The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

Opinion

November 15, 2009

Air Force bases have to be vigilant in their security

The tragic shootings at Fort Hood, Texas, no doubt will cause the military to look at security at bases.

That’s the natural thing to do after such an event. Something happens, then there is a reaction. In this case the reaction will be a second look at security measures.

We saw it happen at Vance Air Force Base after the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Security at Vance tightened dramatically after 9/11. A look at Vance now, comparing the base to what it was like before 9/11 shows how big the changes were. The gates have been moved out, providing much more space now to intercept someone who breaches security before they get to any of the main buildings on base. Enid drivers had to change their driving patterns because they no longer could take Cleveland south to Fox Drive to connect with U.S. 81 because the base’s main gate was moved to Southgate.

We all understood the changes and realized the moves were justified. Base security was a priority. The same thing will happen to the people around Fort Hood. We are certain security changes will come there, and people will understand and support the measures taken.

Every time something like this happens, those responsible for security have to think of new ways to ensure safety. The trick is being vigilant without being paranoid.

Text Only
Opinion
Featured Ads
AP Video
Obama Scraps Birth Control Mandate US Airmen's Killer Sentenced to Life in Germany Navy Names Ship for Gabrielle Giffords Raw Video: Deadly Blasts in Syria Romney Slams President Obama at CPAC Gingrich: Pres. Obama 'waging War on Religion' 5 Killed in Wrong-way Crash on I-10 in La. Uzbek Man Pleads Guilty in Plot to Kill Obama Denver's Largest-Ever Drug Bust Nets Dozens Marines: No Punishment for Nazi-like Flag Vets Look to Translate Military Skills Into Jobs Raw Video: School Bus Burst Into Flames LA School Reopens Amid Sex Abuse Scandal $25B Settlement Reached Over Foreclosure Abuses Pentagon: Allow Women Closer to Front Lines LA School in Sex Abuse Scandal Reopens Raw Video: Italy's Mount Etna Bursts Into Life Greeks March; Angry Despite Debt Deal Air Force Airlines: Leaders Get Polished Service Ga Girl Fights Off Kidnapper at Walmart
NDN Video
Sandusky on having to stay inside and people turning on him Wookie Sensation Uzbek Man Pleads Guilty in Plot to Kill Obama Woolly Mammoth Caught on Camera? Sandusky makes a statement Did JLo 'Assault' Marc Anthony on Camera? Christie Brinkley's Runway Slip Toddler forced to run half-naked in snow Halle Wants to Leave the Country Northern Lights shine above earth Plane makes perfect belly landing Kris Jenner New Face of Arousal Oils Raw Video: School Bus Burst Into Flames Trending: Zip it! What's in Steve Jobs' FBI file? SJP Talks About Replacing Demi Moore in 'Lovelace' Over 200 dead dolphins wash ashore Lady Gaga's Battle With Bulimia Evacuation at Sea Osama Bin Laden Zombie Movie: "Osombie" Teaser Released
Seasonal Content
House Ads