Kate Warne, the worlds first female detective, provided security for President Abraham Lincoln on his entrance to Washington, D.C., in 1861.
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Another Walk Through History

Welcome to a new element of what I consider to be a very noble profession, populated by dedicated men and women providing a great service to our Country. The old view by law enforcement that confined perspectives of security as the "square badges" who did not quite make the cut to gain entry into the field of policing, has long ago given way to the recognition of the vital role that the profession plays in the protection of critical elements of the Nations' infrastructure, from nuclear power plants to military bases. The view of under-educated night watchmen has been displaced by the well-educated, highly trained professional security personnel who are an important element in the fabric of homeland security and homeland defense.

The profession provides unparallel opportunities across a spectrum of disciplines including telecommunications, banking and finance, information technology, terrorism, defense, and intelligence. One of the finest professional organizations in the world, the American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS) provides a gateway to these opportunities, professional certifications, and most importantly outstanding public service.

In the history section, there is a profile of Kate Warne who was a pioneer in many ways, gaining entry into a profession that had been previously closed to women. The field of security-from the stereotypical night watchman to the protection of a President-elect, she set the standard for others to follow of professionalism and courage throughout the ages. Since 1856, the field of security has become a key element to the protection of our Country and a vital building block in an integrated homeland security and homeland defense policy. Enjoy this new perspective and walk through history.

Dr. Kathleen L. Kiernan