Retiring Adm. James M. Loy has been appointed undersecretary for transportation and security as well as chief operation officer of the recently created Transportation Security Agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Adm. Thomas H. Collins is replacing Loy. Prior to becoming commandant, Collins served as vice commandant from 2000 to 2002. From 1998 to 2000, he served as commander, Pacific Area and the 11th Coast Guard District. He also served as commander of the 14th Coast Guard District in Honolulu.
Collins graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 1968 and began his service as a deck watch officer before on the cutter Vigilant. After that, he served a two-year tour as commanding officer of the cutter Cape Morgan and was based in Charleston, S.C.
Collins is a recipient of numerous Coast Guard medals, including the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal.
