Stay vigilant, keep neighborhood safe

  • Published
  • By Special Agent James Krills
  • Air Force Office of Special Investigations
As a result of the 9-11 terrorist attack, the Air Force implemented an antiterrorism program called "Eagle Eyes," which is managed by the Air Force Office of Special Investigation. Much like a neighborhood watch program, the Eagle Eyes program is an aggressive Air Force-wide watch program that educates people on observable activities and what to do if they see suspicious activity or incidents. The motto for Eagle Eyes is, "Watch, Report, Protect."

Much like a neighborhood watch program, "Eagle Eyes" enlists the help of base personnel whether active duty, reservist, family members, civilian contractors, as well as, the civilian communities surrounding the base to remain vigilant and keep their eyes and ears open to any suspicious activities.

The 2001 attack did not just spontaneously happen. There were precursor events that occurred that eventually led to the attack. These terrorists conducted surveillance, planned their attacks, and rehearsed their operation.

Lessons learned in the federal law enforcement and intelligence communities played a key role in the development of Eagle Eyes.

Of most importance, we learned that every terrorist act is preceded by observable activities. These activities usually include surveillance, elicitation for information, tests of security, acquiring supplies, a dry run practice of the terrorist act, and deploying the assets to commit the act. Once the assets are deployed to commit an attack, it is almost always too late to prevent the act from occurring.

AFOSI agents are out on the streets daily briefing Eagle Eyes information not only to the base community, but also to local vendors and companies that may be of interest to a terrorist. Through education, it is possible to train individuals on how to help prevent a terrorist attack from occurring.

When the community is aware of pre-attack indicators, every member can play a vital role in deterring a potential attack.

Once a potential indicator is observed and reported to AFOSI, AFOSI can then investigate the reported activity.

Here are some examples of local Eagle Eyes reports that occurred here in the past year: multiple vehicles stopped along the Richardson Highway; unauthorized photography of flight line; attempted unauthorized entry to the installation; multiple elicitation events and a telephone call threat to Eielson AFB resources.

By reaching out to Air Force members, their families and the local community through educational briefings and word of mouth, these incidents were reported in a timely manner and ultimately serve to keep our community safe. The actions of the Iceman Team in reporting these incidents clearly disrupt potential criminal and terrorist planning.

Through education, many incidents can be easily avoided. Simple things like not leaving valuables, such as your military identification, military uniforms, or deployment gear in your vehicles not only reduces the chance of property theft, it can prevent potential terrorist activity from occurring with these items.

Law Enforcement officials, to include AFOSI agents, cannot be everywhere at all times. The Eagle Eyes program relies on every Airmen and community member to remain vigilant. Only you know your neighborhood best. Only you know your workplace well. Please continue to get involved, remain cognizant and "Watch Report and Protect."

For additional information or to speak with an AFOSI Agent, contact Special Agent Mark Jendro at 377-1852.