MEDIA ADVISORY
Delaware unveils two new vessels to protect
our waterways and critical infrastructure

Delaware State Police Maritime Unit and DNREC Join Homeland Security Fight

WHO:             Governor Jack Markell
Delaware U.S. Senator Chris Coons
Department of Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Lewis D. Schiliro       
DNREC Secretary Collin P. O’Mara
Delaware State Police Colonel Robert M. Coupe
Division of Fish & Wildlife Chief of Enforcement Jim Graybeal

WHAT:          Unveiling of the new Delaware State Police Maritime Unit and two Homeland Security vessels that will patrol our waterways and protect critical infrastructure

WHEN:          10 a.m., Friday, November 4

WHERE:       Fort Delaware State Park
Adjacent to the Fort Delaware State Park Ticket Office and city dock
45 Clinton Street
Delaware City, DE  19706
Directions are attached

WHY:             Gov. Jack A. Markell, Homeland Security Secretary Lewis D. Schiliro and Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Colin O’Mara will unveil two new maritime vessels acquired to enhance homeland security in Delaware.

The acquisition of both vessels came as a result of two separate federal grants. The Department of Safety and Homeland Security was awarded a 2009 Port Security grant to fund and completely stand up the Delaware State Police Marine Unit.  The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control was awarded a 2008 Chemical Buffer Zone Protection Program grant to purchase its 22-foot watercraft. Both agencies are working together to protect critical infrastructure along Delaware waterways.

MEDIA:         Phone-in interviews will be accepted. To schedule a phone-in interview contact Kimberly Chandler (DSHS), 302-632-7060 or Melanie Rapp (DNREC), 302-233-1294 before 10 a.m.

**Great opportunity for photos and video from the dock or Delaware River, if you want to join us for a ride. Board both vessels for an upclose look at equipment and talk with the DSP and DNREC crews assigned to the boats.

Released:  110311 1700