Eagle Eyes: Helping fight terrorism Published Sept. 15, 2008 LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- One of the best tools in fighting terrorism isn't a technologically advanced super-computer or robot. People can make a significant impact in detecting terrorist activities. The Eagle Eyes Program, run by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, is the Air Force version of a "terrorist" neighborhood watch program and relies on help from the community to succeed. Law enforcement can't be everywhere and they need the local community to be their eyes and ears to help detect the signs of terrorism. Eagle Eyes was initiated after Sept. 11, 2001, when studies showed that observable planning activities usually paved the way for possible terrorist attacks. Local communities and law enforcement agencies have offered positive feedback about the program since it was developed. The Eagle Eyes Program helps support Air Force bases and the communities that surround them. The nationwide responsibility for countering terrorism is entrusted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, but the AFOSI has a justifiable duty to thwart terror attacks on or near bases and Air Force assets since that's where military personnel and resources are located. To participate in the program, Air Force members, civilians or family members don't have to change their daily routine. Rather, AFOSI asks people to pay attention to their surroundings and report anything that possibly fits into the categories of suspicious behavior Eagle Eyes outlines below. People who observe these behaviors should call local law enforcement at 911, the 56th Security Forces Squadron law enforcement desk at (623) 856-5970 or AFOSI at (623) 856-6821. Possible indicators to look for: Surveillance: Someone recording or monitoring activities to include the use of cameras, note taking, drawing diagrams, annotating on maps or using binoculars. Elicitation: People or organizations attempting to gain information about military operations, capabilities or people. Elicitation attempts may be made by mail, fax, telephone or in person. Tests of security: Attempts to measure reaction times to security breaches or to penetrate physical security barriers or procedures to assess strengths and weaknesses. Acquiring supplies: Purchasing or stealing explosives, weapons, ammunition, etc. This also includes acquiring military uniforms, decals, flight manuals, passes, badges or the equipment to manufacture such items or any other controlled items. Out-of-place or suspicious persons: People who don't seem to belong in the workplace, neighborhood, business establishment, or anywhere else. Dry run: Putting people into position and moving them around according to their plan without actually committing the terrorist act. This is especially true when planning a kidnapping, but it can also pertain to bombings. An element of this activity could also include mapping routes and determining traffic timing, lights and flow. Deploying assets: People and supplies getting into position to commit the act. This is a person's last chance to alert authorities before the terrorist act occurs. Courtesy the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs