UNION — Outgoing federal Homeland Security head Michael Chertoff is praising President George W. Bush for protecting the U.S. in the years since the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

Chertoff, a New Jersey native who grew up in Elizabeth, spoke at Kean University today.

He says the federal response to natural disasters has improved greatly since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. He also says it is vital that FEMA remain part of the Homeland Security Department.

Chertoff was named Homeland Security chief in 2005, after FEMA's bungled response to Katrina. He says the department has improved cooperation between government agencies but needs to continue that effort.

Chertoff will leave his post when President-elect Barack Obama takes office in January. He says he has no definite plans after he steps down, but will consider writing or teaching.