Secretary Napolitano applauds President Obama's intent to nominate John S. Pistole as TSA Assistant

"John's national security and counterterrorism expertise will be a great asset to the Department in our efforts to enhance the security of our vital transportation systems," said Secretary Napolitano. "Strong and effective transportation security requires proactive measures and a strong understanding of the evolving threat picture. John's significant experience and expertise in this field-which I have seen firsthand over the last 16 months-will serve both TSA and the traveling public well."

Pistole currently serves as Deputy Director of the FBI, a position he has held since October 2004. As TSA Assistant Secretary, Pistole will oversee the Department's ongoing efforts to secure the nation's aviation networks, railroads, ports and mass transit systems, security operations for 450 federalized airports throughout the nation, and the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS).