Graphic by USAG Benelux Public Affairs.

Antiterrorism Message: Remain vigilant this summer

CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- The U.S. Army has released the 2019 Summer Vigilance Message. As stated in the text, “Extremist inspired by Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) ideology remain the primary Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) threat to Army personnel worldwide."

Although the physical caliphate has largely been defeated, the threat environment remains unchanged as ISIS messaging still resonates amongst its supporters. The visible shift from spectacular, mass-casualty count and symbolic attacks to a focus on more practical small-scale widespread assaults against public targets has increased the possibility that Soldiers and their families may become victims of a terrorist attack.

The USAG Benelux Antiterrorism Office is asking people to assist our security professionals across the Benelux in extending their eyes and ears to report incidents which might precede terrorist attack preparation or in-the-act of target surveillance.

Anyone reading or watching the news has heard the stories of how worldwide intelligence leaders are concerned about the potential for an increase in terrorist activity here in Western Europe. Although not specifically directed at U.S. personnel, many large cities can and will have marches and demonstrations throughout the summer.

If in the vicinity of one of these events, use common sense, stay away from the area of the protest, research before you go, and check the U.S. State Department's website, EuroNews channel, local channels and any source you can think of to educate yourself and your family.

Please report suspicious activity when you see it. Our office is asked all the time “What makes a person suspicious?” Actions listed below are key indicators for suspicious actions:

  • People or vehicles “who don’t seem to belong” near the installation, major event location, city/federal buildings using a camera, video equipment or a timing device and map.
  • People taking notes or asking questions regarding infrastructure of the installation, city, government facilities, major event locations and historical places.
  • People you don’t know asking you what you do on the military installation and other questions such as "What does it take to get onto the base?" and "how hard is it to get onto the base?"
  • People possessing or using night vision devices, global positioning systems near the installation, city, government buildings, landmarks, railways, shopping zones or historical structures.
  • People parking, standing, or loitering in the same area day after day (night after night) with no apparent reasonable explanation.

If observed near the installations, record your observations as best as you can. Commit them to memory if necessary. Most importantly, do not hesitate!

If you see something suspicious near the garrison, record your observations as best as you can. Don’t hesitate to contact the military police:

*If observed in your local community, report it to the nearest police station by calling 112.

For questions or concerns regarding the USAG Benelux’s antiterrorism program, please call:

Story by USAG Benelux Antiterrorism Office