Protecting your belongings crucial, even at Eielson

  • Published
  • By Investigator Justin Buchholz
  • 354th Security Forces Investigations
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  All of us in the armed forces often feel a sense of security as we pass through the gates of whatever installation we are assigned to, as we should.

We are safer here, behind these fences, than we are in many places. However, there is still a threat that lurks almost everywhere. I'm not speaking of Al-Qaeda or any other terrorist organizations that wish us harm ... even though that threat is also real and always requires our vigilance.

It's the criminal threat I want to address. Here at Eielson, there is a small criminal threat, but it exists none-the-less.

Due to the sense of security we have within the confines of our fair installation we may feel as though we need not lock our cars during the night, lock our lockers while we are at the fitness center, lock our dorm room doors while we are at work, or ensure our children know to lock their bicycles while they shop at the base exchange. This is not the case.

Make yourself a hard target for criminals and terrorists alike. Always secure your belongings. There are people within our fences that may succumb to the temptation of an easy target. Please lock up your houses, vehicles and ensure your other belongings are always accounted for and secured.

It is all too often that the one trusting Airman who leaves his vehicle unlocked is taken advantage of by someone who has no integrity or honor.

This summer has seen many thefts from small to large; from debit cards to stereo systems, purses, bike racks, cars and anything else imaginable.

Many thieves will grab what they can, while they can, and often only when the opportunity presents itself. Few are the thieves that plan, gather equipment and suspend themselves from the ceiling Tom Cruise style to get what they want.

Please remember to be ever watchful for that thief in the night. You can reach the Security Forces Dispatch Center at 377-5130, or you may contact Security Force Investigation section at 377-4215/5276. Dial 911 for emergencies.