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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 10, 2002

Hawai'i military bases boost security levels

By Mike Gordon
Advertiser Staff Writer

Military installations across the state increased their level of security today in response to heightened concerns nationwide on the eve of the first anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

Hickam Air Force Base spokesman Maj. Stephen Clutter said today that "due to increased terrorist threat," people trying to get on base should expect 100 percent ID checks, random security inspections and delays.

The Army issued a similar statement, saying that installations in Hawai'i would increase force protection measures today that will remain in effect until further notice.

The Navy said the same thing.

"Due to world events, all Navy facilities throughout Hawai'i are in a heightened state of force protection," said Agnes Tauyan, a spokeswoman for Navy Region, Hawai'i. "The safety of our people, our bases and our naval assets are paramount."

Tauyan could not say, however, if the security posture today was greater than in recent weeks. Base visitors and employees have been subjected to 100 percent ID checks since before the terrorist attacks, she said.

Officials at Marine Corps Base Hawai'i would not say today if their level of security concern had changed.

"We don't disclose our force protection levels," said base spokesman Maj. Chris Hughes. "But clearly, we have stepped things up a bit. We get the same briefings the other branches of the service get."

He said delays should be minimal, despite 100 percent ID checks.

Security will be heightened at Honolulu International Airport tomorrow and will be more visible, but officials said there will be no additional checkpoints.

"If people are vigilant and follow instructions by not carrying prohibited items or metal objects in their pockets, it will cut down on delays," said Sidney Hayakawa, federal security director for Honolulu International Airport.

Reach Mike Gordon at mgordon@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8012.