NORFOLK, Va. -- A sailor from Riverine Squadron 1 was selected, July 19, as the first Navy representative to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration International Fellowship Program at Quantico, Va.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Andrew Diachok, assigned to RIVRON 1 at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek – Fort Story here, was selected for the program out of eight candidates and will begin his fellowship in September. Diachok will be assigned to the DEA’s International Training Unit for the Census Investigating Unit for six months where he’ll work as an instructor, and plan and develop a course curriculum for foreign narcotic issues.
The program is designed to develop narcotics investigation training programs that will be used to teach and train foreign law enforcement in international drug trafficking issues. Those selected for the fellowship program bring with them valuable tools and lessons learned that can be applied in developing programs.
“I thought it would be a better way for me to reach out and represent the Navy along with the DEA,” said Diachok. “That’s why I applied for the program.”
“He knows the legal side of things; gathering evidence, search and seizure, custody and accountability,” said RIVRON 1 Command Master Chief Petty Officer Ross Cramer. “He has an expeditionary mind set. He has made deployments to combat zones, and has instructor experience. He is a perfect match for the program.”
In the past, the International Training Unit reached out to the Marine Corps to form the International Fellowship Program and to develop a new training curriculum using lessons learned from Marines.
“We have used the Marine land and navigation training course for four years,” said Jim Farnsworth assistant officer in charge International Training Unit. “Each Marine who came through the program has also instructed the navigation course.”
According to Farnsworth, because of the successful fellowship with the Marine Corps the International Training Unit expanded the program to include Navy sailor with the same goal in mind, to gain lessons learned from the Navy. In return the sailor is allowed to attend a course offered by the International Training Unit. Classes range from undercover, forensic, money laundering, asset forfeiture and other courses, and the sailor is able to take that training back to their commands.
“This is a fantastic opportunity. It will develop him professionally, making him an even better master-at-arms,” said Lt. Cmdr. Hung Cao, executive officer RIVRON 1. “I hope his selection puts a good feather in his cap for promotion.”
Diachok, a 17 year veteran, reported to RIVRON 1 in July 2009 where he serves as leading chief petty officer of RIVRON 1. Upon completion of his fellowship he will return to RIVRON 1.