Oahu Civil Defense
losing its top official

The acting administrator for the Oahu Civil Defense Agency is leaving Friday for a job with the U.S. Postal Service.

Doug Aton said he could not pass up the opportunity to be the postal service's emergency preparedness manager, a new position created by the federal government.

Peter Hirai, the Civil Defense Agency's plans and operations officer, will serve as interim administrator until a replacement for Aton is found.

The 60-year-old former assistant police chief has served as acting administrator for the past 2 1/2 years.

"Doug Aton is someone who we could always rely on to help us coordinate the assets and resources of the City and County of Honolulu," said Ed Texeira, vice director of State Civil Defense. "He's been really a true partner."

Texeira praised Aton for advocating many homeland security programs and initiatives.

Aton said he will help address homeland security and emergency preparedness issues facing the postal service.