Bill Hitchens , a Republican, represents District 161 in the Georgia House of Representatives, serving since 2013. Born on April 26, 1947, he is a former police officer, Vietnam veteran, and ex-Director of Georgia's Office of Homeland Security with over 47 years in military and state law enforcement. Notable roles include Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety and Executive Director of the G-8 Public Safety Command for the 2004 Sea Island summit, coordinating 11,000 personnel. He currently chairs the Appropriations: Public Safety Subcommittee. Married to Norma since 1968, they reside in Rincon, Georgia, with four children and ten grandchildren.

Education and Political Experience

• Military and Early Career: United States Marine Corps Sergeant ; Georgia State Patrol Trooper to Major ; US Coast Guard and Reserve Commander .
• Law Enforcement Consulting: Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Consultant .
• Homeland Security Leadership: Director, Georgia Office of Homeland Security ; G-8 Public Safety Command Executive Director ; Georgia Department of Public Safety Commissioner .
• Political Service: Elected unopposed to Georgia House District 161 in 2012 and reelected , focusing on public safety issues.