‘Grateful for the opportunity’: Big Island police lieutenant graduates from FBI National Academy
Hawai‘i Police Department Lt. Kevin Brodie is the latest member among the department’s ranks to receive new knowledge, experience broader perspectives and make lasting memories and meaningful professional connections as a participant of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy.
Brodie was among 265 law enforcement professionals representing 44 states, the District of Columbia, 28 countries, five military organizations and four federal civilian organizations to graduate Sept. 17 in Quantico, Va., as part of the academy’s 299th session.
The lieutenant is an 18-year veteran of Hawai‘i Police Department and serves with the department’s Special Response Team. Brodie also served as a patrol officer, field training officer, Special Response Team tactical operator and Juvenile Aid Section detective throughout his tenure.
FBI National Academy is internationally recognized for its academic excellence. It is a 10-week program of advanced professional study and physical training for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders.
Participants are nominated by their individual agencies based on demonstrated leadership.
Less than 1 percent of officers are selected nationally to attend.
The program is conducted at the same facility where new FBI agents and intelligence analysts are trained.
Participants in addition to their academic coursework complete rigorous fitness training, culminating in the “Yellow Brick Road,” a grueling 6.1-mile obstacle course through hilly terrain featuring running through creeks, climbing walls, jumping through simulated windows, scaling rock faces with ropes, crawling under barbed wire in muddy water, maneuvering across a cargo net and more.
“I am very proud of Lt. Brodie,” said Hawai‘i Police Department Chief Reed Mahuna. “The FBI National Academy experience will serve him very well.”
Mahuna added that the department appreciates the opportunity to send officers to the academy because it is a chance for them to receive invaluable and important professional development.
Hawai‘i Police Department nominated several officers to attend the academy since 1947, with 11 graduates currently serving in ranks from lieutenant to deputy chief.
Brodie has been recognized for his service with multiple awards, including two Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaiʻi Officer of the Month awards, as well as the 2019 Hawaiʻi State Law Enforcement Officials Association Officer of the Year Award and Certificate of Valor.
“This experience provided me with new knowledge, broader perspectives, lasting memories and meaningful professional connections,” said Brodie. “I am grateful for the opportunity to attend the FBI National Academy and look forward to applying what I have learned in service to my department and the community.”
