Tom Burrell began his career in maritime enforcement in 1992 when he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard, following his service in the USMC Reserves during Desert Storm. He would see service in Key West, (Fla.) Norfolk, Va., and New York City, both afloat and ashore with duties, which ranged from drug and alien interdiction to recreational boating safety. During this time he would serve in a variety of positions including boarding team member, boarding officer, boat crew, coxswain and master helmsman. Achievements include Coxswain “C” School Honor Graduate, numerous humanitarian service awards and involvement in several high profile joint operations — including the security for JFK International Airport during the 50th anniversary celebrations of the United Nations.
In 1997 he left the USCG to pursue a position with the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission as a Waterways Conservation Officer, a position that would include postings in Northcentral & Southeast Regions. In 2002 he was promoted to sergeant, in 2012 he was promoted to captain in the Special Investigation Section, and in 2015 was selected for LtCol and Assistant Bureau Director. As LtCol he was in charge of agency training, the agency academy, cadet selection and the Northern tier operations. He retired in 2023 and spends his time hunting, fishing and keeping up with the latest law enforcement developments.
