On Alert for Suspicious Activity After 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

COMMENTARY | Like all Americans, I was shocked and horrified as I watched the 9/11 terrorist attacks unfolding. I was and continue to be devastated by the loss of innocent American lives.

I was amazed when it was announced that the hijackers of the 9/11 terrorist attacks were members of sleeper cells. I didn't even know what a sleeper cell was. But I soon learned that a sleeper cell consists of a group of people who slip into U.S. borders and live among American citizens. They often have entered the country illegally. Members of sleeper cells hate America and Americans. Although they intermingle within our society and generally live quiet lives, they are always prepared to initiate terrorist attacks at a moment's notice.

Ever since the 9/11 terrorist attacks and learning about sleeper cells, I have become more aware of the actions of anonymous strangers that I may happen to run into in my own community. Since members of sleeper cells could be living anywhere, in big cities or small towns, they could be living in my city or in your city.

Here are some examples of some things that I have become more conscious of since the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

- I have seen people in department stores and Army surplus stores stocking up on very large quantities of things like flashlights, batteries, MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), duct tape, bottled water, waterproof matches, knives, ammunition, goggles, and similar products. Are they just adventuresome individuals planning an extended camping trip or are they members of sleeper cells preparing for terrorist attacks?

- I have met people who have several storage units, sheds or garages loaded with various pieces of equipment and personal items. Why do they need so much storage space? Are they just hoarders with not enough space or are they members of sleeper cells?

- I have heard of individuals who use anonymous, "throw away" cell phones instead of buying their own cell phone from one of the reputable cell phone providers. Is it just that they cannot afford to buy a phone with a calling plan or are they members of sleeper cells seeking to remain anonymous?

- I have had workers come to my home -- landscapers, plumbers and electricians -- who insist that they be paid in cash for their services. Do they just not have enough credit history to have bank accounts or are they "living under the radar" as members of sleeper cells?

- Occasionally I have seen individuals throwing large plastic bags or boxes into trash bins located in the parking lots of a stores, restaurants or parks. Don't they have trash cans at their own house? Are they really disposing their trash or could they be members of sleeper cells placing explosive devices of some sort in populated areas?

On the 10-year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorists attacks, I continue to be more aware of my surroundings, as I think all Americans should be. Of course, I don't believe that all of the above examples are members of sleeper cells. But they could be. Sleeper cells could be anywhere. One of them could even be in your community.