Gov. Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania was sworn in Jan. 24 as the first secretary of the new Department of Homeland Security.

During a ceremony at the White House, President George W. Bush called Ridge “the right man” to lead the first comprehensive and coordinated U.S. effort to secure the nation's borders and citizens against terrorism.

In addition, Bush has nominated the current Deputy Director of FEMA, Mike Brown, to become the new under secretary of emergency preparedness and response in the new department. Confirmation is expected by the Senate for Brown in this new position.

U.S. Fire Administrator David Paulison has been named the new interim COO of FEMA. He will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of FEMA.