Capt. Jeff Golden recently spent 11 weeks acquiring knowledge that will benefit the Enfield Police Department for many years to come, while developing new friendships that will last a lifetime.
The 15-year veteran of the Enfield force was one of 260 law enforcement officers who persevered through a grueling session of the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, VA.
The 251st session of the National Academy offered advanced investigative, management and fitness training. Participants came from 49 states, the District of Columbia and 29 foreign countries. Golden's roommate for the session serves as a county deputy in Florida.
Prospective participants applied to the FBI's New Haven field office, which determined who would represent the Nutmeg State. Golden and Capt. Patrick Daley of Norwich were the only two Connecticut officers selected for this session.
"It was a tremendous opportunity for the town of Enfield," Golden said Monday. "The last time we sent someone was Chief (Ronald) Marcotte in 1996."
Golden, 38, said intensive instruction was provided in fitness, labor law, public speaking, leadership, organizational change and forensic science. A typical day ran from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with two morning classes and two afternoon classes per day.
The session began on Sept. 29, and a graduation ceremony was held on Dec. 14, with FBI Director Robert Mueller serving as principal speaker.
Golden said his favorite part of the experience was networking with fellow officers from around the country and the globe.
"We're very fortunate we got the seat and could send Jeff," Police Chief Carl Sferrazza said. "The benefits are numerous."
