CHIEVRES, Belgium -- "What we feared has happened, we were hit by blind attacks," said Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel during a press conference following terrorist attacks that killed more than 30 and hurt hundreds more in Brussels on March 22.
That morning, Brussels residents and commuters had just started their work day or daily activities. Thousands of travelers of all nationalities had already gathered at the Brussels International Airport in Zaventem. Some were U.S. citizens going on leave, returning from a trip or reporting to the Benelux as new employees. Others were sponsors linking up with newcomers.
A normal busy day in the capital of Europe quickly turned into chaos after a first blast ripped through the airport and a second hit at the Maelbeek metro station, near the European Union headquarters.
Emergency services rushed to both scenes, as the threat rating in Belgium was raised to level 4, its highest, and media were on scene soon after each explosion. The world watched the tragic events as they unfolded, the most deadly terrorist attack in Belgian history.
For members of the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux community, the attack meant being hit at home. Leadership immediately gathered to conduct accountability checks and assess the support needed. Zaventem is the airport of choice for many Americans living and working in the Benelux area and the metro is a popular transportation mode in Brussels. Tracking Americans at either one of those sites and connecting with them was a top priority.
While rescue operations continued in Brussels, the garrison staff implemented its emergency response plan, including liaison work with the SHAPE Federal Police. Thanks to decades of collaboration and joint training, Belgian policemen and their U.S. military counterparts knew exactly how to react. Nearby police reported to the Directorate of Emergency Services and worked hand in hand with their U.S. counterparts.
"I have a sincere appreciation for the SHAPE Federal Police," said Cheryle Hess, the USAG Benelux deputy garrison commander. "They were instrumental in the liaison work with the Brussels police forces and emergency responders. I'm very proud of how well we worked together."
That joint effort helped track the garrison's incoming and outgoing personnel and families, while ensuring the safety and security of others to any extent possible. In some cases, coordination, which went smoothly said officials, occurred in three countries.
The team also came together to ensure those who lost their luggage received toiletries, clothing and other basic items. Many agencies were involved: American Red Cross, Army Community Services, AAFES and the Commissary to name just a few.
Joe and Rose Castro had just flown in and had stored their luggage in their rental car when Zaventem was hit. They had to move out of the airport quickly but made it safely to their hotel in Mons within hours, thanks to the help of an airport employee and of two SHAPE U.S. employees. "The support we got here was just overwhelming," Joe said. "We're so fortunate that we didn't get hurt."
In the following morning of March 23, the country awoke to a combination of grief and resolve.
The grief was formally expressed through three days of national mourning and moments of silence. Many nations, including the United States, flew the Belgian colors at half-staff in support. USAG Benelux also supported the days of mourning by flying both the U.S. and Belgian colors at half-staff. "We express our sincere support to our host nation staff and friends for the tragic events that just occurred," Hess said.
The resolve translated in law enforcement and judicial actions taken to pursue terrorists behind the bombings, but also in medical and psychological care, as well as in stressing steps people can take to protect themselves.
The State Department published an alert warning U.S. citizens of potential risks of travel to and throughout Europe following several terrorist attacks, including those in Brussels. Experts believe terrorist groups are continuing to plan near-term attacks throughout the continent, targeting sporting events, tourist sites, restaurants and transportation.
Officials urge U.S. citizens to exercise vigilance when in public places or using mass transportation, along with remaining aware of their immediate surroundings, avoid crowded places and exercise particular caution during religious holidays and at large festivals or events.
According to the alert, U.S. citizens should also:
•Follow the instructions of local authorities, especially in an emergency.
•Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
•Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.
•Stay in touch with their family members and ensure they know how to reach them in the event of an emergency.
•Register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
Additionally, USAG Benelux leaders encourage everyone to review their personal social media posts carefully. Social media sites instantly connect users within a global network, quickly moving information -- for good or bad. They open doors to family and friends far away and are a useful communication tool in case of a crisis; however, they also open doors to less desirable contacts and activities such as identity theft, burglary, stalking and intelligence gathering.
Community members should also be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity through the iReport process or to local law enforcement agencies.
With the current threat environment, European governments are guarding against terrorist attacks and conducting raids to disrupt plots. Also, U.S. agencies are working closely with their overseas partners by sharing information.
(Editor's Note: This is the first in a series on the Brussels bombings.)
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