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Future Role of Fire Service in Homeland Security
"As action-oriented organizations, fire departments have traditionally played a reactive role in public safety, responding to emergencies in progress to protect the lives, and property of their citizens. The problem is that the world has changed. Increasing terrorist threats against our homeland and the potential for pandemic or other natural disasters are shifting the mission and placing new unconventional demands on the fire department. Meeting these challenges will require strategies to identify and address the future role of the fire service in homeland security. This thesis used the Delphi method to explore what this future role might be. Information, responses, and recommendations from three groups of SMEs were examined, analyzed, and synthesized to determine key issues the fire service will face. The future role of the fire service in homeland security will demand the need for progressive leadership, effective collaboration, intelligence engagement, and the adoption of a shifting mission that supports preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery of terrorist attacks. Emerging issues and areas of responsibility to meet new asymmetrical threats require a response paradigm. This response paradigm in the fire department should include the ability to adjust service delivery to meet all hazard and homeland security demands."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cloud, Rosemary
2008-09
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Tools of Prevention: Building Prevention and Deterrence into Exercise Programs
"This thesis will briefly explore the questions surrounding why prevention has typically not been incorporated into homeland security exercises and strives to document and demonstrate that prevention can be exercised. It will look at various prevention strategies, most notably, 'All-Crimes,' Information Sharing, Private Sector Security, Attack Trees, Red-Teaming, and Behavioral Analysis, to determine how these prevention-related tools can be integrated into exercise design and conduct. These tools can be used in exercises individually or in groups. They are, however, not the end-state, as other tools undoubtedly exist. Prevention as a science and a skill is still in its infancy; with additional research, analysis, and practice, maturity will come. This thesis also endeavors to provide a road map for agencies desiring to understand and exercise prevention activities. Understanding that prevention can be practiced and exercised through the use of certain tools is one significant step in having the guidance necessary to begin a prevention exercise, or better, a complete prevention exercise program. Agencies using these tools, working within the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) Guidelines, and using technical expertise available from local, national, and federal subject-matter experts, should have that road map."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Meehan, Michael K.
2006-09
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Suggestions for Improving the Recruitment of Al-Qaeda Sources: Lessons Derived from Counter-Ideological Programs and the Targeting of Type B Terrorists
"How can the FBI improve the recruitment of sources within terrorist groups, specifically al-Qaeda? First, counter-ideological programs have application in source recruitment. Second, a framework for recruiting terrorist sources is found in the work of Paul Davis and Brian Jenkins. They suggest terrorists can be usefully categorized as internalists or externalists, or Types A and B. Type A terrorists have insatiable appetites and display emotional aggression. Type B terrorists have instrumental aggression and 'pragmatic world goals.' Significantly, research suggests terrorists displaying instrumental aggression, the Type B terrorist, should be more 'sensitive' to 'objective rewards and punishments.' Two case studies demonstrate how to determine if a potential terrorist source is either a Type A or Type B individual. This is accomplished by examining a potential source's background to determine if they have instrumental or emotional aggression, their levels of risk and ideological commitment, their part-time or full-time commitment to jihad, and if they have high or low Social Intensity Syndrome. The conclusion of this thesis is that the FBI should concentrate recruitments on the more pragmatic Type B terrorists."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Miranda, Robert
2009-03
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Terrorism Prevention and Firefighters: Where are the Information-Sharing Boundaries?
