The United States Secret Service bid a poignant farewell on Friday to former President Jimmy Carter, code-named “Deacon,” marking the end of an extraordinary 49-year protective detail. Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100, was laid to rest in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, following a week of state funeral ceremonies that included a service at Washington’s National Cathedral.
Carter’s protection began on October 8, 1975, when he was assigned a Secret Service detail as a presidential candidate. His nearly five decades under the agency’s watch make him the longest-protected individual in Secret Service history. “President Carter had a lasting impression on everyone at the Secret Service,” said Anthony Guglielmi, the agency’s communications director. He emphasized the inspiration agents drew from Carter’s “public service, compassion, and incredible dedication to humanity.”
Agents accompanied Carter’s casket throughout the week, ensuring his safety until his final resting place. After Thursday’s burial on the grounds of his home in Plains, the Secret Service’s official duty concluded Friday morning. In a statement, the agency acknowledged the end of their historic service: “The USSS detail for President Carter has concluded its service after completing the evening return to Plains, Georgia, and the 39th president’s internment.”
Carter’s protective detail reflects the agency’s enduring commitment to safeguarding former presidents and their families. Agents not only ensured Carter’s safety but also became part of his extended family over the decades.
Like all presidents, Carter received a Secret Service code name that reflected his personality and values. “Deacon” was chosen to represent his deep Baptist faith and lifelong commitment to his church. Even after becoming president in 1977, Carter famously continued to teach Sunday school classes, underscoring his humility and spiritual dedication.
Rosalynn Carter, his wife of 77 years, also received a code name during the 1976 White House campaign. Known as “Dancer,” her nickname maintained the tradition of alliteration often used by the Secret Service. In their later years, the Carters’ protective details merged into one unit, which served them jointly until Rosalynn’s passing in November 2023 at the age of 96.
Their children were also assigned code names during Carter’s presidency: daughter Amy was called “Dynamo,” while sons Chip, Jack, and Jeff were known as “Diamond,” “Derby,” and “Deckhand,” respectively. Their protection ended when Carter left office in 1981, as per Secret Service policy.
The nearly five-decade-long bond between Carter and the Secret Service reflects his enduring legacy as a public servant and humanitarian. Agents were present not only during his presidency but also throughout his extensive post-White House career, which included global peace initiatives and volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. Carter’s kindness and respect for his detail became hallmarks of their relationship.
“President Carter’s humility and warmth left an indelible mark on all who served him,” noted one retired agent. “He treated every member of his detail with dignity, making them feel like they were part of his family.”
As Carter was laid to rest, the Secret Service’s mission with “Deacon” came to a close. The agency’s role during the state funeral and burial reflected their deep respect for the 39th president. The conclusion of their duty marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in both Carter’s life and the Secret Service’s history.
Carter’s legacy as the longest-protected individual in Secret Service history highlights his unique impact as a president and humanitarian. The agency’s farewell to “Deacon” stands as a testament to the enduring bond between protectors and their charge, offering a final tribute to a man who dedicated his life to service, compassion, and unwavering integrity.
