JMTX Executive Director recognized by Coast Guard

Captain Tom Allan, Commander of the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Jacksonville, FL, recently awarded Jacksonville Maritime Transportation Exchange (JMTX) Executive Director James McLaughlin with a Public Service Commendation for his leadership and service to the maritime community in Northeast Florida.Excerpts from the commendation:

Mr. McLaughlin's leadership, financial acumen and management expertise associated with the complex Port Security Grant Program ensured that the nationally competitive and limited funding opportunities available to these ports were strategically targeted, meticulously tracked and dedicated to reducing the highest security risks to Northeast Florida ports and the public.Since 2007, a total of $18.8 million in grant funds were directly targeted to high-risk reduction projects. Along with matching funds from industry, the full total reached nearly $22.5 million and continues to grow.As the port expanded so has Mr. McLaughlin's ability to identify and garner additional funding opportunities to further enhance the security and resilience in Northeast Florida ports.Mr. McLaughlin's long-lasting contributions to Northeast Florida's maritime community and our Nation's security are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.