"The nation's one million firefighters are embedded in virtually every urban or rural area of the United States. Firefighters enter homes, businesses, vehicles, and other assets during emergency and non-emergency duties thousands of times each day in their efforts to prevent or respond to life and property loss. The unparalleled access that firefighters have to public and private locations puts them in a unique position to positively or negatively impact our nation's homeland defense and security information-sharing efforts. This thesis analyzes a number of information-sharing activities relating to terrorism and all-hazard strategies, policies, and programs in an attempt to identify whether U.S. fire personnel should participate in terrorism-related information sharing and--if they should participate--where the legal, political, and operational boundaries lie. The research identified a number of new strategic applications and tactical practices. The strategies and tactics are the result of comparing and contrasting legal compliance, political acceptability, target capabilities list linkage, operational impact, and cost factors of the current U.S. fire service information-sharing environment, the New York City Fire Department's Terrorism and Disaster Preparedness Strategy, the U.S. Fire Service's Intelligence Enterprise, and the United Kingdom's Civil Contingencies Act."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Heirston, Bryan
2009-03
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Optimizing Citizen Engagement during Emergencies through Use of Web 2.0 Technologies
"Emergencies and disasters create hardships for citizens. To speed up recovery, local governments need to engage with citizens in an interactive information sharing system to convey information while the incident is still developing and to help mitigate and recover from damages. Lack of effective communication can decrease public trust and engender stress and anxiety of the survivors. As service delivery becomes more complicated during an emergency, responders can also benefit from additional information from the public to increase situational awareness and better understand the challenges facing citizens. This thesis examines emergency information needs, emerging information sharing trends, and the potential homeland security application of Web 2.0 technologies such as wikis, blogs, mashups and text messaging. This thesis examines the use of Web 2.0 technologies during the Southern California wildfires as a case study and interviews top emergency managers throughout the country capturing their insights and opinions about the benefits and pitfalls of incorporating Web 2.0 technologies into existing emergency information sharing systems. Local government agencies, the impacted community, and those outside the immediate area seeking opportunities to assist may be interested in the benefits of context-powered knowledge when collaboration from multiple sources converges to facilitate knowledge used for decision making."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Van Leuven, Laurie J.
2009-03
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Exploring the Plausibility of a National Multi-Agency Communications System for the Homeland Security Community: A Southeast Ohio Half-Duplex Voice Over IP Case Study
"Since 9-11, it has become apparent that the Homeland Security Community is comprised of more than first responders, and is, in essence, a Megacommunity, composed of three components: government, business and non-profits. However, this has not translated into our communications strategies, which presently focus on radios for first responders in an emergency. Many reasons exist for not addressing this gap, including the myths that it is impossible or would be too expensive. Computer gamers, however, have been utilizing low-tech versions of half-duplex VoIP since the 1990s to connect millions worldwide. A Southeast Ohio VoIP system, consisting of health departments, hospitals, emergency management agencies, and their partners, has been testing a similar system since 2003. This thesis offers a definition of the Homeland Security Community, and provides criteria that were then used to evaluate six communications systems for use as integrated national systems, and to judge the plausibility of the Ohio system as a model. This thesis also proposes the concept of a 'Universal Communicator' software system that would address the shortcomings of the Ohio system, and provide an inexpensive solution that would ideally address the nation's need for a national Homeland Security Community Real-Time Voice Communications system."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Smith, Christopher S.
2009-03
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Judicial Review: State Supreme Judicial Views on Balancing Civil Liberties and Public Safety/Security Measures During the Global War on Terror
"Political responses to terrorism in the United States and the international community have been to place limitations upon and/or to suspend civil liberties. Since constraining civil liberties may lead to the spread of terror, balancing the competing interests of individual civil liberties and public safety/security measures imposed by government in times of national emergency is essential to reducing terrorism and to the pursuit of peace. Constitutional courts both federal and state through the mechanism of judicial review serve to guard civil liberties against government encroachment. Yet, some scholars decry judicial review as counter-majoritarian, an illegitimate and undemocratic exercise in a representative democracy, while others laud judicial review as an essential function to advance peace, public participation in governing and legitimating democracy's quest to reduce terrorism. This thesis seeks to transcend the debate over judicial review by exploring the views of State Supreme Court Justices on what factors they consider essential to consider when balancing the competing interests. It invites the reader to engage a global discourse. To participate in the political spaces, judges operate to accept that because judicial review offers an alternative to the sword, it is material and relevant to reducing terrorism and that by focusing on the signals the justices send, the public might respond adequately to preserve human dignity during the global war on terror and beyond."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Fairweather, Patty Allison
2009-03
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Use of State and Local Law Enforcement for Immigration Enforcement under Federal Authority 287(G): A Case Study Analysis
"The issue of 12-20 million illegally-present foreign nationals within the United States brings with it a number of homeland security questions and concerns. The threat of terror organizations utilizing our porous borders or lack of enforcement against us is highly probable. However, in order to deal with the issue of illegal immigration and the homeland security threat that is attached to this problem, the country must develop a strategy that is efficient and effective for all. One possible strategy for combating illegal immigration is the utilization of section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which grants, under limited conditions, law enforcement agencies the authority to use immigration-related information to advance local policing efforts. However, the issue of state and local enforcement of immigration-related matters has become highly contentious. Much has been written about it, but little data has been collected on what these enforcement programs actually do, rather than what supporters and opponents hope or fear they will do. The purpose of this thesis was to examine several situations in which state and local agencies have implemented the 287(g) program. While it is true the use of this authority as a strategy has many factors and elements that must be reviewed prior to further implementation, it is in reality a necessary partnership and prudent measure to keep our nation and our communities safe. The 287(g) program should be strongly considered a national strategy for combating illegal immigration."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Bloom, James S.
2009-03
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Components Necessary for Successful Information Sharing
"The need for information sharing is a growing concern for many agencies in the homeland security field. As communities struggle to prepare for and respond to major incidents, information sharing between agencies is vital. Fusion centers developed around the law enforcement community, which has led to an information-sharing network that is exclusive. Non-law enforcement agencies such as Fire, EMS and Public Health that are charged with preparing for and responding to major incidents need the exchange of information as well. This thesis identifies several components that affect knowledge transfer. The human elements of Relationships, Trust, Megacommunities, Governance, and Leadership form the basis for successful information sharing networks. On this base, the technical components of the information-sharing network such as Standard Operating Procedures, Technology Standards, and Interoperability can be built."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Dulin, Jeffrey M.
2009-03
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Pandemic Pendulum: A Critical Analysis of Federal and State Preparedness for a Pandemic Event
From the thesis abstract: "This paper explores pandemic planning efforts across federal and state jurisdictions and how the absence of collaboration could have major consequences upon the population of the United States. How adequate are state and federal pandemic plans, and what must be done nationally to address common shortfalls? The methodology used a hybrid approach by combining a secondary analysis of available data with a modified case study approach. Analyzing the individual state plans and HHS' Pandemic Influenza Plan revealed common deficiencies, and disclosed distinct functional areas where stringent collaboration across multiple jurisdictions and functional areas would mitigate the deficiencies and provide a blueprint for potential development into an all-hazards national catastrophe plan. This resultant comprehensive plan would provide a solid template for all stakeholders to use in further development of their individual plans, and additionally provide a mechanism to propagate proactive planning efforts among international disaster preparedness partners."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Foley, John R.
2009-03
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Transformation of the FBI to Meet the Domestic Intelligence Needs of the United States
"In this thesis, the author presents an analysis of the challenges which confronted the United States government and the intelligence community after September 11, 2001 and examines some of the criticisms of government agency action, specifically the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the years prior to the terrorist attacks on the homeland. The author provides a historical overview of the FBI prior to September 11, 2001 and then discusses both the transformational challenges and successes encountered by the FBI post 9/11 in an effort to create a predictive intelligence capability within the agency while maintaining its current statutory responsibilities as the nation's primary federal investigative and law enforcement agency. The thesis examines both military transformational processes, as well as the British Model of Domestic Intelligence, and provides recommendations relevant to the ongoing and strategic transformational efforts by the FBI."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Smith, Eric B.
