So, What's a "CID Agent" anyway?

When folks learn that I'm deploying, one of their first questions is, "What kind of job will you be doing over there?"  The answer, "CID Special Agent", usually produces a polite "Huh?" from the non-Army people. Since most people relate to TV shows, I ask if they watch "NCIS" (starring Mark Harmon, on the CBS television network!), and say that is kind of what I'll be doing, but without the gorgeous Israeli agent, tattooed goth forensics genius, or the truly annoying Agent DeNozo...which rhymes with "Bozo" for good reason.  Anyway, for those of you who don't watch the show, or prefer to know the reality-based answer, we are responsible for investigating felony-level crimes (i.e. death investigations, sexual assaults, major theft and fraud, drug sales)  alleged to have been committed by Army people, including soldiers and contractors. We support the forensics labs with evidence collection, and also can provide security for high-ranking Army and Pentagon officials. I've included a photo showing a deployed CID Special Agent. (you can tell by the "CID" patch on the left shoulder, and the "U.S." patch on the chest where there is normally a rank insignia...most of us don't wear insignia so that we can interview soldiers of higher and lower rank without that ol' hierarchy thing getting in the way.) Yes, the cool shades are issued, and he's undoubtedly humming, "Flight of the Valkyries"...