Recognizing the Professionals Behind the Scenes
There are many successful professionals who work behind the scenes every day. Their contributions may not always receive the recognition they deserve, but their work is essential to the success of law enforcement, corrections, and public safety.

    September 20, 2026, was National Crime and Intelligence Analyst Appreciation Day.
This observance provides an opportunity to recognize the professionals who bring clarity to complex problems and transform information into intelligence that supports informed decision-making and safer communities.

    At first, I thought it might have been someone in a single-engine plane attempting some kind of stunt by flying between the two towers. When I arrived at my destination, I learned that another plane had crashed into the South Tower. At that point, we realized this was a terrorist attack.

    Across corrections, law enforcement, and public safety, intelligence analysts play a critical role in identifying threats, uncovering connections, analyzing information, and providing the insights necessary to support investigations and operations. Their expertise, analytical discipline, and commitment to the profession continue to strengthen the intelligence community and enhance collaboration among agencies.

    The NJNEOA is proud to recognize and thank the intelligence analysts whose work supports our mission and contributes to the safety of our communities. We appreciate your service, your expertise, and your continued commitment to excellence.

    Inspiring the Next Generation of Analysts
When I speak with students at Fairleigh Dickinson University and Bergen Community College about the responsibilities and career opportunities associated with intelligence analysis, the response is particularly encouraging.

    Many students are interested in pursuing careers in law enforcement and public safety but may not necessarily envision themselves in traditional roles that require carrying a firearm. Intelligence analysis provides another important avenue through which individuals can serve their communities and contribute meaningfully to public safety.

    The intelligence profession demonstrates that there are many ways to make a difference. Analysts use critical thinking, research, technology, communication, and analytical skills to help connect information and provide decision-makers with the intelligence they need.

    One of the most well-known examples of the critical role analysts can play in national security involved the work of CIA analysts, including the group sometimes referred to as “The Sisterhood,” who contributed to the intelligence effort surrounding the search for Osama bin Laden, the al-Qaeda leader responsible for the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Their work illustrates how professionals operating behind the scenes can make an extraordinary contribution to missions of national and international importance.

    The lesson is clear: You do not always have to be on the front line to make a difference. Whether through leadership, intelligence analysis, investigations, corrections, or other public-safety professions, each of us has an opportunity to contribute.

    To all of our members and colleagues: thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and service. Please take care of yourselves—physically and mentally. Look out for one another, support your colleagues, and remember that your family needs you home.

    STAY WELL, STAY SAFE.