2009-03
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Instruments of National Power: Achieving the Strategic Advantage in a Changing World
"This thesis employs the historical method to illustrate that the central aim of U.S. basic national security policy and strategy is and has been to achieve and maintain the core national interests -- ensure the physical security of the nation, the nation's values, and the nation's economic prosperity -- and core desired end state -- provide for the enduring security for the American people -- by exerting the full spectrum and reach of its instruments of national power in peace and in war. To accomplish this, U.S. national security policy and strategy must dispose of the artificial walls currently separating its foundations and realign and resynchronize the capabilities resident in its instruments of national power. Doing so will enable the U.S. to achieve the strategic advantage. In sum, this thesis illustrates that national security encompasses homeland defense and security and that the current architecture is counterproductive because destabilizes and retards the capabilities, including the "reach," of the instruments of national by creating unnecessary friction and competition for resources between them and their proponents and denigrating their capabilities to achieve the strategic advantage. Absent a secure homeland, there is no national security and no strategic advantage."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Mastapeter, Craig W.
2008-12
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287(G): Cross-Delegating State and Local Law Enforcement Officers with Federal Immigration Authority -- Homeland Security Remedy or Rue?
"As a result of the federal government's shortcomings in thwarting illegal immigration, state and local law enforcement agencies are now largely shouldering the problem of criminal activity associated with illegal immigration. Section 287(g) of the INA allows state and local police to actively participate in immigration enforcement, but has raised concerns about how to balance public safety with concerns of a 'chilling effect' on the immigrant community. This thesis surveyed current and prospective 287(g) participants in order to develop a model for voluntary local, state and federal immigration enforcement collaboration. The proposed model confines immigration enforcement to a small group of select officers representing agencies that volunteer based on the needs of their communities; ICE agents would be active participants. The enforcement would target serious crimes that support illegal immigration such as alien smuggling, fraudulent documents, transnational gang activity and drug trafficking. Enforcement efforts would be supplemented by community outreach and efforts to mitigate the chilling effect that deters many state and local police from engaging in immigration enforcement."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Lines, Johnathan L.
2008-12
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Empowering Children to Lead Change: Incorporating Preparedness Curricula in the K-12 Educational System
"A combination of both man-made and natural disasters in recent years has revitalized the concept of civil preparedness and defense in the United States. During the State of the Union Address in 2002, President George W. Bush announced the creation of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Citizen Corps, a component of the USA Freedom Corps initiative developed shortly after 9/11. Additionally, FEMA launched the 'Are You Ready?' campaign to provide individuals, families and communities in-depth preparedness information and training, and the American Red Cross developed its own educational disaster preparedness program designed to coincide with the daily threat level. While the various programs include several common themes including special emphasis on disaster preparedness for children, they lack promotion, visibility, standardization and coordination. Empowering children to lead change by teaching families and other citizens is one possible methodology to enhance visibility and inspire participation in such programs. This thesis explores pros and cons of historical and current citizen preparedness campaigns and K-12 preparedness curriculums [sic], other country approaches to citizen preparedness, elements of successful preparedness programs, Homeland Security stakeholder benefits, potential arguments against implementation, and provides criteria for successful K-12 curricula."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Gustafson, Teresa S.
2009-03
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Transforming Counterterrorism Training in the FBI: Preserving Institutional Memory and Enhancing Knowledge Management
From the thesis abstract: "The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) remains committed to working seamlessly with its international, federal, state and local partners to counter terrorism, the number one priority of the FBI. In order to more effectively equip personnel to meet and counter the ever-evolving threat, it is critical that inefficient practices that cause counterterrorism practitioners to 'recreate the wheel' are quickly transformed to promote the most efficient counterterrorism knowledge management, knowledge transfer, and training practices available. Lessons learned through both formalized training and on-the-job experience must be quickly leveraged to aid broader sectors of the FBI and partner communities in order to promote streamlined operations in combating terrorism while countering inefficient knowledge management. This research identifies and analyzes the knowledge management deficit in counterterrorism training, while examining the core influences of organizational mindset and individual mindsets, the importance of trust, and the misnomer of 'best practices' that must be acknowledged and overcome. Focused on the establishment of Counterterrorism Mobile Education Teams to drive the enhanced infusion of tacit counterterrorism knowledge, this research culminates in the delineation of a multi-faceted strategy comprised of recommendations to target remaining counterterrorism training gaps, to strengthen homeland security collaboration, and to combat terrorism."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Paulling, Kristen Cederholm
