COLUMBUS (November 28, 2001) — Governor Bob Taft today named Colonel Homer A. Smith as Security Coordinator of the State of Ohio Security Task Force. In this capacity, Colonel Smith will report directly to Lt. Governor O’Connor on all state security matters and assist in the implementation of Task Force security recommendations. “Colonel Smith’s extensive military and security experience will be an immeasurable asset to the Task Force as it continues its job of coordinating a statewide security strategy,” said Governor Bob Taft. Lt. Governor Maureen O’Connor, chair of the State of Ohio Security Task Force, commented, “Ohioans should feel confident that the Task Force continues to tap the best people with the best minds to keep Ohio families safe.” Colonel Smith most recently served as director of support for the Ohio Air National Guard. In this role, he coordinated policy, guidance and direction for the support functional areas within the organization. He provided counsel to the Guard on issues and procedures that affected areas of security forces, civil engineers, military functions, services and communications.
The State of Ohio Security Task Force is charged with developing a coordinated, comprehensive state strategy to address security issues. Lt. Governor O’Connor works directly with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Domestic Preparedness and serves as Ohio’s liaison to Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge.