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 AFIO Central Office
 220 Spring St
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 Herndon, VA
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 Voice: 703 790 0320
 Fax: 703 991 1278
 Email: afio@afio.com

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Released to the public 2 March 2025...

The Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror

James M. Scott
on the Carr-Scott book
"Targeted: Beirut
The 1983 Marine Barracks Bombing
and the Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror"

Interview of Thursday, 12 Dec 2024 with James M. Scott, co-author with Jack Carr, of Targeted: Beirut: The 1983 Marine Barracks Bombing and the Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror. Host and Interviewer: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
A behind-the-scenes account of a mission and a fight that changed America. It was the event that ushered in the War on Terror. And it shows the pitfalls of American hubris, overreach, and irresponsible military intervention. Paints the entire picture of mind-boggling events before, during, and after the Beirut Bombing, from ancient history to present day. The authors tell the story through voices of Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers who endured the two-year "peacekeeping" operation. We also experience the tragedy through the president, generals, and policymakers back in Washington. Another sad chapter in the Middle East's centuries old internecine struggle among its inhabitants and the price America pays for problematic policies despite history and seemingly dismissed lessons owing as much to hubris and breathtaking naivete.

Targeted: Beirut can be purchased here.
More information about other James Scott books.
For information on Jack Carr, his bio and links here.
The interview runs 27 minutes with several Q&As.

Access the SCOTT video interview here or click above image.

Podcast here.

Released to members-only on 04 March 2025

The Unraveling of Syria and America's Race
to Destroy the Most Dangerous Arsenal in the World

Joby Warrick on
"Red Line:
The Unraveling of Syria and America's Race to Destroy the Most Dangerous Arsenal in the World"

Interview of Monday, 27 January 2025 with Joby Warrick, best-selling author and a national security correspondent for The Washington Post,
discussing his 2020 book RED LINE on The Unraveling of Syria and America's Race to Destroy the Most Dangerous Arsenal in the World.
Interviewer and Host: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
The interview runs 36 minutes.
"Red Line" can be purchased here.

Access the WARRICK video interview here or click above image.

Upcoming AFIO and Intelligence Community Events
Many informative, fascinating programs are occurring in the Washington Metro Area and across the country. Find out which ones to add to your calendar to stay connected and to stay current.

Corporate
Learn how your company can make a difference with AFIO corporate memberships and marketing opportunities. Reach more than 4,800 intelligence professionals.

National Members
Join or renew your existing membership and enjoy member benefits, such as special publications, invitations to events, unique banking & investment services, scholarships, and career assistance.

Publications
As a member or subscriber you receive the popular Weekly Intelligence Notes [WINs] and the print-only academic journal: Intelligencer - Journal of U.S. Intelligence Studies for the intelligence community by intelligence professionals. AFIO also produces Intelligence As A Career - a printed and online guide to organizing your life and education to qualify for work in the intelligence community, and a Guide to the Study of Intelligence to assist college instructors, secondary school teachers of history, civics, and current events, and students, on the best readings on a wide variety of current intelligence topics.

About Us
Learn about us - our many events, publications, programs, and legislative alerts. Support AFIO with purchases and donations or meet our members at events throughout the US. Make your views known.

Chapters
Local chapters have appeal to many members, so after you have joined AFIO National, consider adding a local chapter membership to your mix.

Online version of the Guide
AFIO's Guide to the Study of Intelligence
Are You Using It?

Full no-cost, online version of Guide here.

Perfect for professors, students, those considering careers in intelligence, and current/former officers seeking to see what changes are taking place across a wide spectrum of intelligence disciplines.

AFIO's Guide to the Study of Intelligence helps instructors teach about the large variety of subjects that make up the field of intelligence. This includes secondary school teachers of American History, Civics, or current events and undergraduate and graduate professors of History, Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, and related topics, especially those with no or limited professional experience in the field. Even those who are former practitioners are likely to have only a limited knowledge of the very broad field of intelligence, as most spend their careers in one or two agencies at most and may have focused only on collection or analysis of intelligence or support to those activities.

We regret that the printed, bound edition has sold out. No copies remain for sale.

