IN THE AGENCY PECKING ORDER, an Assistant Deputy Director is near the top. For someone in that position getting an audience with the director of the FBI requires little more than making an informal request. As the newly appointed head of the Joint Terrorism Task Force Division (JTTF), Mike Johansson belonged to that inner circle.
"Since it's your first day on-the-job Rashid, I've made an appointment to introduce you to Director Delong," said Mike. He and Rashid hurried down the corridor to the director's office. "The President appointed him last year. He got a narrow approval by the Senate, but that’s politics. He’s a good man."
They waited only a few minutes before entering the office. Delong set aside a report he was reading. "Have a seat gentlemen." He pointing to two leather chairs in front of his glass topped desk. FBI Director Edward Delong didn't look like the polished well-groomed government official people expected to see heading a high profile agency. His disorderly brown hair matched his wool sport coat with a frayed lining that hung an inch below the bottom of the jacket. A well chewed cigar he never lit, jutted from the corner of his mouth. "Good to see you, Mike. How’s your task force shaping up?"
"We're making rapid progress, Ed. I’ve started to assemble counterterrorist teams, and I'm currently interviewing lead investigators for each unit." Mike remained standing as did Rashid. "Today, I want you to meet Doctor Rashid al Youris. He will serve as our agency ambassador over at Homeland Security." Rashid extended his arm and shook the director's hand.
Delong held Rashid's hand in a powerful grip. "I read your resume. Impressive. How long have you worked in the private sector?"
"About five years, sir. I'm on leave from McClellen University now"
"Five years.” Delong eyeballed Mike Johansson. “Have you checked his security clearance status, Mike?"
"Not a problem, Ed. Rashid and I go way back. I will vouch for him. He is the most trustworthy guy I know.”
The Director released Rashid's hand and continued to inspect him. "Agency Ambassador is a sensitive and vital position, Doctor Youris. Interagency communication or a lack of it, affects our capacity to fight terror both in America and abroad."
"Yes, sir. I'm aware of that. I plan to make sure the flow of information from the intelligence community moves freely, into and out of the FBI."
Ed Delong shifted his attention back to Mike. "If there's anything you need, let me know. I'm in complete support of this mission." He moved the cigar to the other side of his mouth. “As for you, Doctor Youris, you have an opportunity to make a difference in this war on terror.” He clamped down on the cigar. “Good luck.”
“Yes, sir. I plan to work hard.”
As soon as Johansson and Youris thanked the Director for his time, and left the office, Edward Delong ordered a security clearance investigation on Rashid al Youris.