UNITED STATES SECRET SERVICE RECOGNIZES LOS ANGELES AIRPORT POLICE DIGNITARY PROTECTION UNIT OFFICERS

(Los Angeles, California – August 9, 2007) Los Angeles Airport Police Dignitary Protection Unit (DPU) was presented a commendation from the United States Secret Service August 6 at the Los Angeles World Airports Board of Airport Commissioners meeting.

Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Ramon Maytorena commended the unit’s Sergeant Fernando Franco. He also commended Officers Dwayne Myers, Jerome Smith, William Handley and Brian Le for the unit’s continuous diligent efforts, dedication and professionalism while acting as a major support to the secret service in protecting dignitaries traveling through LAX.

James T. Butts Jr., deputy executive director of Law Enforcement and Protection Services said, “The Dignitary Protection Unit ensures seamless protection, safety and security of dignitaries that travel to and from Los Angeles International Airport.”

The Los Angeles Airport Police Division is the fourth largest law enforcement agency in Los Angeles County, with more than 1,100 law enforcement, security and staff personnel. The Airport Police is a division of Los Angeles World Airports, the City department that owns and operates four airports in Southern California: Los Angeles International, LA/Ontario International, LA/Palmdale Regional and Van Nuys (general aviation).