2009-03
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Strengthening Hospital Surge Capacity in the Event of Explosive or Chemical Terrorist Attacks
"Medical Care is a Public Trust. Americans expect that hospitals and healthcare providers will be available and prepared to care for their every medical need. Yet the medical community is severely challenged daily to care for the influx of patients to its Emergency Departments with current resources. Healthcare is ill-prepared to meet community needs in the event of a mass casualty event from a terrorist attack using weapons of mass destruction. This research explores the premise that clinicians have skills either current or remote that can be renewed and enhanced to provide an immediate life-saving response team in the event of explosive or chemical events. The research identified that the medical community has the building blocks available awaiting the guidance, organization and direction to orient them into a disaster medical capability that will improve preparedness and response. This thesis proposes a strategy to leverage the clinician personnel assets already in place to improve preparedness. A transformational approach is necessary to insure healthcare preparedness. Government planners must understand the challenges and current limitations of emergency medical response and partner with the healthcare to enhance preparedness. The United States medical community must understand the realities of terrorism and war at home."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
McInerney, Joan
2009-03
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Increasing Information Sharing among Independent Police Departments
"The events of September 11, 2001, clearly demonstrated the need for law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels to increase their capacity to share information with one another. The 9/11 Commission asserted that the World Trade Center attacks occurred in part because law enforcement was unable to connect the dots, which may have provided the opportunity to disrupt the terrorists' mission. However, upon reflection and further investigation it seems probable that prior to the attacks there simply was not enough information [dots] to raise concern or suspicion about that fateful day. One can argue that the need for accurate information shared in a timely manner is the lifeblood of any agency responsible for defending the home front. This dynamic is further enhanced when municipal law enforcement agencies exist within a large urban area such as Los Angeles County (CA), which is a target rich environment. Using a quantitative analysis this thesis examines information and intelligence sharing networks, data collection methodologies, common technical platforms (voice and data), and financial considerations toward increasing information sharing among independent police departments and suggests methods to improve information sharing capabilities."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Sanchez, Phillip L.
2009-03
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Do Good Fences Still Make Good Neighbors?-Integrating Force Protection with Homeland Security on Army Installations
"Army installations have been uniquely affected by the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) and homeland security initiatives as a result of the attacks on September 11, 2001. Unfortunately, most have not done enough in coordinating and integrating their antiterrorism plans with the crisis response and consequence management plans of their adjacent civilian municipalities. This thesis argues that fences and guards are not enough to protect Army installations against terrorist attack, or against any other natural or man-made disaster, nor do installations have the wherewithal to respond effectively on their own should disaster strike. Doctrine is clear, and regulations and policy have been published guiding the Army (and other military services) in providing Civil Support to state and local authorities during times of crisis; but what is less clear, or more precisely, non-existent, is the doctrine regarding how Army installations would receive and integrate support from local and state officials in response to disasters occurring on the installation. Now more than ever, Army installations require municipal support to effectively respond to terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and accidents. Indeed, Army installations must reach across their perimeter fences and embrace municipal partners in integrating force protection with homeland security."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Burdick, David S.
2009-03
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Burning Need to Know: The Use of Open Source Intelligence in the Fire Service
"In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, the fire service found itself on the forefront of the war on terror. The people within the fire service began to realize they needed to share intelligence information with other government agencies in order to protect firefighters, and their community. At the federal level, the National Information Sharing Strategy recognized that first responders are critical to the prevention of terrorism and that an effective flow of intelligence information must be established between federal, state, local agencies. Yet, the fire service has little experience in the field of intelligence and much of the intelligence available may not be specific or useful to the fire service. The local fire department is faced with the task of analyzing what a particular piece of information means to that department. Only the local department knows its procedures and locale well enough to accomplish this critical task. This thesis seeks to assist local fire departments in building systems and training personnel to exploit open source intelligence for their unique needs. Using information gleaned from interviews with experienced intelligence people, the intelligence cycle is discussed including requirements, collection, analysis, and dissemination in light of the needs of the fire service."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Robson, Thomas A.
