DHS Announces New Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council

 News Release

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Office of Public Affairs

DHS Announces New Appointments to the Homeland Security Advisory Council WASHINGTON – United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin appointed three new members to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC), bringing additional expertise from law enforcement, the private sector, and public service to support the Department’s homeland security mission. “It’s my honor to announce the appointments of Major Mark Blair, Lindsey de la Torre, and Louis Gregory as the newest members of the Homeland Security Advisory Council,” said Secretary Mullin. “They bring with them years of experience in law enforcement at the federal and local level, as well as the private sector, and will make strong additions to this council. With such a large and strong group of patriots, experts, and public servants working together under the leadership of President Trump, we will continue to secure the homeland and protect the American people from any and all threats.” Formed on March 19, 2002, HSAC leverages the experience, expertise, and national and global connections of its membership to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security with real-time, real-world, and independent advice on homeland security operations. With its refreshed focus, the America First HSAC will rely on the knowledge of homeland security specialists from across government and industry, all dedicated to implementing President Trump’s objectives. Under President Trump and Secretary Mullin, HSAC will work to identify innovative approaches and solutions to address evolving homeland security challenges and enhance the security of the nation. Newly Appointed Members Major Mark Blair, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa, Florida. Major Mark Blair is the Training Division Commander at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, where he oversees the agency’s Training Academy and recurring training programs. Since joining the Sheriff’s Office in 2010, he has served in roles including Patrol Deputy, Detective, and supervisor in the Homeland Security and Forensic divisions, with experience managing large special events, special teams, and disaster response. "I’m humbled and honored by the opportunity to serve my community and country, and I appreciate the faith placed in me by my agency, Secretary Mullin, and President Trump. The mandate of law enforcement is to serve and protect our communities, and I am excited to continue fulfilling that responsibility in this role," said Major Mark Blair. Lindsey de la Torre, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Padron. Lindsey de la Torre is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Padron, where she leads national security initiatives supporting mission-critical government and private-sector partners. She brings more than 20 years of experience across the White House, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the private sector, including work on presidential appointments, legal and policy issues, and programs related to U.S. competitiveness and national security.  “Having spent my career across government, national security, and the private sector, I’m honored to join the Homeland Security Advisory Council and to help support the dedicated men and women who safeguard our homeland every day," said Lindsey de la Torre. Louis “Uncle Louie” Gregory, Entertainment Executive, Entrepreneur, and retired Director, U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Louis “Uncle Louie” Gregory is an entrepreneur and entertainment producer who previously held senior law enforcement leadership positions and was a founding member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. After retiring from public service, he returned to the entertainment industry, where he has produced nationally significant events, mentored artists, and built successful businesses dedicated to honoring and serving America’s first responders. “I am honored and humbled to receive this appointment. Having devoted much of my life to public service, law enforcement, and supporting the brave men and women on America’s Front Line, I accept this responsibility with profound gratitude and a renewed commitment to serving our nation. I look forward to drawing upon my experience in government, business, and the private sector to help advance the Department of Homeland Security’s mission and strengthen the country we all love,” said Louis Gregory. To learn more about the HSAC, including its current membership, previous taskings, reports, and recommendations, visit DHS.gov/Homeland-Security-Advisory-Council.

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