reach out to your neighbors and rest assured
Today I am announcing that the Department of Homeland Security has issued aviation emergency amendments to further enhance security relating to both passenger and cargo aircraft flying to, from and over the United States. Specifically, we have requested that international air carriers, where necessary, place trained, armed, government law enforcement officers on designated flights as an added protective measure. These directives, effectively immediately, are part of our ongoing effort to make air travel safe for Americans and visitors alike.
All Americans should know: Now that we are at a Code Orange state of alert, additional meaningful security measures have been put in place.
And these measures - both visible and invisible to travelers - are blanketing airports, seaports, chemical and nuclear sites, gathering places - all across America, and with unparalleled protection.
I also want to remind all Americans that as we continue under an Orange alert, your awareness and preparedness is critical to the ultimate security of our nation. Reporting any suspicious activity you may see helps security officials help you and your fellow citizens.
Additionally, simple steps you can take - such as preparing a family emergency plan, putting together an emergency supply kit, staying informed - these all can go a long way toward making us more secure and better prepared.
In the end, each of us must remember that we are at war - at war against an enemy driven by hate and determined to destroy the ideals we cherish and the way of life we hold dear. For them, victory is gained if we give in to the terror and panic they seek to create.
And yet, as citizens you make the difference in this fight. When you choose to get on a plane, when you choose to live your lives, when you choose to press on even in the face of fear, you send a message to the terrorists - a message that says, in the midst of threats, we will not give way to fear.
