Customer Reviews

To Be a U.S. Secret Service Agent

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

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

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

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

As the leading civilian authority on the Secret Service, I highly recommend this great book on the agency by Mr. Holden. nice pictures and easy-to-read text, as well. Two thumbs up!

Vince Palamara
author of "Survivor's Guilt: The Secret Service & The Failure To Protect The President"

If you ever thought it would be like to strap on a pair of sunglasses and protect the world's most important leaders, this book is for you....great pics and tons of great info!

This is a very informative book. I know a few USSS Agents and from what they have told me, this book is pretty much in line with the way the agency operates. Obviously a book like this isn't going to tell you everything, but it does do a good job of giving folks an elementary knowledge of the USSS. I would definitely recommend this book to anybody interested in becoming a federal agent.

This book is superb at explaining what the different branches of the USSS are and what their jobs are. It also details what an applicant needs to do in order to pass interviews, and what is done at the James J. Rowly training center. Its got great insight, and is a must buy for a young person interested in starting a career with the United States Secret Service.

It's an interesting subject - got it for a friend, I did read it first though - really quick read with helpfull info; a little of it may be a bit base - but useful nonetheless.

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

I have an answer to the question now of what is the worst book I have ever read. This book takes the cake hands down. Take away the glossy pictures and you are left with a cold, frozen, solid turd hidden under a layer of snow. Coincidently, that is also its value...