KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany -- The threat of terrorism affects communities around the world, and recognizing those threats and encouraging consistent vigilance and communication to report them is what Antiterrorism Awareness Month is all about.
"Terrorism is an enduring, persistent, worldwide threat to our nation and military," said Terry Dunlap, U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Antiterrorism officer. "The intent of Antiterrorism Awareness Month is to conduct education and awareness for Soldiers, Department of the Army civilian employees, family members and retirees to increase terrorism awareness and vigilance across the Army."
This year's focus is placed on recognizing and reporting suspicious activity; cyber security and awareness; school safety and awareness; tenant and community involvement and antiterrorism risk assessments, Dunlap said.
"These focus areas tie to our senior leaders' priority of readiness. Recognizing and reporting suspicious activities ensure our personnel and assets are available and safe from terrorist attacks and are ready to fight. Ensuring cyber security allows for systems to remain active and available," he said. "Engaging tenants in security and awareness programs allows for all personnel and assets to be available when needed. Lastly, conducting AT assessments ensures subordinate units are prepared to engage whenever necessary."
Although Antiterrorism Awareness Month takes place every August, people should focus on protecting themselves year round, Dunlap said.
"As we know the threat in our area is real. It's not a matter of 'if' an act of terrorism will happen -- it's a matter of 'when' it will happen," he said. "With a proper understanding of the common types and targets of attacks, we can limit our exposure and protect our missions, service members, employees and families."
USAG RP Deputy to the Garrison Commander Dr. Kevin Griess echoed Dunlap's sentiment.
"Everyone in our community by virtue of who we are, what we do, and where we are may be seen as a target by some bad people out there," said Griess, a retired Air Force Security Forces Defender of 22 years. "Are we at more risk overseas? Yes, we are. That's why it is crucial that we emphasize prevention programs to keep our military communities educated and involved in antiterrorism awareness."
People can also download the iReport or iSalute app on their smart phones. So, when they see a suspicious act, they can send a message to our local law enforcement, antiterrorism office and military investigation personnel to quickly react, Dunlap said. Additionally, dialing 110 from any phone line on or off post will connect people with law-enforcement professionals who can immediately respond. Bottom line is -- if you see something, say something."
For more information about antiterrorism awareness and how to keep you and your family safe, visit the Antiterrorism Awareness Month booth from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aug. 10, in the food court of the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center on Ramstein Air Base. USAG RP and 66th Military Intelligence Brigade ATOs, emergency management and operations security managers will be available to answer questions and provide information to visitors.
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