Panetta Raises Force-Protection Levels in Advance of 9/11

Military bases across the United States are boosting security in advance of the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta raised the force-protection levels on Wednesday, mostly for military installations in the United States, after receiving the request from Army Gen. Charles Jacoby, commander of US Northern Command. “This is not in response to any specific or credible threat surrounding the 10th anniversary of 9/11,” said Pentagon spokesman George Little. “But, we believe it is prudent and precautionary to take such a step.” Al Qaeda documents that US special forces seized in the raid against Osama bin Laden in May mentioned the upcoming anniversary, plus, the terrorist organization is known for plotting attacks on major holidays or anniversaries, he said. The increased security measures will remain in place “through the anniversary,” said Navy Capt. John Kirby, Pentagon media operations director. (AFPS release by Cheryl Pellerin)