I don’t have much to say, because the acts of these individuals and the lack of leadership at Armour Group and DoS speak volumes. I guess the only thing not being said in this whole deal, is bravo to the whistleblowers for having the courage to do what is right. That takes guts, to put it all on the line and call out your employer like that. You guys had the courage to do what is right.
The other thing I want to applaud in this deal, is the outpouring of commentary and passion on the subject by our small community of security contractors and bloggers. The media and public should take note that we do care about what you think, and that the acts of these few individuals, and the non-action of companies and governments, have disgusted us as well.
We are also getting tired of being hated, and for those of you looking for the way forward, I highly suggest you develop your own personal plan on how to be the best you can be on your contract. Your actions, could stop another incident like this. Your act of outstanding leadership and professionalism, will motivate others, and bring honor and respect upon your crew and this industry. Use the key elements of Jundism, and get your Kaizen on. –Matt
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Boys Gone Wild!!! The Kabul Edition, by Jake Allen
Is It Just Me?, by Eeben Barlow
Animal House: The Real Story, by Tim Lynch (This is an outstanding post, because of Tim’s experience at the Embassy)
Problems at the U.S. Embassy in A’stan, SOCNET Forum Thread
Career SEPPUKU: U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan Fires Lewd Guards, Tactical Forums Thread
WSI/Armor Group Afghanistan Embassy, Secure Aspects Forum Thread
Drank Vodka Poured Off Each Other’s Exposed Buttocks?, Lightfighter Forum Thread
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Project on Government Oversight
Sep 04, 2009
State Department Rescinds Two Resignations, Revokes Security Clearances
We’ve just received word about some of the ArmorGroup guards who have left the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan. Originally, two guards had resigned before news broke of the misconduct. We’ve heard from sources on the ground that the State Department has rescinded the pair’s resignations, fired the guards, and revoked their security clearances, meaning they won’t be able to work again as a government contractor in a war zone. In addition to the other eight dismissals that have been announced, this is a good step towards holding to account those responsible for the misconduct.We are concerned, however, that some of the dismissed contractors were younger guards coerced into the depravity. So far we’ve seen good, swift action, but we should be careful not to punish those that may have been victimized.
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