Fort Buchanan, located in Puerto Rico, recently hosted the Fifteenth Antiterrorism Symposium, where federal law enforcement agencies and members of the United States Army came together to educate and raise awareness in the community about identifying and reporting suspicions of terrorism on the island. The event was attended by officers from various agencies such as the Border Patrol, the FBI, the Army Reserve, the National Guard, the Coast Guard, the Marine Corps, and civilian personnel assigned to the military installation.
Samuel Dorta, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Puerto Rico, emphasized the importance of collaboration with military partners at Fort Buchanan to provide valuable information and education to prepare against any potential threats. He highlighted that military installations are often viewed as valuable targets by enemies, making it crucial to stay vigilant and informed.
Luis R. Capestany Martinez, supervisor of the intelligence and investigations unit of the Border Patrol, stressed the importance of keeping a watchful eye and reporting any suspicious activity. He reminded the community that being in Puerto Rico does not exempt them from potential threats and encouraged everyone to adopt a „see something, say something“ approach to prevent any harm.
Colonel Charles N. Moulton, commander of Fort Buchanan, emphasized that the symposium was not meant to create alarm but to ensure preparedness in an increasingly complex world. He highlighted the need for awareness and understanding of how terrorists operate, especially in scenarios where crises like natural disasters could be exploited for attacks.
The topics covered during the symposium included migration routes to Puerto Rico, preventing active shooter events, information about extremist groups on the internet, and cyberterrorism. Hector Herrera, a Fort Buchanan counterterrorism specialist, emphasized the importance of being vigilant against cyber-attacks, citing recent incidents in local infrastructure.
The symposium was part of Antiterrorism Awareness Month observed by the military across the United States. The Army’s counterterrorism program recognizes terrorism as an enduring and global threat that requires readiness to deter, prevent, and defend against various tactics. With an annual investment of over $500 million in the local economy, Fort Buchanan plays a crucial role in enhancing readiness and facilitating the deployment of military personnel.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Fort Buchanan and federal law enforcement agencies underscores the commitment to raising awareness and preparedness against terrorism in Puerto Rico. By educating the community and fostering a culture of vigilance, the symposium serves as a valuable platform to identify, deter, and mitigate any potential terrorist threats on the island.