Abstract
This article examines the evolution of the U.S. Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) since its origins in the 1960s through its dramatic restructuring in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. FAMS experienced rapid expansion, recruiting personnel from diverse backgrounds and organizations to secure the skyways. The accelerated growth resulted in an organizational structure lacking shared culture uniformity that hindered long-term effectiveness. This article examines bureaucratic and flat paradigms and their relevance to FAMS through the lenses of organizational theory.
Author
Lowell Dimoff
Lowell Dimoff, DPS, is an Assistant Professor of Homeland Security at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Lowell accumulated over 38 years of military, local, and federal law enforcement experience. After holding several executive-level positions, he retired from DHS’ Federal Air Marshal Service with over 20 years of service. He earned a doctorate in Homeland Security Studies from St. John’s University and an M.A. in National Security Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. His research interests include leadership and organizational theory related to the homeland security enterprise, emerging threats, and global terrorism.