2009-03
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Critical Accountability: Preventing and Interdicting Terrorist Activity in the U.S. by Effectively Utilizing State and Local Law Enforcement
"The events of 9-11 illustrated to U.S. government and law enforcement agencies the critical need for definitive, cooperative and accountable gathering and sharing of intelligence for terrorist interdiction/prevention. Despite billions spent annually for this endeavor, huge gaps in communication sharing and accountability remain. This thesis illustrates the realities of these current issues facing homeland security, and proposes a conceptual model: Homeland Security Regional Cooperation Areas (HSRCAs), based on proven, cooperative, drug-interdiction model programs that effectively utilize resources, training, and establish inter-agency cooperation and accountability. Soft Systems Methodology was used to study current realities and generate solutions for human factors, which have previously created the challenges in agency and program integration. The HSRCA model proposes specific performance management processes, as well as governance by administrative members (responsible for daily state and local law enforcement operations throughout the country). Such administrators placed in a collaborative environment are able to implement effective programs while satisfying federal objectives, within budget. HSRCAs will utilize state resources and existing fusion centers for shared regional communication, critical infrastructure protection and widespread training. These activities--easily incorporated into daily activities of law enforcement officers--empowers them with critical tools and information to interdict and defeat terrorist activities."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Squires, Keith D.
2009-03
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Increasing Capacity & Changing the Culture: Volunteer Management in Law Enforcement
"In the post--September 11 world, law enforcement agencies are struggling to protect their communities from the threat of global terrorism, and also preparing for and responding to natural and manmade disasters. The demands on municipal law enforcement agencies have never been greater. Today, more than ever, it is clear that volunteers can play a fundamental role in augmenting a department's homeland security efforts. Are there best practices when incorporating volunteers into a law enforcement agency and how does law enforcement maximize its volunteer effort? This thesis set out to answer the question: How does a designated Volunteer Coordinator impact mission performance in a law enforcement agency's volunteer program? Furthermore, the research will address the role of volunteers in law enforcement, including how volunteers can augment an agency's homeland security strategic plan. Research included a survey, literature review, and case study. Although the research and survey data do not provide incontrovertible proof that a Volunteer Coordinator is a necessity to a volunteer program, there is sufficient evidence to show that a volunteer program is more effective when properly managed and led."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Cayson, Donna M.
2009-03
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Homeland Security Collaboration: Catch Phrase or Preeminent Organizational Construct?
From the thesis abstract: "Since September 11, 2001, numerous documents have been produced by various governmental agencies, and the private sector, addressing homeland security issues. Many of these publications identify a need to create multi-discipline, multi-agency cooperative environments at all levels of government and within the private sector in order to resolve homeland security problems. Although these cooperative environments are deemed collaboration, a common definition of collaboration is missing from the literature. More importantly, also missing from the literature is guidance on how to achieve collaboration. This project identifies a common, measurable definition for collaboration. The research identified existing organizations that address homeland security issues that do not meet the definition of collaboration but are successful in addressing current problems. Conclusions of this project include: 1.) Organizations can effectively manage homeland security issues although they have not reached true collaboration 2.) Collaboration is the desired organizational structure as the most efficient organizational structure dealing with homeland security concerns. Future homeland security publications need to include a definition of collaboration and guidance to achieve it."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Kay, Raymond L., II
2009-09
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Collecting and Connecting the Dots: Leveraging Technology to Enhance the Collection of Information and the Dissemination of Intelligence
From the thesis abstract: "Developing a national strategy to effectively coordinate information sharing and the subsequent dissemination of intelligence is paramount in domestic efforts to thwart future acts of terror and suppress crime. Past failures illustrate the need for strong and trustworthy partnerships not only between federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement, but also with relevant partners in the private sector, foreign allies and other government agencies. Standardizing operations and better utilizing technology will improve the efficacy of this effort and will draw upon the domestic law enforcement community as key players in this endeavor. The findings and recommendations proffered in this research identify policies and practices that effectively integrate information sharing into all aspects of policing and provide for technological solutions to enhance capabilities for collecting information and disseminating intelligence. Integrating intelligence led-policing into existing community policing strategies also illustrates the utility of both public and private partners in this effort. Ultimately, the enhanced collection of information and dissemination of intelligence will greatly augment the ability of law enforcement and the myriad of relevant stakeholders to prevent both crime and acts of terrorism."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Burke, Patrick A.
