Base implements higher security measures Published May 20, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Dennis L. Sloan Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst upgraded from Force Protection Condition Alpha to FPCON Bravo May 1 along with all continental U.S. military installations. The rise in FPCON level was sent down by the U.S. Northern Command as a result of former al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden's death. All Air Force installations reported they were in compliance with the FPCON level upgrade May 3. FPCON Bravo is applied when an increased or more predictable terrorist threat exists. The JB MDL Crisis Action Team and the Threat Working Group convened on May 1. After reviewing all the FPCON Bravo measures the TWG gave recommendations to Brig. Gen. Gina Grosso, JB MDL commander, and the CAT. Grosso implemented the approved higher FPCON measures following the CAT's review. One of the first steps when FPCON levels are raised is notifying the base community of the upgrade. Marquees, located at base entrances, display the new FPCON level and base media sources, such as the base newspaper, website, Facebook page and Twitter feed reflect this message as well. "We want everyone to be aware of the situation," said Donna Smith, 87th Air Base Wing Antiterrorism officer. "By publishing articles on the upgraded FPCON, it helps to bring awareness to not only servicemembers and civilian personnel, but also to the family members on base." Servicemembers, as well as community members, should practice operational security at all times. "When you're at lunch don't talk about things the public should not hear, because not everyone around here is associated with the military," said Smith. "Also, if you're staying in a hotel, make sure you conceal all military documents because maids will see them if they aren't." It is everyone's responsibility to be aware of his or her surroundings at all times not only during an upgraded FPCON level. Mail screening is another measure that is taken when FPCON levels are raised. Suspicious mail or packages are not taken lightly and are handed to authorities for inspection. Base entrances are on high alert to deter terrorist plans or attacks and random antiterrorism measures are being performed across the installation. "This is the time to check the identification of the person you do not recognize in the hall, commissary or even those walking on the base sidewalks," said Joe Vasquez, 87th ABW Antiterrorism specialist. "If you see something, say something. This is not the time to be shy or complacent." Contact JB MDL Security Forces Squadron at 562-6001 to report suspicious activity.