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DC Ups Defenses for Inauguration

No specific threat, says general in detailing January plans

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Dec 17, 2008 1:57 PM CST

(Newser) – The Pentagon plans a dramatic expansion of the military presence in Washington to coincide with Barack Obama’s Jan. 20 inauguration, the Los Angeles Times reports. About 4,000 National Guardsmen and 7,500 active-duty troops will augment local police and security forces, while air patrols will be increased. No threats have been reported, but “it is prudent to plan for the possibility,” the commanding general said.

“It would make news for a terrorist element or rogue element to interrupt that event,” said Victor Renuart, the Air Force general in charge of North American security. The Secret Service is heading up security preparations for the event, but will have the trained troops on hand to respond to medical emergencies and possible chemical attack.

With the White House in the background, workers continue to build the Presidential inauguration reviewing stand.
With the White House in the background, workers continue to build the Presidential inauguration reviewing stand.   (AP Photo)
The inaugural platform.
The inaugural platform.   (AP Photo)
Preparations for the Inauguration.
Preparations for the Inauguration.   (AP Photo)
Workers construct the inaugural platform at the west front of the Capitol in Washington.
Workers construct the inaugural platform at the west front of the Capitol in Washington.   (AP Photo)
US Air Force F-22 fighters.
US Air Force F-22 fighters.   (AP Photo)
A group of Air Force F-22 Raptors are prepared for flight operations at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Va.
A group of Air Force F-22 Raptors are prepared for flight operations at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Va.   (AP Photo)
Air Force F-22 Raptors.
Air Force F-22 Raptors.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 2 of 2 comments
Shannonals
Dec 19, 2008 1:14 AM CST
Wise Tactical move by the Secret Service.
Zebraone
Dec 17, 2008 2:06 AM CST
They had better! ~~~ SS better hire some more 'civiboys' too!~~~~~~ Is all that cahain link fence to keep us out or IN!~~~

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