Counterterrorism: Policy, National Response, and Reactive Military Response.

Terrorism is a violent act in which innocent people are hurt. There are problems in defining the different forms of terrorism, but political factors are always present in the motive for such violence. Following the definitions of the forms of terrorism will be an explanation of the policy which the U.S. is presently following to combat terrorism. Once the policy is explained, the possible responses which the U.S. can initiate are then discussed. Following this general response overview, the focus will be on the military response capabilities and the organizations to be used in the reactive counter-terrorist role. When an immediate hostage danger situation occurs, decisions on how to respond must be made quickly. The risk involved in this type of counter-terrorist operation is very high and does not allow for indecision or mistakes. The proper chain of command must be understood by all concerned. During terrorist acts in foreign countries, military commanders, beginning with the local base commanders, all the way up the chain of command to the U.S. Ambassador must understand the procedures to be followed. This paper will explain those procedures and determine if the regulations and procedures are adequate to handle future hostage situations.