Air University Review, January-February 1985
A Response
CAPTAIN Michael T. McEwen's article addressed a very serious security problem, namely, the proliferation of unexpected and unprovoked terrorist attacks on U.S. Air Force facilities, equipment, and personnel. * Although Captain McEwen's suggestion for a response plan was timely and worthy of close consideration, there are at least two other more practical steps the U.S. Air Force could take to reduce the possibility of terrorist attacks.
*Captain Michael T. McEwen, USA, Is Your Base Ready to Counteract Terrorism?" Air University Review, September-October 1984, pp. 80-87.
Huge signs identify the overwhelming majority of buildings on most USAF bases. While admittedly useful to personnel trying to find a particular office, such signs are an open invitation to terrorists. Even more serious is the traditional military practice of using door plaques to identify, by rank and name, individuals living in base housing. This custom not only provides potential terrorists with a valuable guide to the whereabouts of USAF personnel but also needlessly endangers family members.
To make Air Force bases safer and less of a target for terrorists, all identification signs should be removed. Such a nonidentification policy would be a clear deterrent to terrorists and would help to resolve some of the problems Captain McEwen discussed.
Scott AFB, Illinois
Contributor
Dr. Ofcansky is a historian at Hq Air Force Communications Command.
Disclaimer
The conclusions and opinions expressed in this document are those of the author cultivated in the freedom of expression, academic environment of Air University. They do not reflect the official position of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, the United States Air Force or the Air University.
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