Rear Admiral Larry L. Hereth was the Commander of the Fifth Coast Guard District of the United States Coast Guard. He has also acted as director of port security and Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection. He retired in 2007, after 34 years of service. He has received numerous personal awards throughout his career, including the Department of Transportation Secretary's Gold Medal Award, the Legion of Merit, the 9-11 Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal with the Operational Distinguishing Device.