It is with great sorrow that I announce the passing of Thomas "Tom" Shepardson, DMORT National Commander. Early morning on Tuesday, February 18th, our friend and dear colleague, Tom, suffered a massive heart attack at his home in Fayetteville, New York. Tom Shepardson was a man of strong conviction and dedication. In response to the Homeland Security alert of Code Orange, Tom agreed to serve at the DHHS Office of Emergency Response in Maryland, assisting with the agency's Shuttle DMORT mission. It was just last Saturday that Tom ended his service at OER. He was preparing to attend the funeral services for his good friend and colleague, Fred Barry. Tom was saddened by Fred's passing and shared with us his appreciation for life and all the good things God has blessed him with. And now, we all once again must grieve and lay to rest a man that has touched all our lives. However, we will never forget the service and friendship and dedication Tom has shown us all. I ask all of you to show a moment of silence for Tom and his family, keeping them in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time.

Kevin Yeskey, Director Office of Emergency Response