Featured Article -- June 2007

Whose responsibility is it?

A few years ago, most Americans gave little or no thought to terrorism. That was something that happened in third-world countries far away from the United States. But September 11, 2001, changed this perspective for all of us. 

Now the question becomes: Whose responsibility is it to ensure our safety and welfare in the ongoing fight against terrorism? Who bears the burden of protecting our homes, our businesses, our families, our neighborhoods? 

Traditionally, various law enforcement agencies have been tasked with these responsibilities, but can they be held solely responsible in today's society?  In a country of over 300 million people, law enforcement simply doesn’t have enough eyes or the resources to do it all.

So t he answer to the question is: It’s the responsibility of all of us.  Each and every American has the duty and responsibility to help protect our country, our way of life and our form of government. 

The recent incident involving terrorist acts planned by six individuals at Fort Dix illustrates this point. This heinous plot didn’t come to light because of any secret, covert operation by local, state or federal law enforcement agencies. 

This plot was foiled because of the suspicions of one lone, but alert, civilian clerk in a video store, who saw something that disturbed him and made him suspicious -- and then reported it. 

All of us, whether we're part of law enforcement or not, can make a difference. You're not expected to place yourself in the line of fire -- just to be willing to report those things that you deem suspicious or out of the ordinary.

Remember -- if you see something, say something. It's your responsibility.

 

The threat level in the airline sector is HIGH or Orange. See www.dhs.gov for details.

An online Suspicious Activity Report Form (SAR) will be available soon.