Janet Napolitano Thanks TSA

At Fox News, "Under Fire, TSA Gets 'Thank You' From DHS":

With transportation security officers increasingly under fire from some quarters, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano on Tuesday sent an email to all Transportation Security Administration employees, saying she wanted to "take a moment to personally thank you for the work you are doing to keep the traveling public safe."

"The threats we face in the aviation sector are real and evolving, and we are meeting them with a strong and dynamic response," she said. "Serving on the front lines, you ensure safe and efficient travel for the millions of people who rely on our aviation system every day" ...

"Travelers and the public realize that your job is difficult and demanding," she said. "This holiday season, I am confident you will again demonstrate your commitment to ensuring the safety of the traveling public to everyone who passes through an airport security checkpoint."

She said that as the threats against the United States "continue to evolve, the nation continues to count on you as their last line of defense against terrorism and rely upon you to execute your mission efficiently, professionally and courteously."

Meanwhile, at Michelle's, "The no-grope list: Look who gets a junk-touching exemption," and at ABC News, "Airport Pat-Downs: TSA Says it Can Fine You for Backing Out" (via Memeorandum)

BONUS: At London's Daily Mail, "'We hate obese passengers and people with personal hygiene issues:' Now 'abused' TSA staff vent their anger at patdown searches."