WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is thanking the outgoing director of the National Counterterrorism Center as he wraps up a 24-year career in the federal service.

Obama says most Americans may not know Matt Olsen’s name, but he says they are safer because of his dedicated service.

Obama says the former federal prosecutor and his team have been critical to administration efforts to disrupt terrorist cells, thwart attacks and protect the public from evolving threats at home and abroad. The agency has primary responsibility for analyzing terrorism intelligence. It also plans activities to counter terrorism.

Olsen directed the center for nearly three years.

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