassy in Moscow to the executive conference room of the State Department, adversaries emplace listening devices to learn about the policies and intentions of their adversaries. Spy Museum Members can join this virtual discussion about "bugs," with special guest Christopher Burgess. Christopher Burgess is an award-winning writer, public speaker, and sought after commentator on security issues. He is a former senior security advisor to Cisco and has also been a CEO/COO with various startups in the data and security spaces. He served 30+ years within the CIA, which awarded him the Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal upon his retirement. While at the CIA he served in all directorates and enjoyed the pleasure of having a History Fellowship within the Center for the Studies of Intelligence. Christopher co-authored the book, "Secrets Stolen, Fortunes Lost, Preventing Intellectual Property Theft and Economic Espionage in the 21st Century" and is currently writing, with Barbara Schluetter, "The Trusted and Valued Insider (Threat/Risk)."Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Wednesday, 11 December 2024, 6:30 - 8 pm EST - Sandy Springs, GA - AFIO Atlanta Hosts Social Gathering

AFIO Atlanta is organizing a chapter social on Wednesday, 11 Dec. 2024, from 6:30 - 8:00 PM, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm at Mutation Brewery at 5825 Roswell Rd NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328.
Drop on by, share a beer and some apps, and network with your ATL area intel enthusiasts!
DETAILS: Dress Code - Casual
RSVP at this Google Form link.
Or use this Google Form Link Alternate.
If you cannot open the form, then reply by email to afioatlanta@gmail.com by noon on Tues, 10 Dec 2024.
We will send out a message on Dec. 10 at noon to confirm the event.
Questions? Contact Grant Miller, Vice President, AFIO Atlanta, at afioatlanta@gmail.com

Thursday, 12 December 2024, 12-1 PM – Washington, DC – Spy Chat with Chris Costa Featuring Special Guest Matthew G. Olson – Virtual International Spy Museum Program

Join us for an online discussion of the latest intelligence, national security, and terrorism issues in the news. Spy Museum Executive Director Chris Costa, a former intelligence officer of 34 years, will be joined Matthew G. Olsen, Assistant Attorney General for National Security at the U.S. Department of Justice. In that capacity, Olsen leads the Justice Department's mission to combat terrorism, espionage, cyber crime, and other threats to the national security. From 2011 to 2014, Olsen served as the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC). Prior to leading NCTC, Olsen was the General Counsel for the National Security Agency. For 18 years, Olsen worked at the Department of Justice as a career attorney and in a number of leadership positions. He served as an Associate Deputy Attorney General for national security and was Special Counselor to the Attorney General. In 2006, Olsen helped establish the National Security Division and served as the first career Deputy Assistant Attorney General for National Security. For over a decade, Olsen was a federal prosecutor in the US Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia. He also served as Special Counsel to the Director of the FBI, supporting the Bureau's post-9/11 transformation. Olsen began his public service career as a trial attorney in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. This program is generously sponsored by Alakai Defense Systems. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

Sunday, 15 December 2024, 8:00-10:00am – Washington, DC – Access to SPY: A Morning for the Neurodiverse Community – In Person International Spy Museum Program

The International Spy Museum is pleased to offer a sensory friendly community program geared for families who have a neurodivergent child or an individual with sensory processing differences. What might be a mission impossible visit during normal operating hours is now mission possible. On this special Access morning, the Museum has set private hours (8:00-10:00 am) for families to enjoy an exclusive visit with less noise, fewer people, and a designated quiet room. In addition, guests can participate in a scavenger hunt, decode a secret message, and get into disguise. While this program is geared for families, we welcome all ages and individuals with sensory processing differences to attend this event. This program is free of charge but requires advance registration. Visit www.spymuseum.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2025 WILL BE HERE WHEN AVAILABLE

Programs Offered by External Organizations

The National Cryptologic Foundation VIRTUAL PROGRAMS

NCF Virtual Education Programs

Details on the Virtual Education Programs of the National Cryptologic Museum Foundation are available here Other NCF Events can be found here on NCF website here, and CCH website here.

NCF #CYBERCHATS - FOR THE K-12 COMMUNITY

Our #CyberChats are designed to promote cybersecurity education and inspire students to pursue a cyber-related career. NCF #CyberChats are hosted in our Nepris online classroom and also via Zoom. The Chats feature a wide variety of cyber experts and professionals, some who are NCF members. These dedicated professionals share their experiences, insights, advice, and resources with students, parents, and teachers. Chats on a specific topic are often specifically requested by classrooms across the U.S.

NCF CRYPTOLOGIC PROGRAMS (VIRTUAL)

The NCF hosts quarterly cryptologic programs, as well as an annual Membership Meeting & Symposium featuring guest speakers. We also partner with the NSA's Center for Cryptologic History in promoting various programs & lectures. During our Anniversary year (April 2021-April 2022), we are hosting a variety of additional special programs and talks, such as our kickoff event in April 2021 that featured a panel of former NSA directors.

In 2021, we began hosting virtual programs via Zoom. However, prior to that our programs were in person. If you are interested in seeing recaps and photos from those prior events, please visit the Quarterly Programs page or Membership Meeting & Symposium page.

NCF PARTNER PROGRAMS

The NCF's Education Program hosts Cybersecurity Events with the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), as well as other community partners.The programs highlight relevant cybersecurity topics and feature experts in the field. These events take multiple forms, to include webinars and special events at locations around the National Capitol Region.

NCF PARTICIPATION

Just as the NCF enjoys interviewing professionals and experts for our #CyberChats and Cryptologic Programs, our staff likewise enjoys the opportunity to be interviewed for other organizations' programs or podcasts regarding their experience and knowledge. 

For more information on in-person and virtual activities of the National Cryptologic Museum Foundation (cryptologicfoundation.org) [NCF], explore their website at https://cryptologicfoundation.org/

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