DANIEL MATOS
College Station
Summary
United States Marine Corps Sergeant with over seven years of progressively responsible experience protecting U.S. Government personnel, diplomatic facilities, classified information, and critical assets in both domestic and overseas assignments. Proven leader with extensive experience in protective security operations, emergency response, force protection, access control, physical security, personnel supervision, operational planning, inspections, crisis management, and interagency coordination. Served as a Marine Security Guard at multiple U.S. Embassies in high-threat environments, including Israel during the Israel/Gaza and Israel/Iran conflicts, where I executed Emergency Action Plans, supervised Marines, coordinated with Regional Security Officers, and maintained security during sustained real-world emergencies. Selected to serve as Assistant Detachment Commander while a Sergeant due to demonstrated leadership, sound judgment, and operational effectiveness. Experienced conducting security inspections, identifying vulnerabilities, protecting classified information, supervising Marines, developing training, documenting security incidents, maintaining accountability of personnel and government property, and ensuring compliance with Department of State and Marine Corps security standards. Recognized for maintaining composure under pressure, making sound decisions during rapidly evolving incidents, and leading teams in dynamic operational environments. Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security (Cum Laude) with an active Top Secret security clearance. Seeking to continue serving the United States in a federal law enforcement position where leadership, integrity, operational experience, and commitment to public service contribute to mission success.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
Tel Aviv, Israel
01.2025 - 07.2026
- Served as Assistant Detachment Commander for a Marine Security Guard detachment responsible for protecting U.S. diplomatic personnel, facilities, classified information, and sensitive government property during one of the most operationally demanding assignments in Region 5.
- Supervised approximately 10 Marines, ensuring accountability, readiness, professional development, welfare, discipline, and operational effectiveness while maintaining continuous embassy security operations.
- Assumed duties normally performed by senior noncommissioned officers based upon demonstrated leadership ability, professionalism, operational knowledge, and mission performance.
- Protected classified information through strict compliance with Department of State security procedures governing controlled spaces, restricted areas, classified holdings, and authorized personnel access.
- Controlled entry into the embassy by verifying government-issued credentials, validating access authorizations, processing visitors, issuing temporary badges, screening contractors, and preventing unauthorized access into controlled areas.
- Operated electronic access control systems, badge systems, CCTV monitoring systems, intrusion detection systems, emergency communications equipment, secure radios, and alarm monitoring equipment while maintaining continuous situational awareness.
- Conducted continuous interior and exterior security patrols throughout embassy compounds to identify suspicious persons, suspicious vehicles, unattended packages, security vulnerabilities, safety hazards, and indicators of hostile surveillance.
- Performed random anti-terrorism patrols utilizing unpredictable movement patterns to strengthen embassy force protection and reduce exploitable vulnerabilities.
- Conducted physical security inspections of embassy facilities, controlled areas, access points, perimeter security measures, emergency exits, and security equipment to ensure compliance with Department of State security standards.
- Identified security deficiencies, documented findings, notified leadership, and assisted in implementing corrective actions to reduce operational risk and improve overall security posture.
- Responded immediately to security alarms, emergency notifications, suspicious activity reports, and rapidly evolving incidents while maintaining professional judgment and adherence to established procedures.
- Hours Worked: 40+ hours per week (frequently exceeded during emergency operations)
- Employer: United States Marine Corps
- Supervisor: Available Upon Request
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
Tel Aviv, Israel
01.2025 - 07.2026
- Responded to repeated real-world rocket and missile attacks targeting the Tel Aviv metropolitan area by immediately implementing Emergency Action Plan (EAP) procedures, directing embassy personnel to designated protected shelter locations, maintaining accountability of approximately 160 personnel, and communicating status updates through the chain of command while ensuring continuity of security operations.
- Maintained operational effectiveness during sustained 12-hour security operations throughout the Israel/Iran conflict, adapting security procedures to changing threat conditions while ensuring continuous protection of U.S. Government personnel, facilities, and classified information.
- Assisted embassy leadership during emergency situations by maintaining accurate accountability of personnel, coordinating movement to protected areas, confirming headcounts, and providing timely updates regarding personnel status and security conditions.
