Most of our readers know Admiral Thad Allen as the National Incident Commander for the Deepwater BP Oil Spill. In this role, he manages the federal oversight and response to the oil spill, advises the President and Secretary Napolitano, and makes sure that BP is doing its job to stop the leak, clean up the spill, and compensate individuals, businesses, and governments for losses related to this disaster. His last job was equally as impressive – Allen served as Commandant of the United States Coast Guard for the past four years. In dealing with Hurricane Katrina and other disasters, Allen has proven that he can handle a big challenge, no matter what his title is.
On May 25, 2010, Secretary Napolitano spoke at the official Change of Command ceremony where she thanked Allen for his service and welcomed the new Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Robert Papp. While new to the position, Admiral Papp is no stranger to the men and women of the United States Coast Guard – he celebrates his 35th year of service this year. Prior to his new position, Admiral Papp served as Commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Region, Chief of Staff of the Coast Guard and Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Headquarters. In addition to his years of valuable experience in the Coast Guard, Papp holds the honor of Gold Ancient Mariner, a position given to an officer who has held the qualification as a Cutterman longer than any other. Both Allen and Papp spoke at the Change of Command ceremony as the guests celebrated the contributions of these men and the rest of the Coast Guard. The video is featured below – take a look and learn a bit more about the leaders of this important branch of the United States military.