Fort Drum asking north country residents to partner in vigilance

FORT DRUM — Being vigilant for suspicious activity is an act that goes beyond the post’s gates.

“It’s a north country issue,” said John P. Simard, a post antiterrorism officer. “The community has a huge role.”

A civilian near Fort Hood, Texas, foiled a possible attack last month when he reported a suspicious man in Kileen, Texas, to police. He was found to be an AWOL soldier and police discovered bomb-making material in a motel room he had rented off post.

Eyes and ears are just as valuable in the Fort Drum area, Mr. Simard said, adding that anyone who sees any suspicious activities should call the anonymous tip-line 774-8477 (TIPS).