- Coordinated daily security operations with Regional Security Officers (RSOs), Assistant Regional Security Officers, Local Guard Force personnel, embassy staff, and Marine Security Guard leadership to ensure compliance with Department of State security policies and operational directives.
- Monitored developing security threats through continuous observation, intelligence updates, alarm notifications, radio traffic, and reports from embassy personnel, enabling rapid assessment and implementation of protective measures.
- Conducted behavioral observation of visitors, contractors, employees, and other individuals entering the embassy, identifying suspicious indicators and reporting concerns through established reporting procedures.
- Conducted physical inspections of security barriers, controlled access points, emergency equipment, security systems, and perimeter areas to identify vulnerabilities before they could affect mission readiness.
- Enforced Department of State security regulations governing access to restricted areas, ensuring only properly authorized personnel entered spaces containing classified information and sensitive government assets.
- Protected classified information by enforcing safeguarding procedures, controlling access to classified workspaces, verifying clearance requirements, and immediately reporting security concerns.
- Operated secure communications equipment during routine operations and emergency situations, ensuring timely dissemination of information between Marine Security Guards, embassy leadership, and Regional Security Office personnel.
- Documented security incidents through detailed operational logs, incident reports, inspection documentation, and after-action reviews that supported leadership decision-making and continuous improvement of security procedures.
- Prepared written reports describing security incidents, emergency responses, suspicious activity, equipment deficiencies, accountability actions, and operational observations while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Participated in security planning meetings to review existing procedures, evaluate emerging threats, and recommend improvements designed to strengthen embassy force protection.
- Assisted with scheduling personnel assignments, ensuring appropriate staffing levels, balancing operational requirements, and maintaining readiness during periods of increased threat activity.
- Supervised junior Marines during routine operations, emergency incidents, inspections, and training events while ensuring compliance with established standards, professionalism, and accountability.
- Counseled and mentored Marines regarding professional development, operational performance, military standards, and mission expectations, contributing to increased readiness and improved team performance.
- Evaluated individual Marine performance during routine operations and emergency situations, providing feedback to improve tactical decision-making, communication, and operational effectiveness.
- Served as Assistant Training Noncommissioned Officer by planning, coordinating, conducting, documenting, and evaluating detachment training designed to improve emergency response capabilities and mission readiness.
- Developed realistic training scenarios based on current operational threats involving active intruder response, fire emergencies, casualty evacuation, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), accountability procedures, emergency communications, and building evacuations.
- Conducted after-action reviews following training exercises and real-world incidents, identifying lessons learned, recommending procedural improvements, and implementing corrective actions to strengthen future performance.
- Ensured all required training was properly documented and completed in accordance with Marine Corps and Department of State requirements while tracking readiness across the detachment.
- Demonstrated calm leadership and sound judgment while operating in one of the Department of State’s highest-threat overseas assignments, maintaining security operations despite rapidly changing operational conditions.
- Earned recognition from senior leadership for exceptional performance as Assistant Detachment Commander, successfully performing responsibilities normally entrusted to more senior personnel while maintaining mission effectiveness in a dynamic operational environment.
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
Tel Aviv, Israel
01.2025 - 07.2026
- Selected to serve as Assistant Detachment Commander based upon demonstrated leadership, maturity, operational judgment, and ability to successfully manage Marines during complex overseas security operations.
- Assisted the Detachment Commander with daily supervision of personnel, ensuring Marines remained prepared to execute protective security missions while maintaining compliance with Marine Corps and Department of State standards.
- Maintained accountability for personnel, weapons, sensitive equipment, communications equipment, and government property while ensuring all assigned resources remained operational and available for mission requirements.
- Assisted with development of daily schedules, watch bills, training plans, operational assignments, and manpower management to ensure continuous embassy security coverage.
- Verified Marines met required training standards before assuming operational responsibilities and corrected deficiencies through counseling, instruction, and additional practical training.
- Conducted professional counseling with junior Marines to reinforce accountability, discipline, military bearing, operational readiness, and leadership development.
