Our anti-terrorism briefing

In the normal process of moving military style, there are always briefings.  They brief us on transportation, household goods, shipments of vehicles, housing, JAG, pay, medical, etc.  The newest in the line up (okay, not real new but rather it pertains to those traveling out of country) is Anti Terrorism. 

When we took our cruise last summer to the Bahamas, we had to take it and at work each year we have to take the online training in order to keep our jobs; however, a refresher is always good.

Today, I was reminded to be ever vigilant of my whereabouts and that of my family and always be on guard.  This doesn't necessarily pertain to us though, but as all of us as Americans.  Even those of you reading this in those areas where you don't think 'will ever happen here'....it can!!

For you, I would recommend changing up your route to work and not because an extremist group is just wanting to bang down YOUR door or pay a visit at your work, but rather there ARE bad people out there in general who just are out to do harm.  Pay attention to who might be in a familiar vehicle that you have seen before.  Now, my day is so predictable that I pull out of the driveway at the same time the bus comes driving by and the same pick up comes down the road as I am turning onto it.  Does this mean they want to harm me?  NO, we just so happen to be going the same way EVERY day! 

But, one time in San Antonio when we lived off post, I took the same route home.  One day, I noticed the same pickup following me.  And this wasn't the average pick up.  There was something that made it stand out which is why I paid attention to it.  He was behind me by one car going down the interstate and for two days he went straight as I pulled into my neighborhood.  So, I decided to switch lanes.  He switched lanes.  I slowed down.  He slowed down.  I sped up.  He sped up.  So, on the third day, I decided to take an exit in which I was familiar with this 'back way' to my house.  He proceeded to follow me and I turned, at which point he turned.  I made a turnaround in the parking lot as did he.  I then stopped at an Arby's drive through and he drove by.  I watched him get back on the street and leave, but it was too coincidental for me.  I kept an eye out and never saw him or the truck again!  Maybe it was just a guy trying to find his way or a man who had ill intentions for a woman on the road alone!!! 

Next, don't make yourself a target for thiefs.  Don't wear your blingy, expensive jewelry out and about when on vacation.  It's tempting for theives to try to take it and imagine how they would take a nice ring off your finger?!!!  Also, keep your purse to the 'store side' of the sidewalk and not the 'street side' as some purse theifs will run by and steal it and get in the getaway car or drive by on a scooter!!  They don't care if you get hurt either, so keeping it over your shoulder don't matter, but the shoulder you strap it on can make a difference.  Men, keep you wallets in your front pocket. 

It's also a good idea to keep your photo ID's and credit cards separated so if you do get robbed, you have one set to still ID yourself and to at least pay for anything you need until you can sort it out or get replacements. 

If you travel overseas or just out of the country, don't put on display you are American.  Now, this is against all the red, white and blue coursing through our veins; however, it makes you a target.  If someone thinks you have money because you wear designer clothing, carry expensive purses or you advertise your services...ie, 'I'm a doctor, nurse, attorney...etc'  you are a high dollar target, but this pertains to anyone.  The goal is you could be kidnapped for the sole purpose of getting money for a ransom.  And not a million dollars, but $30K might do it for these petty thieves, but is your life worth it to wear your fancy clothes and purses or broadcasting what you do in life to have someone put your life at stake for some chump change???  Dress down and enjoy yourself, just be vigilant. 

Remember, in staying in lodging out of the country, the hotels don't do background checks on their employees and they may have ill intentions for taking the jobs within the hotel.  They may just work the front desk, clean your room or run the bar, but they may be gathering information about you or preparing to steal your identity.  This can be true in the states as well!!!!!  Don't leave your valuables in the open or unlocked in your room or your car.  Use the trunk, glove box or in-room safe for security.  Also, when staying in a room choose to stay on floors 3 through 7.  Third floor up because the blast from an explosion will lose it's energy/strength by the time it reached the third floor and don't stay higher than floor seven because firetruck ladders can't reach that high! 

When you see something out of the ordinary, say something.  I know it's a saying we hear on TV about homeland security, but it really is true.  If you see someone on the street corner timing traffic lights and patterns, taking pictures of surrounding buildings or they just seem REALLY out of place, then report it.  It is better to be safe than sorry.

As for an active shooter situation....take cover.  Simple as that. With so many shootings in this country, you need to know what to do in that situation.  Take cover and preferably into a locked area if you can.  LEAVE YOUR BELONGINGS RIGHT WHERE THEY ARE.  YOUR PURSE/BAG CAN BE REPLACED, YOU CANNOT.  If you can't hide, then duck and cover in place.  As a last resort, try to subdue the shooter.  When the police arrive, stay in place and they will find you. They will be coming with guns at the ready and in full body armor with adrenaline pumping!!!  Don't let them think you are part of it, instead just hold your place, and do as instructed!

This is all very important information and can help you make more informed and decisive decisions whether you live in little no where Nebraska or Montana.  The big city like Sacramento or San Antonio.  This pertains to ALL of us!!

Be vigilant.  Be safe.  Be mindful!!

W