HOMELAND DEFENSE

Homeland Defense

Abstract

The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the Madrid train station bombings, the London subway bombings, and the Bali night club bombings, are a reminder that terrorism is a global issue. Not a day goes by without some form of atrocity in the name of terrorism perpetrated on an unsuspecting public. Protecting the public at large has been the main consideration of the United States and many Western governments U.S. efforts have been centered on protecting the homeland and the rapid rejuvenation of its intelligence services and apparatus. While the tragic events of 9-11 recede somewhat from our memories, new terror events are taking shape daily such as the ongoing insurgency in Iraq and the threat to Western interests in Indonesia and the Persian Gulf. We continue to wonder what will happen next.

Table of Contents

Abstract2

I. Introduction4

1. Awareness4

2. Prevention5

II. What is Terrorism?6

1. Make of terrorist6

2. Terrorist operation8

3. Weapon of mass destruction10

Nuclear Weapons12

Biological Weapons12

Chemical Weapons13

Radiological Weapons13

III. Who is Terrorist?13

1. Domestic14

2. International14

IV. Protecting our Communities15

1. Terrorist vulnerabilities15

2. Staying alert16

3. Overcoming stereotyping17

4. Recognize suspicious activity18

1. What to report19

2. Who to call20

VI. Conclusion21

References23

The Importance of Homeland Defense

I. Introduction

Prior to September 11, 2001, few Americans were familiar with the concept of homeland security. Since 9/11, however, homeland defense against terrorists has become a priority. Yet homeland security involves more than the prevention of terrorist acts. Broadly speaking, homeland security encompasses a wide range of activities designed to address transnational crime, recover from natural and environmental disasters, prevent pandemics, and protect the quantity and quality of life for all.

Major organizational changes have occurred within the federal government. Additionally, states, private businesses, and individuals are keenly aware of the need to prevent and respond effectively to catastrophic events. This chapter addresses major homeland security concerns and challenges the reader to identify appropriate disaster and disorder prevention and response techniques.

1. Awareness

The concept of homeland security did not emerge in the aftermath of 9/11. Rather, the notion of homeland security in the United States has evolved throughout the history of the nation. The U.S. Constitution (Article 4, Section 4) established a republic in which the primary responsibility for homeland security (maintenance of law and order) rests with state and local governments. The national government's role is secondary, spurned to intervene when state and local governments are unable to cope with disorder or disaster. In fact, the Constitution severely limits the national government's ability to intervene in criminal matters within the United States. As time passed, the national government became more actively involved with homeland security issues by asserting federal authority when incidents: (1) threatened the unity principle of the federal system of government; (2) threatened national security and involved foreign nations; or (3) violated laws enacted by Congress. (Wise, 2006)

Beginning with World War I, the federal role in homeland defense expanded greatly. The United States was no longer isolated. The emergence of globalism, the corporate culture, and de-emphasis on states' rights altered Americans' lives and the way they viewed the role of the national ...