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The regional security office manages a range of physical, cyber, and personnel security programs to reduce threats to U.S. embassies and consulates and State Department personnel.

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Marine Security Guards

Under the direction of regional security officers, RSOs U.S. Marine Security Guards (MSGs) help secure U.S. embassies and consulates. MSGs protect classified information and equipment, secure diplomatic facilities overseas, and help evacuate U.S. citizens during times of crisis.
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A local guard force member monitors the embassy compound’s security cameras during a day of demonstrations near U.S. Embassy Paris, Dec. 1, 2018. (U.S. Department of State photo)

Local Guards

RSOs lead and manage a worldwide force of tens of thousands of local guards — usually citizens of the host nation — who serve as the first line of defense against potential threats and secure the exterior of U.S. embassies and consulates. These guards patrol the grounds; inspect vehicles, visitors, and packages; and respond to alarms and requests for assistance.

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Security Engineering Officers

Security engineering officers are highly skilled engineers who use electronic and mechanical security systems to protect State Department facilities and personnel around the world from technical espionage, acts of terrorism, and and other threats. [Read More]

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Security Technical Specialists

Security technical specialists (STSs) maintain and repair technical security systems and equipment to protect State Department personnel, information, and facilities around the world.
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Seabees

Seabees assist the security engineering officers at U.S. embassies and consulates with the installation and maintenance of specialized equipment including closed-circuit TV cameras, alarm systems, electromagnetic door locks, and vehicle barriers. [Read More]

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An instructor (top) with the Diplomatic Security Service’s Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) program coaches law enforcement officers with a SPEAR team from Tunisia during the weapons test at the first SPEAR Quick Response Force Summit Challenge, December 10, 2018, in Nairobi. ATA trains Special Program for Embassy Augmentation and Response teams in participating nations to respond within minutes to emergencies involving U.S. diplomatic facilities or personnel. (51 Seconds photo)

Special Program for Embassy Augmentation Response (SPEAR)

The Special Program for Embassy Augmentation Response (SPEAR) enhances the security of U.S. diplomatic posts in high-threat, high-risk environments by training law enforcement and security personnel in host nations to better respond to emergencies at U.S. diplomatic facilities. [Read More]

 

 

U.S. Department of State

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