AVAILABLE ONLINE-ONLY: As an educational service to professors and students, AFIO provides the full 788-page Guide online here for free. This was made possible through the generosity of our foundation, corporate, and institutional members, coupled with the donations we received from our many individual members. We thank all of them.

Spyher Winter Savings
Through 15 March 2025 enjoy 2-for-1, and early bird specials on regularly scheduled spy tours through Georgetown, Embassy Row, Capitol Hill, and Arlington National Cemetery.
Book now on Eventbrite

Spyher Gift Cards
Give the Gift of an Exclusive Spy History Tour with a Former Intelligence Officer
Purchase an e-gift card online at https://spyher.co/gift-card/
For a physical gift card - contact rosanna@spyher.co

PUBLISHED IN 2023

Be informed on career opportunities in the U.S. Intelligence Community

Intelligence as a Career - with updated listings of colleges teaching intelligence courses, and Q&As on needed foreign languages, as well as the courses, grades, extracurricular activities, and behavioral characteristics and life experiences sought by modern U.S. intelligence agencies. AFIO's popular 47-page booklet reaches thousands of high school, college students, university guidance offices, and distributed in classes teaching intelligence, to help those considering careers in the U.S. Intelligence Community. This is the all new fifth edition. The publication is also popular with University Career Guidance Centers, professors and academic departments specializing in national security, and parents assisting children or grandchildren in choosing meaningful, public service careers. This booklet is provided online as a public service from the generosity and efforts of AFIO board, volunteer editors/writers, donors, and members. We thank all for their support which makes this publication available.

Careers Booklet (2023 Fifth Edition) can be read or downloaded here

Other Upcoming Educational Events....includes selection of events from advertisers, corporate sponsors, and others—

Thursday, 27 March and Friday, 28 March 2025 - Reston, VA - Convening to Act: Managing High Impact AI National Security Applications by National Cryptologic Foundation

Join the NCF for a multidisciplinary dialogue, including government and industry, to discuss "Managing High Impact AI National Security Applications" for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) and beyond, including small and medium-sized businesses. This will be a robust two day program with the option of attending an onsite dinner and fireside chat on the first day.
Critical issues for the use of AI in national security to be addressed at the conference include:* Legal; * Policy; * Compliance; * Security; * Equality; * Privacy implications and considerations. Agenda and other details here.
Registration: Open here.
A vegan dinner option is available. Stay tuned for additional details about dinner.
Location: Carahsoft Conference & Collaboration Center, 11493 Sunset Hills Road, Suite 100, Reston, VA 20190.

14-18 July 2025 - Cumming, GA - National Intelligence Summer Academy (NISA) - For High School Students Grades 10-12 - at The University of North Georgia, Cumming Campus, 300 Aquatic Circle Cumming, GA 30040

Are you thrilled or fascinated by the field of intelligence – spying and counter spying?

Are you considering a career in the U.S. Intelligence Community? Did you know that the U.S. Intelligence Community is made up of 18 separate agencies? Sign up for an intense and exciting five days of learning from highly qualified Master's and Ph.D. University of North Georgia instructors and practitioners from July 14-18, 2025.

This Academy will: Lift the veil of secrecy on the hidden world of intelligence, exploring the history, challenges, and controversies; Provide a context for understanding the important role intelligence has played in our nation's history and continues to play today; Provide foundational knowledge of intelligence, setting the stage for possible careers in the field; Provide opportunities to learn from the Academy's instructors include academia, practitioners, and guest speakers.
Hear from experts that have worked with the CIA, FBI, and the former Soviet Union KGB.
Explore, Apply, Learn more

Tuesday, 26 August - Friday, 29 August 2025 - Copenhagen, Denmark - The Practice of Situational Awareness sponsored by Spyher

Spyher founder Rosanna Minchew delivers this 4-day course in situational awareness, practical training that reinforces classroom instruction with on-the-streets exercises. Designed for professionals in law enforcement, security and investigations. You will learn to:
• Identify risk and potential threats to your safety
• Develop strategies to reduce those risks and threats
• Respond to unexpected situations or emergencies
• Make decisions under pressure
Register for Situational Awareness Course

Additional Events:

Saturday, 29 March 2025, 2-4pm – Washington, DC – In-Store Book Signing Event: Humble Yet Fierce with author Katy McQuaid – In-Person International Spy Museum Store Signing

Join us in the Spy Museum Store for a special book signing event for Humble Yet Fierce with author Katy McQuaid. Katy McQuaid, former deputy director of logistics in the CIA, 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 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.

