Will Assume A Position In Academia Early Next Year

John S. Pistole, the Transportation Security Administration’s longest serving administrator, today announced his retirement from public service, effective Dec. 31, 2014, following more than 31 years in the federal government, including four and a half years at TSA and 26 years at the FBI.

In the coming weeks, Administrator Pistole (pictured) is expected to be named to a position in academia beginning in early 2015.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to have served as TSA Administrator. No words can convey my deep gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the thousands of men and women committed to protecting the American public,” said Pistole. “I could not be more proud of all that our employees have accomplished together, particularly what they have done to help enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of transportation security while improving the passenger screening experience.”

John S. Pistole was nominated for the TSA Administrator position by President Barack Obama in May 2010. He received unanimous confirmation by the United States Senate, assuming his new role in June 2010. Pistole joined the FBI in 1983 after practicing law for two years.

"I thank John S. Pistole for his four and a half years’ service as Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and 31 years of service to the nation," Department of Homeland Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson (pictured) said in a statement posted on the DHS website.

"Since assuming his role as Administrator in June 2010, John Pistole has led the TSA workforce of over 60,000 and has overseen the security operations of more than 450 airports throughout the United States. Under John’s leadership, TSA launched its “Trusted Traveler” program, TSA Pre-Check, which over five million passengers per week now use at 120 U.S. airports. John brought to TSA extensive experience in national security, counterterrorism and fighting organized crime.

"John Pistole has been integral in leading TSA’s transformation to a risk-based, intelligence-driven counterterrorism agency dedicated to protecting our transportation systems. Because of his efforts over the past four and a half years, our country’s transportation systems are more safe and secure. I am grateful for John’s contributions to DHS, TSA and our country. I congratulate John on his career as a selfless public servant and wish him and his family the very best as he leaves TSA. I also thank John for his friendship, counsel, and devotion to duty."

FMI: www.tsa.gov