Nashville, Tennessee --- Department of Safety Interim Commissioner Gerald Nicely has selected veteran THP Lieutenant Tracy Trott as the new Major of the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Trott will be the third highest-ranking member of the 855-person force.

"One of Governor Bredesen's charges upon naming me Interim Commissioner of Safety," said Nicely, "was to assemble a new top management team for the THP. With the appointment of Major Trott that charge has been met. Major Trott has served 28 years as a member of the Highway Patrol. His experience includes operations management of Troopers in several counties, as well as the day-to-day activities of law enforcement. I have given careful consideration to this appointment, and I believe his skills and experience will complement those of Colonel Walker and Lieutenant Colonel Strawther."

Colonel Mike Walker said, "I have known Tracy Trott for 29 years. I admire his professionalism and his dedication to duty. Both Lieutenant Colonel Strawther and I look forward to working with him at Headquarters."

Trott, 49, will relocate to Nashville from the THP's Fall Branch District in the Tri-Cities area, where he was Commanding Lieutenant over troops in five counties. He earned a bachelors degree in Criminal Justice and a masters degree in Criminology. He is married and has two children.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.