The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced three new members of the Homeland Security Advisory Council, which works to identify innovative approaches and solutions to address evolving homeland security challenges.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the appointments of Major Mark Blair, Lindsey de la Torre, and Louis Gregory would bring more expertise from law enforcement, the private sector and public service to support the department’s security mission.
“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,” Mullin said. “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.”
Major Mark Blair, training division commander at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Tampa, Fla., currently oversees the agency’s training academy and training programs. Since joining the office in 2010, he has served in roles from patrol deputy to detective to supervisor in the Homeland Security and Forensic divisions, and has experience managing large 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,” Blair said.
Lindsey de la Torre, is the founder and CEO of Padron, where she leads national security initiatives supporting government and private-sector partners. With more than 20 years of experience across the White House, the U.S. Department of Justice and the private sector, her work on presidential appointments, legal and policy issues and programs will support 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,” de la Torre said.
And Louis Gregory, is an entertainment executive and entrepreneur, as well as a retired director for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Gregory was a founding member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and turned to the entertainment industry after retiring from public service.
“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,” Gregory said.