Domestic Policy

White House Backs Marshals’ Actions In Bomb Scare

December 10, 2005 ⋅  E-Mail Article ⋅  Print Article ⋅ Post a comment

I cannot believe all of the discussion I am hearing about whether the Air Marshals behaved correctly in addressing the potential bomber at the Miami airport. I understand the position of liberals, and all the, ‘We have to make sure we do it right”, statements. However, when the safety of tens, and hundreds, of American citizens are at stake we must consider what is really practical.

If someone screams bomb, then behaves irrationally, and reaches into a bag, I think that is every justification for a lethal reaction. If you don’t want to be shot then do not say the words, “I have a bomb”, in public, it’s that simple. These men are trained to protect lives not interview terrorists, or at the very least, unbalanced individuals.

I am for civil rights, and protections, and all that, but when it comes to modern day protection, I know there is not, nor will there most likely ever be again, a fair balance of rights and protections. We have had to give a little to get a little.

It’s easy to sit back and judge after the fact, but we need protection based on split second reads and determinations, not next day observations. The laws are in place and there should be no leniency for anyone who breaks them. Act in a manner that makes you appear dangerous and you by default accept the consequences of your behavior.

When a terrorist says I’m sorry after the fact it does no good to the lives he destroyed. I would rather have these Air Marshals know that we trust their judgment and we support their actions, on this there can be no debate.

Review their actions, that is only reasonable, but do not allow the media, or politicians, a forum to rail these guys as a way to vent their frustration with current policies they may disagree with, such as the Patriot Act, or Immigration Reform, or Racial Profiling.

I applaud the White House for immediately defending the marshals’ actions. Scott McClellan stated, “Air marshals receive extensive training, some of the most extensive of any law enforcement agency, and we are very appreciative for all that our air marshals are doing to protect the American people.” McClellan also stated that standard investigation were under way and noted that these investigations help officials learn lessons and apply those to future training and protocols.
White House backs air marshals’ actions

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