2009-09
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Winning the Battle of Ideas through Individual Resiliency: A Multi-dimensional Approach for Countering Radicalization in the Homeland
"To defeat the terrorist threat facing the U.S., the 9/11 Commission recommended a balanced strategy to attack the terrorists and prevent recruitment, while protecting against future attack. A review of the national strategies related to counterterrorism and homeland security shows they do not provide a balanced approach. Specifically, they fail to counter the factors influencing individuals to conduct terrorism. Disruption of the radicalization process, becomes more significant, when, considering the threat is no longer just of foreign origins, it is increasingly from within. Adding to this dilemma, evidence shows terrorist networks are becoming less centralized, and placing greater emphasis on individual actions. Based on the evolving threat, this thesis explores what strategy offers the most balanced approach. To answer this question, an exploratory study was conducted to define the threat and causes of radicalization. The current U.S. strategies were then evaluated to determine if they adequately addressed the research findings. Additionally, international approaches were analyzed to determine if any lessons learned could be incorporated into a U.S. strategy. The recommendation is to complement existing strategies with a counterradicalization strategy. The proposed multi-dimensional solution offers several options to counter radicalization: traditional and nontraditional educational programs, outreach programs, and community involvement."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Sampson, Kirk J.
2009-09
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How to Prepare the National Guard's Leadership for Successful Venture in Homeland Security
From the thesis abstract: "The National Guard (NG) will be the first military force on disaster scenes in the United States. If the NG is to respond as efficiently as possible, the NG leadership must be educated on preparation for and response to disasters. Research questions used were: how to overcome the gap in disaster-response knowledge, and what are the topics on which the Department of Defense (DoD) should specifically educate the NG leadership? What has caused this education gap and how can the NG leadership overcome it? Survey and interview responses revealed that gaps exist in what the NG knows about the state response process and knowledge of what the civilians expect from the military. A review of the existing education opportunities available to the NG showed that none covered the state process. Using the military decision-making process, courses of action were developed to correct this education shortfall. Recommendations included the development of a one-week course to address the state response process, DoD acknowledgment of the civil support mission, and the assigned and funded ability of the NG to educate and train on the civil support missions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Amundson, Randy J.
2009-09
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Protecting Small Communities through Domestic Policing: Adopting an Information Analysis System to Recognize Potential Terrorist Activity
"Throughout history, the role of law enforcement has never been more demanding than it is today. In the aftermath of 9/11, local law enforcement agencies have recognized the need to develop new capabilities to protect their communities. Due to the evolving nature of terrorism, public safety organizations must modify the way they respond to crime and acts of terrorism. This report seeks to contribute to the debate among law enforcement organizations regarding how to counter the increasing threat of terrorism. The aim of this document is to assist policymakers by providing an alternate response strategy to the growing criminal and terrorist nexus. Due to limited resources, the challenges of implementing a locally driven information system for police agencies are considerable. Outcome-based policing is a promising methodology that is proactive and information driven. It is a comprehensive strategy that addresses domestic policing and homeland security concerns affecting public safety. This thesis examines the challenge small communities have in combating threats of terrorism through shared intelligence. As a final point, this report outlines how the threat of terrorism and potential terrorist activity has redefined police operations and its impact on small jurisdictions."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Perry, Donnie
2009-09
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Privacy Protection Standards for the Information Sharing Environment
"Created in response to findings of the 9/11 Commission concerning the lack of information sharing as a primary factor in the failure to stop the September 11, 2001, attacks, the Information Sharing Environment (ISE) was mandated by the Intelligence Reform and Terrorist Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA). The ISE was intended to build on existing information sharing systems and promote increased information sharing through the creation of a collaborative culture among a diverse group of participants. Another goal of the ISE is to protect information privacy. ISE efforts to meet the goal of information privacy protection are stymied by a lack of uniform privacy standards that are equally applicable to all ISE participants. The thesis compares two policy options--voluntarily adopted mandatory standards and federally imposed mandatory standards--to the status quo system of voluntary guidelines. These policy options are evaluated in terms of their effect on collaboration and information sharing, their constitutionality, their consistency and enforceability in application, and political acceptability. Based on projected relative outcomes, this thesis recommends that the ISE adopt a privacy protection system consisting of voluntary standards that, once adopted, become mandatory in application."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Holmstrup, Mark A.
