This administration is taking political advantage with our national security. Desperate for a “win”, they capitalize on an opportunity where from their perspective it’s a “win-win” situation. How?

After the debacle that was the Christmas day terror attack, where our Commander in Chief and his top intelligence officer remained on vacation not to interfere with much needed and valuable “family” time, the administration sends FBI agents to Nigeria to meet with Mr. Abdulmutallab’s family. This kinder, gentler approach produces a talkative terrorist who reveals who he trained with and where, as well as other pertinent information they refuse to divulge under National Security issues. However, administration officials are comfortable enough to discuss openly what type of information they have received to give us insight to what they are doing and why their approach worked so well. Now we have information that the next attack is “certain” within the next three to six months. (Note: no increase in threat level).

There are multiple operational and security issues facing us today and tomorrow which need to be addressed now. The upcoming terrorism trials and the effect they will have are just one example. Organizations, who might be reluctant to conduct true risk assessments on their properties, should at the very least conduct a “Facilitated Discussion” of their concepts to deal with such issues.

While everyone is trying to “read the tea leaves” to determine the next terrorist attack, the reality is all attacks, regardless of man-made or natural, present some basic problems which need to be recognized. Trying to determine the timing of the next attack and how it affects us is overwhelming for most. It is very easy to be consumed with the attack and become stalled in your thinking. You have little to no control over when or where the attack occurs. Understanding what you do have control over and reacting appropriately is key.