STONEHAM — Chief James O’Connor is pleased to report that Lt. Christopher Apalakis graduated from the FBI National Academy yesterday.
On Thursday, Sept. 17, Lt. Apalakis was among 265 law enforcement officers from across the country who graduated from the academy in Quantico, Va., where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and return to their agencies ready to serve in leadership positions.
The 299th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 44 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 28 countries, five military organizations and four federal civilian organizations.
Training at the FBI National Academy aims to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad, and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge and cooperation worldwide. Classes cover a diverse range of topics, and officers participate in a wide range of leadership and specialized training. Officers share ideas, techniques, and experiences and create lifelong partnerships that transcend state and national borders.
In addition to classroom instruction, the FBI National Academy also focuses on physical fitness, with participants engaging in three workouts per week, leading up to a final physical fitness test that all graduates must complete known as the Yellow Brick Road. The Yellow Brick Road is a 6.1-mile running course that passes through hilly, wooded terrain, with obstacles built into the course.
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields.
FBI Director Kashyap P. Patel delivered remarks at the graduation ceremony, and class spokesperson Darnel Robinson from the Metropolitan Police Department, Washington, D.C., represented the graduating officers.
“Lt. Apalakis’ graduation from the FBI National Academy is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of his dedication to professional development and leadership,” said Chief O’Connor. “The knowledge, training and relationships he gained through this experience will be an asset to the Stoneham Police Department and our entire community. We are proud to have him represent our department at the National Academy and look forward to the continued leadership and expertise he brings to our team.”
“Attending the FBI National Academy was an incredible professional and personal experience,” said Lt. Christopher Apalakis. “I am grateful for the support of Chief O’Connor and the Stoneham Police Department, and I look forward to bringing what I learned back to our department and using it to better serve the Stoneham community.”
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