One's A Navy Vet, The Other A Long-Time Cop

The TSA Monday named Thomas G. Russell, a 30-year veteran of the Navy, as the Montana Federal Security Director (FSD) based at Missoula International Airport.

"Thomas will provide excellent leadership at the airports he will oversee in Montana," said Rear Adm. David M. Stone, USN (Ret.), Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for TSA. "His experience and knowledge will be a great asset to TSA."

Russell will be responsible for overseeing screening at airports in Missoula, Glacier, Helena and Great Falls. A retired Navy Captain, he was part of a group of officers who monitored US naval war plans in the Pacific and also conducted naval planning for the first Gulf War.

On November 19, 2001, President Bush signed the Aviation and Transportation Security Act which created the TSA and established the authority of federal security director. The FSD is the chief federal security officer at the airport. He works with the airport, local law enforcement, airlines and other stakeholders to ensure the highest level of security is maintained. The FSD is also the face of TSA in the region and the first point of contact when a security issue arises.

Meanwhile, In Spokane, Washington...

The TSA Monday also named Dereck Starks as the Federal Security Director (FSD) for Spokane International Airport. Starks has served as the Deputy Assistant Federal Security Director for Screening at O’Hare International Airport since May of 2004.

"Dereck’s background and experience make him an ideal person for this position," said Stone. "He will provide strong leadership as he heads up aviation security for Spokane International Airport."

As Deputy Assistant FSD for Screening at O’Hare, Starks managed a staff of approximately 1,600 managers, supervisors, and screeners. Prior to joining TSA, where he also served as a Screening Manager, he was a sergeant in the Chicago Police Department, responsible for the Intelligence and Confidential Investigation sections.

FMI: www.tsa.gov