Loy to Leave DHS

(The following is a statement by the Secretary of Homeland Security) “For more than 40 years, Admiral James Loy has dedicated himself to the protection of our country and its citizens. Following his retirement as Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard in May 2002, Jim answered the call to service once again by standing up the Transportation Security Administration.

He later joined the Department of Homeland Security to oversee the integration of 22 previously disparate agencies into one unified organization solely responsible for protecting our homeland. His vision and commitment to the protection of our country during the department’s early years will have a lasting effect for years to come.

Jim was the first federal official to offer me his support, and that of the U.S. Coast Guard, shortly after the President created the Office of Homeland Security within the White House. His presence, leadership, and counsel have been invaluable to the country and to me during my tenure. He is an extraordinary public servant and a dear and trusted friend. I thank him for his dedication and leadership over the past two years and wish Jim and Kay all the best.”

Admiral Loy plans to serve as Deputy Secretary at the Department of Homeland Security until March 1, 2005 or until a successor is confirmed in order to assist the Department and its new leadership during this transition period.