Regarding the story by Jon Hilkevitch and John Bebow, “Foreign visitors checked, (Page 1, Jan. 6)” I find the implication of outrageous security demands for foreign visitors overplayed.
I recently departed Munich International Airport and had my passport checked five times before reaching the gate. This caution is actually quite reassuring despite the “hassle.” If Germany had recently lost 3,000 people in a terrorist act, I would expect even more scrutiny. Travelers coming to our great country must understand our most recent requirements for pictures and fingerprints are merely safeguards for the American people who suffered such a great loss and expect another attempt at any time. Diligence from the Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs is in our best interests and should be encouraged from all citizens. If it were possible to replay the disaster of 9/11 daily, stories such as this one may still be written but would be disparaged by most Americans.
Remember the World Trade Center collapsing with thousands of fellow citizens dying and then consider your concern for the Brazilian officials accusation of “xenophobic” security measures.
Please remember beyond yesterday. Al Qaeda does!
