Today marks the 50th anniversary of the Federal Protective Service (FPS). Founded in 1971, FPS is the law enforcement agency within DHS that protects public servants, and the people they serve, throughout our Nation.
FPS’s mission is vital to the protection of our Homeland. While FPS may be known for providing integrated security at the facilities that serve as visible icons of the Federal Government, their mission is about people. FPS responds to and investigates hundreds of crimes committed or threats made against government employees and property every year. They ensure our fellow Americans can exercise their First Amendment rights outside our facilities, while also ensuring the doors of those facilities remain open to conduct the vital business of government.
As a result of FPS’s service and sacrifice, 1.5 million federal employees—240,000 which are DHS personnel—and citizens and visitors, can go to work and conduct their business at these facilities safely each day. I am especially appreciative of the long hours and extraordinary efforts by FPS employees this past year to keep our Nation safe during continued increased civil unrest and threats to federal officials and properties.
Thank you to all FPS employees, past and present, for half a century of devotion to duty that has safeguarded our Homeland and values. I also want to thank Director L. Eric Patterson for leading the Federal Protective Service, which never wavers in its steadfast devotion to the Homeland, especially during particularly challenging times. I am humbled to lead a Department that includes the devoted professionals of FPS.
Please join me in congratulating FPS on this milestone and their service to our nation. To the men and women of FPS – Happy 50th anniversary!
Sincerely,
Chad F. Wolf
Acting Secretary of Homeland Security
With honor and integrity, we will safeguard the American people, our homeland, and our values