30 Aug - 8 Sep 2025 - Mediterranean Cruise - Spies, Lies & Nukes announce Espionage on the High Seas! Plan NOW to join the late-summer 2025 cruise.

Instead of their traditional Spies, Lies & Nukes conference in 2024, Valerie Plame and other intelligence colleagues are thrilled to introduce an exciting variation for 2025: Spies at Sea. A combined cruise and conference through the breathtaking Mediterranean, from August 30 to September 8, 2025! See brochure here.

What to Expect:
•Intimate Conference Setting: Enjoy the same close-knit, engaging environment you've come to expect, with unparalleled access to our expert speakers.
• Exclusive Shore Excursions: Explore clandestine meeting spots, delve into espionage history, and more on excursions EXCLUSIVE TO OUR GROUP.
• Seminars at Sea: Participate in lectures and presentations led by Valerie Plame and other top intelligence professionals, all the while cruising through some of the Mediterranean's most iconic destinations.
• Special Events: Enjoy exclusive cocktail receptions, surprise activities, and one-on-one conversation time.

Exclusive Spies, Lies & Nukes Itinerary Highlights:
• Barcelona, Spain: Begin your adventure in this vibrant city.
• Valletta, Malta: Walk through history with guided tours led by espionage experts who will lift the veil on area spy stories and meeting sites.
• Mykonos, Greece: Discover the charm and beauty of this picturesque island.
• Ephesus, Turkey: Explore ancient ruins with a private guide and enjoy a unique group lunch, all while learning about intelligence activities that took place at each spot.
• Santorini, Greece: Experience the iconic beauty of Santorini with endless photographic opportunities.
• Naples, Italy: Enjoy a group lunch at a local restaurant and an exclusive walking tour with a private guide while learning a few spy secrets from Naples, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast.

We've secured a discounted rate that includes your stateroom, meals, classic beverage package, wi-fi, exclusive excursions, and all conference activities. These cabins will get booked quickly, so don't wait—book now and get $100 off!

This is your chance to combine professional enrichment with an unforgettable travel experience. Network with like-minded professionals, gain exclusive insights, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Secure Your Spot Today

The Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror

James M. Scott
on the Carr-Scott book
"Targeted: Beirut
The 1983 Marine Barracks Bombing
and the Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror"

Interview of Thursday, 12 Dec 2024 with James M. Scott, co-author with Jack Carr, of Targeted: Beirut: The 1983 Marine Barracks Bombing and the Untold Origin Story of the War on Terror. Host and Interviewer: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
A behind-the-scenes account of a mission and a fight that changed America. It was the event that ushered in the War on Terror. And it shows the pitfalls of American hubris, overreach, and irresponsible military intervention. Paints the entire picture of mind-boggling events before, during, and after the Beirut Bombing, from ancient history to present day. The authors tell the story through voices of Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers who endured the two-year "peacekeeping" operation. We also experience the tragedy through the president, generals, and policymakers back in Washington. Another sad chapter in the Middle East's centuries old internecine struggle among its inhabitants and the price America pays for problematic policies despite history and seemingly dismissed lessons owing as much to hubris and breathtaking naivete.

Targeted: Beirut can be purchased here.
More information about other James Scott books.
For information on Jack Carr, his bio and links here.
The interview runs 27 minutes with several Q&As.

Access the SCOTT video interview here or click above image.

Podcast here.

High-Stakes Negotiations to Free Americans Captured Abroad

Mickey Bergman,
author,
"In the Shadows:
True Stories of High-Stakes Negotiations to Free Americans Captured Abroad

Interview of Thursday, 26 Nov 2024 with Michael "Mickey" Bergman, the CEO of Global Reach and the Vice President and Executive Director of the Richardson Center for Global Engagement. He is also the author (with Ellis Henican) of "In the Shadows: True Stories of High-Stakes Negotiations to Free Americans Captured Abroad."
Host and Interviewer: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
Bergman is responsible for the negotiations that brought many high-profile prisoners home, including Brittney Griner, Danny Fenster, Otto Warmbier, and Trevor Reed. In the Shadows details his never-before-told stories inside the secret negotiations to free Americans from some of the world's most repressive countries, including North Korea, Russia, Hamas, and more.
In the Shadows can be purchased here.
The interview runs 57 minutes with several Q&As.

Access the BERGMAN video interview here or click above image.

Podcasthere.

The Greatest Spy Story Never Told

Jesse Fink
on MI6's Dick Ellis in Fink's latest book
"The Eagle in the Mirror: The Greatest Spy Story Never Told"

Interview of Tuesday, 1 Oct 2024 with Jesse Fink, on his new book "The Eagle in the Mirror: The Greatest Spy Story Never Told" on Charles Howard "Dick" Ellis, MI6's Top Agent in America During World War II. In search of war hero, master spy, and alleged traitor Charles Howard "Dick" Ellis.
Interviewer and Host: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
The interview runs 16 minutes.
Jesse Fink's website.
A full bio of Jesse Fink here
Purchase The Eagle in the Mirror here.

Access the FINK video interview here or click above image.

Podcast here.

The Shadow War That Forged America's Special Operations

Patrick O'Donnell
Military Historian and Author on
"The Unvanquished: The Untold Story of Lincoln's Special Forces, the Manhunt for Mosby's Rangers, and the Shadow War That Forged America's Special Operations"

Interview of Tuesday, 3 September 2024 with Patrick K. O'Donnell, military historian and author, on his new book "The Unvanquished: The Untold Story of Lincoln's Special Forces, the Manhunt for Mosby's Rangers, and the Shadow War That Forged America's Special Operations" released 7 May 2024.
Interviewer and Host: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
The interview runs 32 minutes.
"The Unvanquished" can be purchased here.

Access the ODONNELL video interview here or click above image.

Podcast here.

Tradecraft for Innovators at CIA and Beyond

Joe Keogh PhD
former CIA Science & Technology Executive and Disguise Expert, discusses his book
"Creating Mission Impact: Essential Tradecraft for Innovators at CIA and Beyond"

Interview of Thursday, 24 October 2024 with Joseph Keogh PhD, former CIA Science & Technology Executive and Disguise Expert, on his new book "Creating Mission Impact: Essential Tradecraft for Innovators at CIA and Beyond" co-authored with Joe Ball and Greg Moore.
Interviewer: Christopher J. Parker, former CIA, current Vice Chair AFIO Board.
Host: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
The interview runs 38 minutes.
"Creating Mission Impact" can be purchased here.

Access the KEOGH video interview here or click above image.

Podcast here.

A CIA Officer Imprisoned by China for 21 years

Barry Werth
on Prisoner of Lies: Jack Downey's Cold War
on a CIA Officer Imprisoned by China for 21 years

Interview of Thursday, 1 Aug 2024 with Barry Werth, author, Prisoner of Lies: Jack Downey's Cold War.
Host and Interviewer: AFIO President James Hughes, a former senior CIA Operations Officer.
They discuss the remarkable true story of the longest-held prisoner of war in American history, John Downey, Jr., a CIA officer captured in China during the Korean War and imprisoned for twenty-one years.
The interview runs 28 minutes with several Q&As.
Purchase "Prisoner of Lies: Jack Downey's Cold War" here.
"Extraordinary Fidelity" - Released 2011 CIA Documentary of CIA officers John T. Downey and Richard G. Fecteau on their remarkable faithfulness, shown not only by the men who were deprived of their freedom, but also by an Agency that never gave up hope. The film is available here.
For an in-depth look at the John Downey and Richard Fecteau saga, see "Extraordinary Fidelity: Two CIA Prisoners in China, 1952-73," by Nicholas Dujmovic, CIA Historian, in Studies in Intelligence, Volume 50, Number 4 (2006) here.

Access the WERTH video interview here or click above image.

Podcast here.