On March 17, 2017, Two hundred and twenty seven Law enforcement officers graduated from the FBI National Academy at Quantico, Virginia, including Aberdeen’s own Captain Josh Kirk. The graduates included officers from 48 states, and 25 Countries. Less than 1% of all Law Enforcement Officers have the opportunity to attend the National Academy which is internationally known for it’s excellent training. The National Academy Program, held at the FBI Academy, offers ten weeks of training which consists of academic training in areas including advanced communication, leadership, as well as fitness training for selected officers having proven records as professionals within their agencies. The fitness component culminates with the “Yellow Brick Road”, which is a 6.1 mile course containing obstacles such as a rope wall, repelling and rock climbing. The graduation featured speaker was FBI Director James Comey.

Captain Josh Kirk is a 13 year veteran of the Aberdeen Police Department and has served in many capacities including Patrol Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant and most recently as the patrol Captain. Graduation was attended by Josh’s wife, two children, his parents as well as Chief Wenzel and Deputy Chief Weaver, both alumni of the Academy, from the Aberdeen Police Department. A total of 49,913 graduates now represent the alumni of the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935.