- Evaluated Marines during routine security operations, emergency incidents, and training exercises while providing constructive performance feedback designed to improve mission effectiveness.
- Maintained accurate administrative documentation supporting accountability, training completion, inspections, operational readiness, and detachment management.
- Assisted with preparation and execution of command inspections by ensuring required documentation, accountability procedures, and operational programs complied with Marine Corps and Department of State directives.
- Successfully maintained zero discrepancies within assigned inspection responsibilities through continuous monitoring, corrective action, and attention to detail, contributing to improved inspection performance compared to previous inspection cycles. This accomplishment is reflected in your FITREP.
- Applied systematic inspection procedures to identify administrative deficiencies, accountability concerns, equipment issues, and security vulnerabilities before they affected operational readiness.
- Coordinated corrective actions with detachment leadership to resolve inspection findings while maintaining compliance with applicable regulations and established operating procedures.
- Demonstrated exceptional organizational ability by balancing supervisory responsibilities with operational security duties in a continuously evolving threat environment.
- Supported logistical planning and administrative coordination necessary to sustain continuous embassy security operations during periods of increased operational tempo.
- Assisted in maintaining mission readiness throughout prolonged regional conflict by ensuring Marines remained equipped, informed, medically prepared, and capable of responding immediately to emergency situations.
- Ensured accountability of Marines before, during, and after emergency events through systematic personnel tracking procedures and continuous communication with leadership.
- Assisted leadership with operational decision-making by providing accurate information regarding personnel accountability, security conditions, ongoing incidents, and available resources.
- Demonstrated flexibility by adapting security operations to changing intelligence, evolving threats, and updated Department of State guidance without interrupting embassy operations.
- Maintained professional relationships with embassy personnel, Regional Security Office representatives, Local Guard Force leadership, and host-nation security personnel to support coordinated security operations.
- Participated in mission planning discussions addressing emergency response procedures, force protection measures, access control policies, inspection readiness, and security improvements.
- Ensured Marines understood and complied with Department of State regulations governing use of force, access control, classified information protection, emergency response, visitor control, and embassy security operations.
- Demonstrated sound judgment during rapidly evolving incidents by prioritizing life safety, mission accomplishment, protection of classified information, and continuity of government operations.
- Reinforced a culture of professionalism, accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement within the detachment through daily leadership and personal example.
- Conducted security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and enhance facility safety protocols.
- Monitored access points and performed routine inspections to ensure compliance with security standards.
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
Quantico, Virginia
01.2024 - 12.2024
- Assigned to the Marine Security Augmentation Unit (MSAU), a specialized organization responsible for providing rapidly deployable security support to United States diplomatic missions, Marine Security Guard detachments, and Department of State operations worldwide.
- Supported protective security operations safeguarding United States Government personnel, diplomatic facilities, classified information, and sensitive government assets during domestic and overseas missions.
- Participated in protective security operations supporting the Secretary of State during an official diplomatic visit to Guatemala, assisting with protective security measures, accountability, access control, communications, and mission coordination while operating alongside Department of State personnel and other security partners.
- Successfully completed Augmentation Orientation Development assignments in Rabat, Morocco, and Banjul, The Gambia, strengthening embassy security capabilities and reinforcing Marine Security Guard detachments operating overseas.
- Assisted embassy detachments by integrating into existing security operations with minimal transition time while maintaining operational effectiveness and compliance with Department of State security standards.
- Adapted rapidly to unfamiliar operational environments, security procedures, personnel, and regional threat conditions while maintaining mission readiness.
- Conducted protective security duties involving controlled access points, physical security, visitor management, personnel accountability, classified information protection, and emergency preparedness.
- Maintained continuous accountability of personnel, sensitive equipment, communications equipment, weapons, and mission-essential assets throughout overseas deployments.
- Assisted in developing security solutions to support embassy operations during periods of increased operational requirements.
- Coordinated daily with Marine Security Guard leadership, Regional Security Officers, embassy personnel, and host-nation partners while supporting protective security operations.
- Participated in operational planning discussions addressing contingency response, emergency procedures, accountability, logistical support, and force protection measures.
- Conducted inspections of equipment, communications systems, security resources, and operational readiness prior to mission execution.
- Verified accountability of assigned equipment before, during, and after operational deployments while ensuring serviceability and mission readiness.
- Demonstrated the ability to rapidly integrate into multiple embassy environments while maintaining Department of State security standards and operational continuity.
- Maintained professionalism while working with personnel from multiple agencies, military units, and host-nation organizations during complex diplomatic security missions.
- Applied Marine Corps leadership principles to support mission accomplishment while maintaining accountability, discipline, and operational excellence.
- Participated in emergency response planning designed to protect embassy personnel during crises, civil disturbances, terrorist threats, natural disasters, and other emergency situations.
- Assisted with implementation of Emergency Action Plans during training events to ensure embassy personnel understood evacuation procedures, accountability requirements, emergency communications, and designated shelter locations.
- Demonstrated flexibility by transitioning between multiple overseas assignments while maintaining operational effectiveness under changing mission requirements.
- Contributed to overall embassy readiness by supporting force protection initiatives, training programs, inspections, accountability procedures, and emergency preparedness activities.
- Maintained awareness of evolving security threats through continuous communication with leadership and operational briefings while adjusting security posture as required.
- Supported mission success through attention to detail, professionalism, adaptability, and consistent execution of established security procedures.
- Hours Worked: 40+ Hours Per Week
- Employer: United States Marine Corps
- Supervisor: Available Upon Request
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
N’djamena, Chad
01.2023 - 12.2024
- Protected classified information and sensitive government property while enhancing Department of State security measures in high-threat environments.
- Oversaw access control measures and visitor processing to safeguard sensitive information and enhance overall security operations.
- Controlled access to embassy facilities by verifying government credentials, validating authorization levels, issuing visitor badges, processing contractors and official visitors, and preventing unauthorized entry into controlled areas.
- Conducted security screening procedures for visitors while ensuring compliance with established security regulations and maintaining professional interaction with embassy personnel and host-nation nationals.
- Maintained continuous surveillance of entry control points, controlled spaces, and surrounding embassy areas to detect suspicious activity, unauthorized access attempts, or security concerns.
- Conducted interior and exterior security patrols of embassy grounds, administrative offices, controlled areas, Marine Security Guard spaces, and perimeter security locations to identify vulnerabilities and maintain a secure environment.
- Monitored electronic security systems, alarm systems, communications equipment, and security cameras while maintaining situational awareness during routine operations and emergency incidents.
- Responded immediately to security alarms, suspicious activity, emergency notifications, and requests for security assistance while following Department of State emergency procedures.
- Protected classified information by enforcing safeguarding procedures, restricting access to authorized personnel, verifying security clearances, and maintaining accountability of classified workspaces.
- Prepared operational logs documenting security activities, visitor processing, equipment status, unusual incidents, emergency responses, and daily operational information.
- Authored detailed incident reports describing suspicious activity, emergency events, security concerns, equipment deficiencies, and operational observations to support leadership decision-making and official documentation requirements.
- Conducted security inspections of embassy facilities, access control systems, emergency equipment, and physical security measures to identify deficiencies and recommend corrective actions.
- Assisted leadership with vulnerability assessments designed to strengthen force protection and improve embassy security.
- Participated in emergency response exercises involving fire response, medical emergencies, evacuation procedures, accountability, shelter operations, and emergency communications.
- Assisted with implementation of Emergency Action Plans by directing personnel during training exercises, maintaining accountability, and verifying completion of required emergency procedures.
- Coordinated with Regional Security Office personnel, Local Guard Force members, embassy employees, contractors, and host-nation security personnel to support daily security operations.
- Developed positive working relationships with host-nation security personnel while maintaining professional representation of the United States Marine Corps and the Department of State.
- Collaborated with military personnel to develop and implement emergency response strategies.
