Civilians, dependants learn of terrorist danger

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Amanda Callahan
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The 319th Air Refueling Wing's Anti-terrorism Office has introduced a new anti-terrorism level one class for community contractors, civilian employees, dependent spouses and children age 14 and older.

"We like to give the attendees an opportunity to ask questions and get in depth," said Master Sgt. Kelly Hogness, AT's senior NCO in charge. "AT/FP (force protection) is everyone's responsibility."

Civilian and dependent attendees can look forward to a class focused on different types of terrorism, detecting surveillance, what to do in a hostage situation, understanding force protection conditions and threat levels, as well as individual protective measures.

According to Sergeant Hogness, he uses real-world current and past events to describe the potential dangers due to terrorism, such as Timothy McVeigh, who used farm supplies to carry out his horrendous attack.

"Hopefully, contractors will be more aware of their assets and materials," he added. "Also, we hope they take the information and make a mental note about domestic terrorism. They'd be aware of groups, gangs, historical connections terrorists have made with gang members. We want to make them alert of some of the risks that are out there."

For families, there is a different type of take-away.

"It's an awaking," he said. "It'll let them know that even though they're not active military members, they're still an active member of the first line security."

According to feedback received from a class participant, the class is very useful.

"She said 'I've been twice to antiterrorism training, but this is the best ever. I understood everything.' That tells me she appreciated the training that was given," added Sergeant Hogness.

In addition to AT training, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations stops in to give a brief explanation of the base's Eagle Eyes program, which is a global neighborhood watch program for on- and off-base residents.

More than anything, the class is used to educate base personnel and residents.

"I want them to know their responsibility and role as a line of security for the base and United States as a whole," added Sergeant Hogness. "You don't have to be wearing a uniform to be diligent and be aware of what's going on."