We Must Remain Vigilant

The Boston Marathon bombing on April 15, terrible in its impact and cruelty, is a reminder to Americans that complacency is not an option in the age of terror.

The war against terrorism goes on all over the globe. Its battlefields and potential battlefields are everywhere.

It is a relief that the FBI and Boston police tracked down the perpetrators of the Boston bombing. But we can't forget the cost. Four people are dead. Scores of others were injured, many of their lives altered permanently

And now we must find out why two residents of Massachusetts decided to attack innocent Americans. The investigation may force a re-examination of the nation's strategies and tactics in battling violent radicals.

This demonstrates again that the United States has no fixed front line in its war on terror, even more than 11 years after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

The front lines can suddenly shift, as they may now be shifting to "soft targets," places not heavily guarded, such as sporting events.

The leaders of al-Qaida and other radical organizations have already taken note of sporting events and "soft targets" as places to aim their hatred, rage and murderous intent.

An al-Qaida manual in the form of an Internet magazine has recommended attacking such targets.

This doesn't mean fear should rule these events, forcing major changes for spectators. But it makes sense for event organizers and the police to ramp up security and prepare for new threats.

Americans have always known that eternal vigilance is the price of liberty. This adage is especially appropriate for the modern age of political violence and terror.

Terrorists and deranged individuals will target anyone. We can live with this fact, but we must take appropriate precautions — precautions that are consistent with our constitutional liberties and that do not unnecessarily impede our activities.

America will not give in to hatred and violence. The ongoing war will be won with a mixture of resolve and constant vigilance.

REPRINTED FROM THE NORTHWEST FLORIDA DAILY NEWS

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