U.S. Embassy Celebrates Fourth Graduation of U.S.-Trained Internal Security Forces Cadets

December 19, 2008

The U.S. Embassy, represented by Virginia Ramadan congratulated the fourth and fifth classes of  289 Internal Security Forces (ISF) police cadets who graduated from the U.S.-funded police training program and presented them with their certificates.  She also congratulated the 23 graduates of the first Supervision and Management Course and the 43 officers and non-commissioned officers who participated in the Basic Instructor Training course.  Ms. Ramadan directs the Embassy’s program of assistance to the Internal Security Forces.

The training program is part of the ongoing $78 million law enforcement assistance program, through which the United States is assisting the ISF to enforce the rule of law and protect the Lebanese people.

 The cadet course is a ten-week, state-of-the-art training program, taught by U.S. instructors and curriculum developers with the assistance of Lebanese police and legal professionals.  Cadets learn the latest policing and law enforcement skills and how to apply these to on-the-job situations. 

The Supervision and Management Course focuses on technical and leadership skills development so that non-commissioned officers can effectively lead field police units.  Those who participated in the Basic Instructor Training course will now work with the U.S. trainers in the classrooms.

The U.S. Government has been assisting the ISF since October 2006 through several programs.  The U.S. Government is committed to supporting Lebanon, the ISF and the Lebanese people.