Field Artillery Cannoneer / Section Chief
United States Marine Corps
Jacksonville, NC
12.2018 - 10.2023
- Successfully completed Marine Corps recruit training followed by Military Occupational Specialty training as an 0811 Field Artillery Cannoneer, developing proficiency in weapons employment, communications, tactical operations, and team coordination.
- Supported artillery operations through safe operation, maintenance, accountability, and employment of crew-served weapon systems during training exercises and operational missions.
- Maintained accountability of artillery equipment, weapons, communications equipment, vehicles, optics, and mission-essential gear valued in excess of $1.5 million, ensuring equipment remained operational and immediately available for mission requirements.
- Conducted preventive maintenance inspections and services (PMCS) on assigned weapons systems, tactical vehicles, communications equipment, and associated gear, identifying deficiencies before they affected operational readiness.
- Assisted in planning and executing live-fire exercises by preparing equipment, verifying safety requirements, establishing communications, and coordinating with section leadership.
- Applied Marine Corps Operational Risk Management principles before training events and live-fire operations to reduce hazards while maintaining mission effectiveness.
- Enforced strict weapons safety procedures during live-fire training, ensuring compliance with Marine Corps regulations and preventing injuries or equipment damage.
- Participated in field training exercises requiring operation in austere environments under physically demanding conditions while maintaining accountability of personnel and equipment.
- Assisted with movement of tactical equipment and vehicles through convoy operations while maintaining security, accountability, and communications.
- Operated tactical communications equipment to maintain coordination between section leadership and higher headquarters during training and operational events.
- Maintained accurate accountability of assigned ammunition, weapons, communications equipment, and sensitive items throughout training exercises and field operations.
- Assisted section leadership with distribution of responsibilities, coordination of equipment, preparation of firing positions, and mission execution.
- Demonstrated the ability to rapidly receive instructions, communicate effectively, and execute assigned responsibilities while operating in fast-paced environments requiring precision and teamwork.
- Maintained high standards of physical fitness, military appearance, discipline, and professionalism throughout active-duty service.
- Assisted in training newly assigned Marines on equipment operation, maintenance procedures, safety standards, and tactical responsibilities.
- Participated in recurring weapons qualifications, professional military education, tactical training, and leadership development designed to improve operational readiness.
- Demonstrated adaptability by successfully transitioning from a conventional combat arms Military Occupational Specialty into the Marine Security Guard program, requiring extensive additional screening, training, and certification.
- Earned selection for the Marine Security Guard Program, reflecting a record of professionalism, maturity, reliability, and suitability for assignments protecting United States diplomatic facilities overseas.
- Maintained effective communication while operating as part of small teams responsible for accomplishing complex missions under time-sensitive conditions.
- Performed physically demanding tasks requiring endurance, attention to detail, coordination, and disciplined execution while maintaining safety and mission effectiveness.
- Maintained accountability of fellow Marines during training exercises and field operations by ensuring personnel readiness, equipment accountability, and compliance with established procedures.
- Demonstrated reliability by consistently accomplishing assigned missions while meeting operational timelines and maintaining high performance standards.
- Applied sound judgment under stressful conditions while balancing mission accomplishment, personnel safety, equipment accountability, and adherence to Marine Corps standards.
- Hours Worked: 40+ Hours Per Week (field exercises, deployments, and training frequently exceeded normal schedules)
- Employer: United States Marine Corps
- Supervisor: Available Upon Request
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Homeland Security
American Public University System (American Military University)
06.2026
Skills
- Protective Security Operations
- Physical Security
- Access Control
- Credential Verification
- Badge Administration
- Visitor Processing
- Force Protection
- Anti-Terrorism Operations
- Threat Recognition
- Threat Assessment
- Behavioral Observation
- Security Inspections
- Vulnerability Assessments
- Emergency Response
- Crisis Management
- Incident Reporting
- Operational Planning
- Report Writing
- Personnel Supervision
- Leadership
- Risk Management
- Training Development
- Emergency Action Plans
- Accountability
- Classified Material Protection
- Interagency Coordination
- Tactical Decision Making
- Conflict De-escalation
- Situational Awareness
- Team Leadership
- Mission Planning
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Electronic Access Control Systems
- CCTV Monitoring Systems
- Alarm Monitoring Systems
- Intrusion Detection Systems
- Secure Radio Communications
- Government Accountability Documentation
- Digital Report Preparation
- Security Inspection Documentation
Accomplishments
- Selected for the Marine Security Guard Program following successful screening and qualification.
