Eagle Eyes

by Senior Airman Elizabeth Van Patten
94th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

10/17/2012 - DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- The 94th Security Forces Squadron watches over the base day and night, day in and day out. Airmen have a sense of security while at work, knowing that the SFS Airmen man the gates and patrol the streets and buildings of Dobbins Air Reserve Base.

However, security doesn't stop with security forces. They can't be everywhere. They need help from the rest of the base.

Are you up to the task?

"Overcoming complacency is our greatest challenge," said Neil Bethune, 94th Airlift Wing antiterrorism officer. "Of all the things we are vulnerable to; our greatest threat is the mindset of apathy and complacency. We have a military mission at Dobbins and that makes us all a target."

Terrorists think globally but act locally. They use the element of surprise to attack for the purpose of advancing their political, religious or ideological goals.

Historically, terrorists follow a general planning cycle. They begin by formulating a list of possible targets and gather information on these possible targets, primarily through surveillance and intercepted intelligence. Based on information they have gathered, terrorists will select a final target, taking into account target availability, impact and value.

The planning phase will also includes surveillance over extended periods of time. Multiple dry runs are practiced until the final attack plan is fine-tuned. Then, the attack will take place. Should the attack succeed, terrorist will exploit media coverage to publicize their cause.

"While we have no indicators of an imminent threat, surveillance is still a reality," said Bethune. "There are enemies to freedom who will seek to do us harm."

Should someone enter your work area that you don't know, they should be greeted and offered an appropriate amount of customer service. If there is still a concern, everyone is encouraged to notify Security Forces promptly.

"If you see something, say something," said Bethune. "Profiling individuals is wrong. However, profiling behaviors may indicate suspicious behavior. You have to decide if someone is a potential threat. Ask yourself if this person supposed to be in your work area, or why are they wearing a trench coat in 95 degree weather or why is that vehicle parked next to the fence line? Sometimes suspicious people just 'don't belong' or a behavior seems out of place."

On the other hand, an insider threat is usually a disgruntled employee of the Air Force. They pose a significant risk because they already have access to the base, and may have access to classified materials.

The signs that a military or civilian member may be a potential threat include: working odd hour without authorization, taking large amounts of information home, copying materials unnecessarily, traveling to foreign countries often and for only short periods of time, buying things they can't afford, are overwhelmed by life or career disappointments and they may act on concerns that they are being investigated.

For a more information on what the possible actions and behaviors of someone who may become an active shooter or inside threat is, click here.

The best prevention, or detection, from an insider threat is to be a good wingman. The wingman concept is simple - get to know those around you, watch them and provide support. Wingmen foster every one of us to collaborate and be held accountable for our actions.

Additionally, maintaining military bearing will help you maintain situational awareness. When in doubt, fall back on training - such as the use of duress words - whether basic military training, officer training school or advanced training.

All state side military bases are under Force Protection Condition Alpha with Bravo measures in place, and no military installation has been at FPCON Normal since before Sept. 11, 2001.

"Talk," said Bethune. "Communicate. Do not be complacent. Be aware. If it turns out to be nothing, then great. If it turns out to be something, then we've averted an attack."

The Air Force as a whole is constantly put to the test. Success or failure is measured easily, just by watching the news.

For more information on antiterrorism please contact Neil Bethune by email at neil.bethune@us.af.mil. If you see suspicious activity, please call Security Forces at 678-655-4908 or 4909.