Photo By Cpl. Eve Ililau | David Diaz, a law enforcement professional assigned to the investigation task force at...... read more read more
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BASRAH, Iraq - A law enforcement professional within the Division investigation task force at Contingency Operating Base Basra was awarded the Army’s third highest civilian award.
David Diaz received the Superior Civilian Service Award in recognition of his tireless service and selfless efforts in the pursuit of warrants and detention orders against dangerous extremists. The award was presented by Brig. Gen. William Smith, 36th Infantry Division and U.S. Division-South commanding general for maneuver.
“He worked very hard in getting and finding warrants.” said Gregory Barker, 36th ID LEP “When we were concentrating on operations for detainees, Diaz was diligent at getting warrants for detainees. He also made sure that [the warrants] wouldn’t fall through the cracks.”
Prior to being assigned to the 36th Inf. Div., Diaz had worked with elements of the 203rd Military Police Battalion, British contractors, Iraqi officers and technicians of the Basrah Crime Lab. He trained, mentored and advised Iraqi personnel in proper tactical site exploitation techniques.
The law enforcement veteran of 20 years brought together forensic evidence and witness statements in a manner that allowed the Staff Judge Advocate to present enough evidence for the Iraqi judiciary for prosecution.
Diaz traveled to Basrah city for two to three days a week to assist in training the Iraqi police recruits processing crime scenes.
“David went on many key leader engagements; he met with Iraqi judges and police to get warrants for insurgents.” Barker said.
The Florida native initiated an investigation into the counterfeiting and attempted distribution of more than $150,000 in U.S. currency in Basrah province. The investigation led to the apprehension and prosecution of the individual involved.
“You don’t often get a chance to utilize your skills and use it to help others in everyday missions.”
In his role as a LEP, Diaz, not only trained and advised, he also graduated 156 Iraqi police investigators.
“It’s a great feeling to be able to train these individuals and see them graduate.” Diaz said.
Diaz also trained U.S. soldiers at COB Basra.
“To have worked with the United States military, it’s something very special to me.” Diaz said.
Diaz will be returning home mid-January to get reacquainted with his family, and after a few months of rest and relaxation, he plans to continue training and assisting the police force in investigative work in Afghanistan.
“It’s been a great honor to be part of something very special, to be part of the armed forces and basically working against terrorism.” Diaz said. “It’s also a tremendous honor to have worked with many great soldiers that dedicate their lives out there to protect the safety and freedom of the United States of America.”
| Date Taken: | 02.05.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 02.05.2011 06:08 |
| Story ID: | 64871 |
| Location: | BASRA, IQ |
| Web Views: | 132 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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