JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- In May 2007, six extremists were arrested after surveilling military installations in the Northeast, arming themselves, and ultimately planning an assault on Fort Dix, N.J., with automatic weapons.
In May 2009, four men were arrested with plans to bomb two synagogues in the Bronx and shoot down military aircraft outside Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, N.Y.
In December 2018, a Toledo couple was arrested for plotting to blow up a local bar. The couple caught the attention of law enforcement in large part due to their social media posts.
August 2019 is the U.S. Army’s tenth observance of Antiterrorism Month, and these events serve as a reminder of the ever-present threat of terrorism, and the importance of vigilance and reporting those potential threats.
“It’s every Airman’s responsibility,” said Purvis R. Coley Jr, the 108th Security Forces Squadron training manager. Coley went on to explain that the term ‘antiterrorism’ encompasses a variety of specific trainings conducted on a regular basis throughout the 108th Wing.
“(Antiterrorism awareness) is holistic,” Coley said. “It’s very multifaceted. I like the way the Air Force approaches it with a preemptive effort to make sure everyone knows what to expect in the event something does happen.”
If you see something suspicious, the Joint Base Crime Stop number is 609-754-COPS (2677), or dial 911 in any emergency situation.
What do I need to report?
- People drawing or measuring important buildings
- Strangers asking questions about security forces or security procedures
- A briefcase, suitcase, backpack or package left behind
- Cars or trucks left in “No Parking” zones in front of important buildings
- Intruders found in secure areas
- A person wearing clothes that are too big and bulky and/or too hot for the weather
- Chemical smells or fumes that worry you
- Questions about sensitive information, such as building blueprints, security plans or VIP travel schedules without a right or need to know
- Purchasing supplies or equipment that can be used to make bombs or weapons or purchasing uniforms without having the proper credentials.