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Shaw defenders to participate in anti-terrorism week

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Ashley Maldonado
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 20th Fighter Wing is scheduled to hold an anti-terrorism week at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, Nov. 6 - 10.

Capt. Joe Williams, 20th Security Forces Squadron commander, said anti-terrorism week is an opportunity to focus the efforts of multiple agencies to heighten awareness and promote continued vigilance in an effort to protect Team Shaw members.

“This year we are taking an approach that involves simulated intelligence, derived from local law enforcement agencies and national force protection intelligence updates,” said Williams. “This intelligence will drive actions from some key players such as the (20th) SFS, Air Force Office of Special Investigations, (20th) Civil Engineering Squadron and command post. One such action is force protection condition changes.”

The exercise will initiate a 20th SFS response and involve other first responders.

“We are going to exercise (FPCON) Charlie measures, so we could possibly see delays at the gate or barriers up around the base,” said Dustin Campbell, 20th FW Inspector General’s Office self-assessment program manager. “There could be single point entries around some facilities. We could restrict some of the parking at certain facilities, like the wing headquarters building. Plan for delays. Be alert for suspicious activity.”

Team Shaw members can ensure their safety and the safety of their wingmen by educating themselves on anti-terrorism.

“Anti-terrorism is the defensive measures used to reduce the vulnerability of individuals, information and facilities to terrorist acts,” said Williams. “It is important to remember that terrorist acts can target Department of Defense personnel both on and off base. There is a wide range of actions that help mitigate risk associated with terrorism. With the holiday season rapidly approaching, I think the most relevant tips that need to be addressed are those concerning travel.”

Some effective ways to stay safe from terrorism are:
– Avoid using military-style bags.
– Remove all military logos, patches and stickers from any luggage.
– Travel in conservative civilian clothing.
– Do not wear distinct military items such as organizational shirts or caps.
– Refrain from using a military common access card when required to show identification.
– If traveling outside the U.S., know or have the address and phone numbers of U.S. military facilities, U.S. Consulates and U.S. Embassies in the area.
– Always maintain situational awareness and do not become the target.
– Report suspicious behavior.

For any questions or concerns, individuals can contact their unit anti-terrorism representative, AFOSI or Alan Bryan, the installation's anti-terrorism program manager.