Honor Graduates Ceremony

Welcome

Ariana M. Roddini, Acting Deputy Director
Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers

Remarks

Paul E. Baker, Acting Director
Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers
 

Keynote

Robert J. Hammer, Acting Executive Associate Director
Homeland Security Investigations

Honor Graduate of the Year

Christopher L. Whitehurst, Special Agent
Homeland Security Investigations

Prior to 1970, the quality of training received by Federal law enforcement officers and agents varied greatly from agency to agency. Standardized training was an unexplored concept, and inadequate facilities and duplication of effort were prevalent as each agency independently trained its own personnel.

Studies conducted in the late 1960’s revealed an urgent need for high-quality, cost-effective training by a cadre of professional instructors using modern training facilities and standardized course content. Congress responded by authorizing funds for planning and constructing the Consolidated Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (CFLETC). In 1970, the CFLETC was established as a bureau of the Department of the Treasury (Treasury Order #217) and began training operations in temporary facilities in Washington, D.C.

The permanent location of the training center was originally planned for the Washington, D.C., area. However, a three-year construction delay resulted in Congress requesting that surplus Federal installations be surveyed to determine if one could serve as the permanent site. In May 1975, after an extensive review of existing facilities, the former Glynco Naval Air Station near Brunswick, Georgia, was selected. In the summer of 1975, the newly renamed Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) relocated from Washington, D.C., and began training in September of that year at Glynco. Glynco is the headquarters site and main campus for the FLETC, which has grown over the years to include facilities in Artesia, NM, Charleston, SC, and Cheltenham, MD.

On March 1, 2003, the FLETC formally transferred from the Treasury Department to the newly created Department of Homeland Security, along with some 20 other agencies. The move reflected the centrality of the FLETC’s mission in support of the unified homeland security effort, which was initiated following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

During Fiscal Year 2024, FLETC graduated a total of 68,087 law enforcement officers and agents from basic and advanced training programs.

Those eligible for FLETC’s Honor Graduate of the Year Award were 3,331 students that were basic training graduates, from eligible programs, with a 90% or higher in the three composites: highest academic average; high levels of proficiency in firearms; and surpassing physical fitness. Twelve graduates met the 90% or higher criteria in each composite making them eligible for the award.

FLETC will continue the tradition of adding the Honor Graduate’s names to the display located in the Coverdell Classroom Building, Glynco Training Delivery Point.
 

Special Agent 
Christopher L. Whitehurst
Homeland Security Investigations
 

Raised in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, Special Agent Christopher Whitehurst developed a strong sense of duty and commitment to public service. In 2010, Whitehurst signed a six-year contract with the Air National Guard (ANG), serving as a Tactical Air Control Party.

While fulfilling his ANG commitments and working full-time, Whitehurst graduated summa cum laude from Stockton University—earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Philosophy and a minor in Political Science.

Following his college graduation, Whitehurst began a distinguished career with the United States Secret Service (USSS) Uniformed Division. Initially stationed at the White House Branch, he quickly proved his capabilities and was selected to join the elite Counter Sniper Team, where he served his last five years of duty.

In 2024, Whitehurst transitioned to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), where he continued to serve with distinction. Currently based out of the Resident Agent in Charge (RAC) Office in West Palm Beach, Whitehurst applies his extensive experience and skills to investigate and combat complex criminal activities that threaten national security.

Throughout his career, Whitehurst has exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, dedication, and service. His journey from Egg Harbor City to his current role with HSI reflects a steadfast commitment to protecting and serving the nation.

Aubrey A. "Tex" Gunnels

April 20, 1918 - September 24, 2011

The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers Honor Graduate of the Year award memento (a handgun) is made possible through a gift from Aubrey A. “Tex” Gunnels, former Clerk of the United States House of Representatives, Committee on Appropriations, Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee. At Mr. Gunnels’ request, this award is dedicated to the memory of all FLETC graduates who have died in the line of duty. The FLETC is most grateful to the Gunnels Family Trust for continuing Tex’s legacy by providing the funds for the annual award.