by Regional Security Office Intern Carlos Vega-Castro, U.S. Mission to the United Nations
The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) New York Field Office (NYFO) is best known for supporting the many dignitary protection details during the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, but they are not the only DSS office in New York. DSS’ security office inside of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations (USUN), which is referred to as the USUN regional security office, performs similar functions to other DSS security offices at embassies and consulates around the world.
The USUN regional security office helps coordinate the protection details for foreign dignitaries who continually visit the UN headquarters in New York City on official business, whether for bilateral meetings or larger summits. DSS also provides 24/7 protection to U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield. With all the high-level visits at the USUN, it is important to have staff that are prepared to respond if disaster strikes.
In early October, the USUN regional security office hosted an active shooter awareness and “Stop the Bleed” training session to enhance emergency preparedness and response abilities. USUN Supervisory Special Agent Craig Goldstein, who is also known as the regional security officer, asked two special agent emergency medical technicians from NYFO to help train 36 participants. The two NYFO agents shared their expertise and experience in emergency response as tactical medics, providing invaluable insights to the participants.
The session covered a range of topics, including how to respond during an active shooter situation using the “Run-Hide-Fight” slogan. The special agents also taught the participants life-saving bleeding control techniques such as the use of tourniquets and wound packing as part of the American College of Surgeons’ “Stop the Bleed” program. Participants practiced these skills on simulators, ensuring they could apply the knowledge gained to real-life scenarios. The interactive nature of the training ensured participants’ confidence in responding to potential emergencies.
“This is the first time in memory that the USUN employees had access to this type of hands-on training,” said USUN Special Security Representative Leslie Garvin-Ferguson.
Altogether, the training underscored the importance of being equipped with the necessary skills to handle critical situations effectively, while emphasizing that lifesaving and emergency planning skills also have a role in everyday life.
“Overall, this training session was a significant step toward enhancing the safety and preparedness of employees of the USUN by equipping floor wardens and employees with vital skills that can be utilized anywhere during a crisis,” said Assistant Regional Security Officer Bruce Palombo.