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Director of the Federal Air Marshal Service, Dana Brown, Today Announced His Plans to Retire at Year-End

News & Happenings

May 9, 2008

Photo of Dana Brown, Director of the Federal Air Marshals, and his awards

Dana Brown will be retiring at the end of the year after a truly historic two-and-a-half years leading TSA's Office of Law Enforcement / Federal Air Marshal Service. During that time, the Federal Air Marshal Service has become recognized as one of the nation's top counter-terrorism forces. Under Dana's leadership, the FAMS has earned respect and appreciation from across America and around the world - from the President, Secretary Chertoff, partners at the FBI, the intelligence community, in Police Departments from coast to coast, elite units in other countries, and, most importantly, the traveling public.

The FAMS came through during the disruption of the UK liquids plot in August, 2006, the many VIPR teams, and in countless other critical missions whenever, wherever they are needed. They are today engaged in similar sensitive activities to protect Americans in the current heightened threat environment. Under Dana's leadership, the FAMS is the go-to option, not just at TSA, but for DHS as well.

Important as those accomplishments are, Dana's most important contribution -- and his true passion -- relates to his deep personal commitment to the men and women flying missions as Federal Air Marshals. When I first talked to Dana about leading OLE/FAMS, he had a written plan for how he would engage with the front lines, engage, listen, and follow-through. Dana set up a process that continues today to provide the policies and support that attract and retain our top talent. Dana's Thursday dinners with flying FAMs underscores his commitment to really listen to their concerns. Dana's extraordinary connection to those on the front lines will be his legacy.

I am proud to have worked with Dana and I think just about everybody who has known him feels the same way. Dana's integrity, strength, humility, determination, and calm confidence are as inspiring to others as they are unremarkable to him. He is one of a kind and he is irreplaceable.

Typical Dana, he is thinking about OLE/FAMS first and himself second. He wanted to get this announcement out now so that a selection can be made and an effective transition accomplished before he leaves. We will begin a process for that soon, but for now, please join me in extending heartfelt appreciation to a man who represents the best about duty, honor, and country, Dana Brown.

Kip Hawley
TSA Administrator