Tuesday, June 11, 2002

We are inundated with "news". Terrorists are trying to build a "dirty bomb", but are so inept that they can't find the radioactive materials (thank God). Nations with nuclear power plants cannot account for all of the materials in their possession. Or, much worse, cannot be guaranteed to provide adequate safeguards for the nuclear weapons in their stockpiles. The agencies that guard our borders cannot detect any of this material over distances greater than a few yards.

This is but one category to worry about. Threats are made against water supplies, power grids, bridges, and large buildings.

I am very relieved that the FBI and CIA are working together, and were able to capture two terrorists who are alleged to be part of the “dirty bomb” plot. I hope that the disparate agencies that will in all likelihood be merged into the Department of Homeland Security will work together amongst themselves and with the FBI, CIA, NSA, etc. to separate the true threats from the hoaxes and rumors.

It’s in our nature as Americans to have a generally positive outlook on life. We generally want to believe that our government will protect us, and will leave us largely alone to live happy, productive lives. I haven’t had much contact with the government other than working with the men and women I served with during my four years in the Air Force (’75-’79). That was a tough time; Vietnam had just ended. Morale should have been low. I found the experience to be extremely gratifying. I pulled many “all nighters” working on software for the Air Force Manpower and Personnel Center. Senior officers were right there, too. I wish those people, and their successors who work just as hard, got the credit they deserve.

I for one prefer to live my life vigilant for things I can do something about, but generally trusting those who’ve decided to sacrifice a part of their lives for the good of us all. We’re lucky enough to have the chance to vote to change things if we disagree with the overall direction from the top every four years. Are you registered?