For Release: Immediate  Date: October 5, 2001

Renee Hoffman Phone:(919) 733-5027 (Ext. 231)

RALEIGH -- Members of the N.C. National Guard begin deploying to airports around the state today as part of their mission to augment security at commercial airports. In the initial phase, security team leaders will meet with airport officials to coordinate the final details of the operation. The traveling public can expect to see National Guard members at airport security checkpoints beginning as early as this weekend.

"The Guard is honored to be asked to assist our nation in this very difficult time," said MG William E. Ingram Jr., Adjutant General of the National Guard. "We'll be teaming up with airport security staff members to make sure the public understands it's safe to fly."

Approximately 90 National Guard members received training from the Federal Aviation Administration at Ft. Bragg on Wednesday and Thursday of this week in preparation for beginning the mission around the state. The Guard members will provide an armed and highly visible deterrent at 12 airports providing commercial service in North Carolina. The 12 airports are Albert J. Ellis Airport (Richlands), Asheville Regional Airport, Charlotte/Douglas International Airport, Craven County Regional Airport, Fayetteville Regional Airport, Hickory Regional Airport, Kinston Regional Jetport, Moore County Airport, Piedmont Triad International Airport, Pitt-Greenville Airport, Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and Wilmington International Airport. Among their duties will be such things as passenger and baggage screening.

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