The September 11th attack
National Guard to start airport duty Sunday

By Mike Gordon
Advertiser Staff Writer

From students to waiters to businessmen, the citizen soldiers of the Hawai'i National Guard are preparing for security duty at the state's airports, beginning Sunday.

All are volunteering for the job, which could last up to six months, said Maj. Chuck Anthony, Guard spokesman. Most personnel will probably be assigned for shorter periods, however, probably two to three weeks.

"It's bolstering what's there, not replacing anybody," Anthony said. "What we have done is gotten a pool of volunteers."

The governor on Tuesday said he had activated 145 guard personnel in response to President Bush's request that states use them for airport security.

Most Guard members will have to leave full-time jobs, but Anthony said their ranks will likely include tourism workers who were laid off or saw their hours slashed because of the recent economic downturn.

The majority of those standing guard will earn about $1,600 to $1,700 a month, Anthony said.

With their rifles, helmets and green camouflaged uniforms, Guard members will be a visible presence at curbs and throughout the state's airports.

"They will be stationed at the security checkpoints," said Marilyn Kali, spokeswoman for the state Department of Transportation, which oversees airports. "They are being trained by the (Federal Aviation Administration) on what to look for."