The U.S. Army's Role in Homeland Security: What Changes Are Needed?

Abstract

Abstract : The terrorist attack on 11 September, 2001 was the turning point in how America approaches the issue of homeland defense. Prior to this date, homeland defense was considered to be just one of the many issues facing our nation in the 21st Century. Prior leadership had recognized some of the dangers our nation might face in the hands of terrorist or rogue nations, but had addressed them with only limited resources. It was just one of the many priorities competing for resources. This attack however, has forcibly placed homeland defense as the top issue facing our nation today. Our nation is just beginning to fully understand the threats facing our national security. It is truly a remarkable time in which we live. Our national leadership is waging a war against a threat that takes advantage of the freedoms offered through democracy. These threats place a growing burden of security and response upon governmental agencies. Our government is working diligently to address these issues, but the enormity of effort involved is daunting. In response, the President has established the Office of Presidential Advisor for Homeland Security to manage and coordinate the efforts of states, the military, the federal government and the nation's interagency to address the multitude of security issues facing our nation today and in the future. The Department of Defense (DoD) is a supporting effort in this process. It is currently in a continuous review of the possible threats and requirements needed to support our nation's civil authorities in terms of homeland security, defense and civil support. This paper will review the greatest threats posed by rogue states and terrorist organizations in the form of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). It will then review how DoD, and the Army supports homeland security, defense and civil support. Finally, the paper will address possible options for consideration that might better support the Army's mission of homeland defense and civil support.