Sneaking Suspicions

  • Published
  • By Deborah Marie Gibson
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  While the mental vision of Sept. 11, 2001, has faded from the minds of most Americans, Luke's Air Force Offiice of Special Investigations, Detachment 421, reminds us the enemy is still lurking and every military base is a valuable target. As a means to educate people how they can fight the war on terrorism, Detachment 421 continues to emphasize the Eagle Eyes program.

"Eagle Eyes is an anti-terrorism initiative that enlists the eyes and ears of Airmen, civilians and family members to help combat the war on terror," said Special Agent Edwin Donat, Det. 421. "We shouldn't depend solely on law enforcement offcers; they cannot be everywhere. We need to be alert, especially, on or near the base because terrorists consider those areas valuable targets."

The program asks everyone to remain alert to suspicious behaviors that may indicate preparation for terrorist acts. People do not have to wear a military uniform to defend the United States. The first step is knowing what to look for.

Suspicious behaviors include someone recording or observing activities; attempting to gain information about the military or security operations; trying to clear security barriers; acquiring supplies such as explosives, large amounts of fertilizer or military uniforms; people who seemingly do not belong in a particular location; potential acts of terror being practiced and supplies and people deploying into position to commit the act.

Detachment 421 reminds Airmen the program works because terrorist acts are preceded by observable activities; they are always planned and practiced. When a person is on base or out in the community, they should always report suspicious behaviors to the 56th Security Forces Squadron (law enforcement desk) at (623)856-5970.

"The success of the Eagle Eyes program hinges upon the active participation of those associated with Luke, both Airmen and civilian," said Special Agent Jason Rafferty, Det. 421 commander. "If you see something suspicious, something that doesn't belong, report it. To date, the program has been extremely effective in educating people about what to look for and whom to report it to. The events of Sept. 11 rocked is country; the Eagle Eyes program is just one of the many tools used to ensure that those tragic events are not repeated."