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United States Secret Service Facts for Kids – Protecting The Nation!

Have you heard of the United States Secret Service?

Sounds pretty cool, huh! However, working with the secret service requires courage. But why? Let us find out more!

The United States Secret Service is an important agency responsible for protecting the President, Vice President, and other prominent figures. Almost 158 years have passed since the Secret Service was founded.

Let’s explore important milestones and interesting facts about the Secret Service’s journey in protecting the US.

History

The United States Secret Service had an interesting journey. 

They have a history of 158 years. This means the United States Secret Service is over ten to fifteen times older than most of you!

Isn’t that mind-boggling?

• Founded in 1865, the Secret Service was created for the first time to combat counterfeit currency ( Counterfeit money is fake money that people make to look like real money, but it’s not legal, and it’s meant to trick others into thinking it’s real), which was a widespread problem at the time.
• Lincoln was assassinated on the same day as the formation of the Secret Service on 14th April 1865. 
• The Secret Service’s primary focus was on investigating and arresting counterfeiters, protecting the nation’s currency, and maintaining its integrity.
• The Secret Service expanded its responsibilities right after President William McKinley’s assassination in 1901.
• Over the years, the Secret Service’s duties grew, focusing on counterfeit currency, financial crimes, protective services, and more.

A Timeline of Secret Service History:

Some important years in the history of the united states secret service society are as follows. 

• 1865: Secret Service starts to stop counterfeit money.
• 1867: Secret Service responsibilities expanded to include fraud investigations.
• 1870: The Secret Service relocated its headquarters from Washington, D.C., to New York City in 1870 and, in the later years, returned to Washington.

• 1901: They begin protecting the President after an assassination.
• 1913: Congress’ action in 1913 permanent protection for the President and statutory protection for the President-elect were enabled.
• 1917:Threatening the president and immediate family in any shape or form became a crime.
• 1936: Secret Service operatives started to get referred to as agents, as we call them now. 
• 1951: Permanently authorised the full-time responsibility to protect the President and immediate family.
• 2003: It joins the Department of Homeland Security to enhance security efforts.

Badges and Emblems:

• The Secret Service’s badges show their authority and identity.
• The Secret Service’s first badge was issued in 1873.

Fun fact: There is no reliable record of what the actual first badge of the Secret Service looked like! There goes a mystery!

• The “service star”  was first featured in 1875. The five points of the start represent justice, duty, courage, loyalty, and honesty. 

• The agency’s seal on the badge represents their commitment to protecting the nation.

• The badge size was redesigned in 1890 so that the agents could easily carry it around in their commission books. 

• The early badges of the secret service were designed and produced by the Bureau of Engravings and Printing. 

• From 1971, the badges were designed by the department graphic artist in the Secret Service.

• Different badges, like the Presidential Protective Division and Special Agent badges, have different meanings.

Transportation and Technology:

• The Secret Service used various types of transportation, from horse-drawn carriages to modern armoured vehicles and motorcades.

• The secret service has travelled with time, from horses and carriages in the 19th century to air travel in the 21st century. 

• They also have advanced technology like communication devices and surveillance equipment.

150 Years of Service and Excellence:

• The Secret Service celebrated its 150th birthday in 2015.

• They looked back at their achievements and commitment to adapt to new challenges.

• Safeguarding the country is always the  priority for the Secret Service. 

Presidential Protection

The Secret Service protects the President, Vice President, their families, and other important leaders. They create a security bubble around the President, guarding against potential threats.

The Protective Detail:

• The Secret Service assigns agents to form the President’s protective detail.

• These highly trained agents are skilled in threat assessment, emergency response, and protective tactics.

• Their constant focus is on ensuring the safety of the President.

Advance Planning and Risk Assessment:

• Before any presidential visit or travel, the Secret Service conducts thorough advance planning.

• They assess potential risks and vulnerabilities at various locations.

• This enables them to implement security measures and protocols to mitigate potential threats.

Securing the White House:

• The Secret Service ensures the President’s official residence, the White House, is well-protected.

• They maintain a tight perimeter, employ cutting-edge technology, and always have armed agents on duty.

• Visitors and staff undergo strict security screening to ensure the safety of the Presidents and the premises.

Travel Security:

• The Secret Service coordinates with local law enforcement and security agencies when the President travels.

• They conduct detailed security sweeps of venues, transportation routes, and accommodations.

• The Secret Service also manages the logistics and security of Air Force One, the President’s official aeroplane, and Air Force Two for the vice president.

Counter-Sniper and Counter-Assault Teams:

• The Secret Service employs highly trained counter-sniper and counter-assault teams.

• These teams are skilled in neutralising potential threats from a distance or in close quarters.

• They work secretly to provide an extra layer of protection during public events and appearances.

Ongoing Training and Readiness:

• Secret Service agents undergo rigorous training to prepare for any situation.

• They practice scenarios, develop physical fitness, and enhance their marksmanship skills.

• This continuous training helps maintain a high level of readiness in protecting the President.

Investigating financial crimes

You know what!

United States Secret Service has kind of a ninja-type job!

They work to stop criminals who create fake money or steal personal information to commit fraud.

Their goal is to protect the integrity of the financial systems and keep people safe from financial harm.

Collaborating with Other Agencies:

• The Secret Service sometimes partners with other law enforcement agencies, like the Federal Bureau of Investigation and local police departments, to solve more complicated cases.

• They share information and resources for effective investigations.

Collecting Evidence:

• Secret Service agents gather evidence during investigations to build strong cases against criminals.

• They collect information, interview witnesses, analyse financial records, and use advanced technology to uncover the truth.

• The evidence they gather helps in prosecuting offenders and ensuring justice is served.

Forensic Analysis:

• The Secret Service employs forensic experts who specialise in analysing evidence related to financial crimes.

• These experts examine counterfeit money, forged documents, and other pieces of evidence to determine their authenticity.

• Their expertise helps in identifying criminals and presenting evidence in court.

Undercover Operations:

• Secret Service agents sometimes work undercover to gather evidence and catch criminals in the act.

• They blend in with the criminal environment to gain valuable information and disrupt criminal networks.

• These covert operations help in uncovering hidden activities and bring perpetrators to justice.

International Investigations:

• The Secret Service collaborates with law enforcement agencies worldwide to investigate international financial crimes.

• They work together to track down criminals operating across borders and dismantle global criminal networks.

• These international investigations play a crucial role in maintaining global security.

FAQs:

Conclusion: 

The United States Secret Service has a rich history of protecting the nation. 

Their commitment to safety remains unwavering, from combating counterfeit money to safeguarding the President and investigating financial crimes. 

Applaud them for their mission to protect the country and many leaders!