- Entrusted to serve as Assistant Detachment Commander while a Sergeant in a high-threat operational environment, reflecting confidence from senior leadership.
- Successfully supported embassy security operations during the Israel/Gaza and Israel/Iran conflicts while maintaining mission readiness and protecting U.S. Government personnel.
- Achieved zero discrepancies during assigned inspection responsibilities through detailed accountability and compliance with established standards, improving on prior inspection performance.
- Earned a Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security with Cum Laude honors while serving on active duty.
Certification
- Marine Security Guard School
- Department of State Embassy Security Procedures
- Physical Security Operations
- Access Control Procedures
- Visitor Control Procedures
- Classified Material Protection
- Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Procedures
- Force Protection Operations
- Anti-Terrorism Awareness
- Security Inspections
- Vulnerability Assessments
- Assistant Detachment Commander
- Assistant Training Noncommissioned Officer
- Marine Corps Leadership Development
- Small Unit Leadership
- Personnel Supervision
- Counseling and Mentoring
- Operational Planning
- Training Development
- Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC)
- Casualty Collection Point Operations
- Emergency Evacuation Procedures
- Fire Response Procedures
- Active Intruder Response
- Shelter Accountability Procedures
- Crisis Management
- Emergency Communications
- Rifle Qualification
- Pistol Qualification
- Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Level I Certification
- Use of Force Training
- Weapons Safety
- Weapons Accountability
- Tactical Movement
- Defensive Security Procedures
- Incident Report Writing
- After Action Reviews
- Operational Documentation
- Security Logs
- Personnel Accountability
- Mission Planning
- Risk Management
- Inspection Management
- Government Property Accountability
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
01.2025 - 07.2026
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
01.2025 - 07.2026
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
01.2025 - 07.2026
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
01.2024 - 12.2024
Marine Security Guard
United States Marine Corps
01.2023 - 12.2024
Field Artillery Cannoneer / Section Chief
United States Marine Corps
12.2018 - 10.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Homeland Security
American Public University System (American Military University)
ACTIVE SECURITY CLEARANCE
- Active Top Secret Security Clearance
- Eligible to access classified information and secure government facilities
- Extensive experience safeguarding classified material in accordance with Department of State and Marine Corps regulations
ADDITIONAL FEDERAL SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
- Throughout my military career, I have routinely demonstrated experience directly applicable to federal law enforcement positions by:
- Leadership
- Supervising Marines in both routine and emergency situations.
- Providing mentoring, counseling, and professional development.
- Assigning duties and monitoring performance.
- Maintaining accountability of personnel.
- Physical Security
- Protecting U.S. Government facilities.
- Controlling access to restricted areas.
- Conducting patrols.
- Identifying security vulnerabilities.
- Inspecting government property.
- Emergency Response
- Responding to rocket attacks.
- Implementing Emergency Action Plans.
- Maintaining accountability during emergencies.
- Coordinating emergency communications.
- Supporting continuity of operations.
- Report Writing
- Preparing incident reports.
- Writing operational logs.
- Completing inspection documentation.
- Conducting after-action reviews.
- Documenting security deficiencies.
- Investigative Observation
- Identifying suspicious persons.
- Identifying suspicious behavior.
- Recognizing security threats.
- Monitoring controlled areas.
- Reporting security concerns.
- Federal Security Procedures
- Protecting classified information.
- Enforcing Department of State security policies.
- Controlling access based on security clearances.
- Coordinating with Regional Security Officers.
- Working alongside federal personnel in diplomatic environments.
AWARDS & DECORATIONS
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (2 Awards), Marine Security Guard Ribbon, Certificate of Commendation (Individual), Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon, Letter of Appreciation (2 Awards)