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Institute for Crisis, Disaster, and Risk Management

Crisis and Emergency Management

April 2004 Volume 6 - Number 3

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Homeland Security...

Department of Homeland Security One-Year Anniversary

By Elaine Wolff

As a result of the events of September 11, 2001, President George W. Bush and the nation has taken an offensive strategy in fighting terrorists abroad. In the world we live in now, we must defend our homeland and prevent future terrorism attacks. As President Bush stated on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) one-year anniversary, March 2, 2004, “we have been called to service. We've been called to action. And we accept that responsibility.” (Bush, 2004)

Formation of DHS & Restructuring of the Federal Government

Approximately 180,000 employees from 22 Federal agencies are working under DHS – the “most sweeping” Federal government reorganization since the Cold War. (Bush, 2004) The formation of DHS has created a centralized chain of command in the area of homeland security and terrorism. The Homeland Security Council (HSC) coordinates all the homeland security activities taking place across the government. In addition, the Terrorist Threat Integration Center has been established as a single centralized place where intelligence on global terror is gathered and analyzed. In addition to these major accomplishments, in the last 12 months, DHS has made significant process in

§ air travel and airport security,

§ border and infrastructure security,

§ dangerous weapons (chem. & bio), and

§ first responders training.

Air Travel & Airport Security

DHS is in the process of completing a massive overhaul of security at our nation's airports. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees are conducting baggage/passenger screenings. In addition, Federal air marshals are on hundreds of commercial flights daily.

Border Security

DHS has strengthened security on our border and in our port of entry through improved Visa and inspection processes, has increased DHS presence at foreign ports, and has enhanced seaport and border security. The U.S. VISIT program is an example of DHS’ efforts in this area - over 1.5 million travelers are registered into the program.

Critical Infrastructure

DHS has strengthened the defenses of our nation’s key infrastructures - transportation networks, communication systems and power grids. This incorporates improving security at chemical facilities. In addition, DHS established a national cyber security division to examine cyber incidents, track attacks and coordinate nationwide responses.

“Dangerous Weapons” (Chem & Bio Threats)

The most sophisticated technologies are being used against the threat of chemical and biological weapons. For example, the BioWatch program monitors the air of 30 large cities across the country for biological agents. In addition, Project BioShield is providing funds for developing and acquiring vaccines and treatments for biological agents.

First Responders

Since September 11, 2001, more than $13 billion has equipped and trained first responders in responding to terrorism and other emergencies. The National Incident Management System (NIMS) has also been created in an effort to have a clear chain of command in place to be utilized by the Federal government agencies working together to respond a crisis.

Patriot Act

In addition to all the activities listed above, the Bush Administration, utilizing the Patriot Act and other post-September 11 legislation, works to ensure our nation has all the tools necessary to fight the terrorists.

References

Bush, GW. Remarks made on the One-Year Anniversary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on 02MAR04. Transcript can be obtained from the Office of the Press Secretary of the White House at http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/03/20040302-2.html on 03/20/04.

Office of the Press Secretary of the White House. Fact Sheet: President Highlights a More Secure America on First Anniversary of Department of Homeland Security. 02MAR04. Obtained from www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/03/20040302-4.html on 03/20/04.