Shipmates
Below is Secretary Chertoff's departure message for all hands. On Tuesday this week the Secretary visited Coast Guard Headquarters (Click here for video: YouTube, CGVI) and we had a chance to say farewell. We are working with Secretary Chertoff and Secretary designate Napolitano to schedule a symbolic ceremony on the transfer of responsibility as the Coast Guard Service Secretary.
Secretary Chertoff and I shared many memorable moments including the 4-8 watch on the HEALY off Point Barrow, working through the surf in a motor lifeboat near Peacock Spit at Cape Disappointment, the BERTHOLF commissioning, and working together following Hurrican Katrina. We wish him well.
We look forward to introducing Governor Napolitano to her Coast Guard and having her visit our units.
The transition continues very smoothly and we look forward to the Inauguration next week.
ADM A
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MEMORANDUM FOR: Department of Homeland Security Employees
FROM: Michael Chertoff
SUBJECT: Leaving the Department
As we enter a new year and as this Administration draws to a close, I want to offer my profound thanks to each and every one of you for your dedicated service to this Department and to our Nation.
Over the past four years, I have been honored to serve alongside you and share the rewards and challenges that we've faced together; carrying out one of the most important functions a government can provide - protecting its citizens.
I will look back fondly on my time as Secretary and recall the many people I've met along the way - standing watch at the border, helping those displaced by disasters, screening passengers and cargo at airports, or patrolling our ports and waterways. And, of course, I'll never forget the people who, like me, answered a call to serve during one of our Nation's most trying times in history.
If you think back to the autumn of 2001 and remember what we all felt - as citizens, mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters - and then acknowledge where we are today, I think you'll agree that we've made dramatic and, in some cases, astounding progress. It is a testament to your efforts and to those working with us that our Nation has not been attacked since this Department was established.
But as you know, our mission is not complete. There are still threats we must contend with every day and vulnerabilities that we must address. As the new Administration transitions into office, I know you will continue to carry out your mission with the same vigor, dedication, and commitment that I've seen these past four years.
I am truly honored to call each of you my colleagues and will leave my post knowing that you are protecting our fellow citizens with the resolute determination to never let another 9/11 happen again.
Thank you. Good luck and God bless.