2009-09
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Radicalization Within the Somali-American Diaspora: Countering the Homegrown Terrorist Threat
"In 2008, Minneapolis resident Shirwa Ahmed became the first U.S. suicide bomber after he detonated his explosivesladen vehicle in front of a government compound in Hargesa, Somaliland. Ahmed's transformation from an average American teenager to an Islamic jihadist was gradual and complex. This thesis will examine how Ahmed, and other Somali-Americans, morphed into Salafi jihadists. Through interviews with law enforcement, social services providers, and homeland security officials, the cultural, religious, and assimilative traits existing within this unique diaspora community that have affected the trajectory of the radicalization of its members will be examined. Factors such as historic clan identity, religious pragmatism, pastoralism, and Somali-nationalistic identity generally discourage the adoption of transnational movements like global jihadism by first generation Somali émigrés. An in-depth analysis of the profiles of Somali- American travelers suggests that Somali youth are less like their parents and are more similar to their American and European-Muslim counterparts. Thus, they are a virtual 'tabula rasa' upon which jihadist recruiters may not only write but also erase much of the youths' inherent clannish identity and cultural traits. These newly indoctrinated youths rush to embrace American culture but are torn between two diametrically opposed identities. The resulting tension leaves a gap ready to be filled by Salafi Islam."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Mulligan, Scott E.
2009-12
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Leveraging Successful Collaborative Processes to Improve Performance Outcomes in Large-Scale Event Planning: Super Bowl, A Planned Homeland Security Event
"Super Bowls are one of the world's premier sporting events, bringing hundreds of thousands of event participants, vendors, and fans to host cities. They are high-stakes, planned events that require the same elements of focus, all-hazard orientation, coordination, trust, collaboration, and unity of purpose that the homeland security environment requires in order to achieve the goals set forth in the Presidential Directives. This thesis considers the predictable performance activities in the planning process that lead to predictable performance outcomes. Large-event planners and operators can benefit from understanding these activities and implementing preventive steps that lead to more desirable event outcomes. By establishing a cooperative and highly participative SB planning process, the majority of operational conflicts (whether cultural or technical) will be uncovered in a controlled way and lead toward more predictable performance outcomes."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Shannon, Thomas
2010-03
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Interagency Modeling Atmospheric Assessment Center Local Jurisdiction: IMAAC Operations Framework
"The Interagency Modeling Atmospheric Assessment Center (IMAAC) is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) interagency working group responsible to create atmospheric air plume dispersion model predictions for designated emergencies. When 'activated' IMAAC is comprised of representatives from eight federal agencies with the National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center (NARAC) serving as the interim host. The Center concept was designed to eliminate contradictory plume predictions during weapons of mass of destruction (WMD) and hazardous materials incidents. IMAAC plume predictions represent the federal position during such emergencies. IMAAC resources are also available to assist local jurisdictions during incidents requiring 'federal coordination' as cited by the DHS National Response Framework. An operations framework model has been devised in this thesis to address ongoing plume modeling issues between IMAAC and first responders in need of fast and accurate plume predictions during accidental or intentional spills, releases, or discharges of WMD or hazardous materials into the environment. The proposed operations framework model is designed to address related obstacles facing first responders including IMAAC Web-based and stand-alone models accessibility, incident 'reach back' support, coordinated procedures, training, exercises, and funding."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Center for Homeland Defense and Security; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Dadosky, Edward J.
2010-03
