In a strange turn of events, Foss set off the metal detectors at the Phoenix airport and was frisked. The security workers found two sharp objects in Foss' jacket pocket-the Medal of Honor itself and a small nail file with the Medal of Honor Club insignia. Undoubtedly, Foss meant no harm in trying to bring these items aboard the plane. Who would pack the Congressional Medal of Honor in a duffel and risk having it lost?
Since the incident, Foss has expressed his frustration at the situation and many reporters and journalists have listened sympathetically. But how can a group of airport security workers know Foss' distinguished background? They cannot and should not be expected to. Even if they did, Foss should not be granted special immunity because of his distinguished record. Foss was delayed and inconvenienced; he even claims that he was harassed. But he, like the rest of the passengers on his plane, is still alive. In a time of a national security crisis, Foss arrived safely at West Point, none the worse for wear. He escaped the fate that has been met by numerous innocent travelers. Poor General Foss?
No. Airport security should be race-blind. This white American war hero was detained and forced to undergo a thorough examination just like anyone else. Americans should be overjoyed that the current security crisis has not made us so paranoid of Arabs and other minorities that all non-minorities are allowed free passage. Now that terrorist groups have realized that Arabs will be more closely scrutinized, it would be more efficacious to screen all travelers with the greatest precision. Terrorist groups may now realize that it is in their best interests to hire someone who would never be suspected as a terrorist to carry out their plots against the United States.
As a frequent flyer, I welcome greater airport security, even if it comes at the expense of my time or patience. In fact, I have been somewhat disappointed at the security at small airports such as Bradley International in Hartford. I have been able to go through the throngs of security guards and metal detectors without ever having been stopped, questioned or frisked. My disappointment does not stem from some masochistic desire for torturous delays or endless searches, but from concern for my own safety.
It makes me feel a little queasy when I think of how easily I pass through this supposedly beefed-up security. I don't care if I am a young, white college student. Just because I have a Gateway laptop and an Amherst sweatshirt does not mean that I am not a terrorist. Today, who really knows?