Pack antiterrorism awareness into overseas travel plans

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — During the summer of 2017, my daughter was planning a trip to Germany and Spain to visit friends who were studying abroad. Of course, as her father — and having worked in the antiterrorism field most of my career — I was probably overly cautious and concerned for her safety.

I spent a lot of time with her, explaining the history of terrorist acts in those countries, the latest trends and tactics being used, and actions and precautions her and her friends should take to help ensure their safety. She was, probably like many people, very naïve about the dangers when traveling — especially overseas. She told me I was paranoid, everything would be fine, the threats weren’t that bad, etc.

Regardless, I made sure she was aware of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website and registered in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to better link up with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

On Aug. 17, 2017, terrorist attacks in Spain killed more than 10 people and injured more than 100 others. My daughter was back home in the U.S. when those attacks occurred. She had a great time visiting Germany and Spain with her friends, but she texted me after learning one of the horrific terrorist attacks took place in one of the same locations she had visited earlier that summer — she said, ‘Dad, you were right!!’

I believe the whole experience really opened her eyes to the importance of prior planning and precautions, being informed, and being aware of your surroundings. I wish I wasn’t right, but unfortunately, that is the reality of the world we live in today.

For Department of Defense personnel working on Fort Leonard Wood — to include service members, civilians and contractors working for the DOD — preparing for overseas travel, whether official or vacation, starts with FLW Form 3003, Foreign Travel Application.

The document — which is available via the unit antiterrorism officer and helps ensure all personnel receive the proper briefings and training prior to departing for foreign travel — must be completed and signed by the traveler, then sent to their supervisor, ATO and security manager for approval and signatures. Use of FLW Form 3003 is mandatory to document, track and maintain for all foreign travel — it must be maintained for two years.

Individual requirements for travel are based on the traveler’s status and their destination — they can be found in the DOD’s Foreign Clearance Guide.

Be aware that travel to certain countries requires theater clearances, country clearances, training requirements and other directed requirements. These clearances can take 30 days or more to process.

If you do decide to travel, make a plan for what to do if something goes wrong overseas — stay informed; stay connected; stay safe.

Call the AT Office at 573.563.5507, or speak with a unit-level AT representative, for more information on overseas travel requirements.