Counter-Terrorism Expert Appointed To Be New Chief Of Staff At FEMA  

Release Date: May 13, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-052

Washington, D.C.-- Reynold N. Hoover, an aviation counter-terrorism and security expert, has been appointed chief of staff for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Director Joe M. Allbaugh announced today.

Before joining FEMA, Hoover was a commercial litigation attorney in Florida, where he also provided legal instruction to federal, state and local law enforcement and served as a consultant to the Air Line Pilots Association's National Security Committee. Hoover, a licensed pilot, has served in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard for nearly 20 years, most recently as lieutenant colonel for the 111th Ordnance Group. He was awarded the Bronze Star for distinguished service during Operation Desert Storm.

Hoover began his career as a special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. His responsibilities included developing explosive countermeasures and counter-terrorism training programs for the aviation community.

"Reynold brings excellent management experience to FEMA, as well as valuable knowledge of counter-terrorism strategy," said Allbaugh. "His leadership will be an important asset as FEMA implements President Bush's agenda for a better-prepared nation."

As chief of staff, Hoover will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the agency and for executing the priorities and policies of Director Joe M. Allbaugh. FEMA programs encompass disaster response and recovery, hazard mitigation, training, preparedness exercises, insurance and fire prevention. The agency is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has 10 regional offices. Its resources include a permanent staff of 2,600, a temporary staff of 4,000 and an annual budget of approximately $6.4 billion.

Hoover earned a bachelor of science degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point and a master's degree from Birmingham-Southern College. He also holds a law degree from The Catholic University of America's Columbus School of Law. Before accepting his appointment he and his wife, Lucy, resided in Jacksonville, Florida.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 20-Aug-2003 17:18:35