Tom Barrett leaves the Department of Transportation with my deepest gratitude for all the fine work he has done here. I was delighted that he agreed to remain in office during the transition between administrations, and his knowledge and wisdom have proved indispensable in helping us get a quick start on economic recovery and other urgent priorities.

In his earlier role as the first administrator of DOT's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Tom undertook the hard work of organizing a new federal agency with a critical safety mission.

Tom's work at the Department, following a 35-year Coast Guard career in which he attained the position of Vice Commandant, adds up to a distinguished career of service to the public - one filled with accomplishments of which he can be proud.

I wish Tom all the best as he becomes Deputy Federal Coordinator at the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects. He will be missed.