A long-time East Tennessee firefighter is the newest member of Tennessee's Homeland Security Council.
Gov. Bill Haslam appointed Greeneville Fire Chief Mark Foulks to serve on the council.
The Homeland Security Council was created by Executive Order 8. The council works with the Office of Homeland Security to plan and direct homeland security activities in the state and communicate with federal and local officials to promote homeland security.
Foulks has served as fire chief in Greeneville since September 2006. Since his appointment, Foulks has restored the multi-agency hazardous materials team in Greene County to operational standards.
Foulks is a member of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Explosives (CBRNE) commitee for District 1 Homeland Security and he is a district coordinator for the Tennessee Fire Service Mutual Aid System.
His 22-year fire service career began with the Knoxville Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of assistant chief. During that time, Foulks led KFD's effort to gain accreditation as a Level II hazardous materials team with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency.
He also served as division chief for KFD's Special Operations Division, which includes Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Hazardous Materials Response and Technical Rescue.
Foulks was deployed twice to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina through the International Association of Fire Chiefs. He also helped lead efforts in Knoxville to house more than 300 evacuees.
In 2008, former Gov. Phil Bredesen commended Foulks for his service, expertise and participation in the state's Homeland Security District 1.
Gov. Haslam praised Foulks history of commitment to public safety and service and the knowledge he brings to the council.
"I want to commend Chief Foulks for his willingness to serve the state on this important council," Haslam said.
"Public safety is one of the highest priorities of state government. Chief Foulks brings a wealth of experience and will be a valuable addition to the Homeland Security Council."
The Council is made up of 23 members who represent state and municipal officials, law enforcement and other stakeholders. Six of the local government representative seats are governor appointed. The Council was formed in 2003.
For more information on the Homeland Security Council and its function in the state, visit the Tennessee Department of Safety's website.