“There are other things service members (and Americans traveling abroad) can and should do to ensure they do not become targets while in European countries.”
As news breaks of yet another terror attack, it occurs to me how normal this sort of news has become. It’s gotten to the point where it is no longer a question of if there will be another attack, but when. Which country will be hit next?
My family and I were stationed in Germany over 10 years ago. Part of the appeal of a military assignment overseas — Europe in particular — is the element of travel. It isn’t anything to take a long weekend and visit places like Paris, Rome, and even London. When we were given the opportunity to return, we took the chance to go home again — in a sense.
Upon arriving, we noticed the landscape had changed slightly. There were a ton of refugees, but this did not present any red flags because Germany was a very diverse country over a decade ago as well. After our arrival, the terrorist attacks that occurred in Germany were surreal. This beautiful country that boasts amazing beer and beautiful castles had come under attack, despite welcoming refugees with open arms.
Our personal experience with refugees hasn’t been bad. The only experience we have had that resembled anything negative was when we were approached by a man as we dined outside of a bistro. He gave me a flower and asked for a donation in exchange in order to care for the baby he was pushing in a stroller. While I recognized this as a man using a child for sympathy to gain money, part of me wouldn’t have been able to sleep at night had we refused. It somehow didn’t feel right to be dining at a nice establishment in front of people in need without sharing something. I think this is where many forget to draw the line between wanting to be human and remaining vigilant.
As Europe finds itself under attack and foreign policy dominates headlines in the United States, there are several American citizens currently living in Europe sponsored by the Armed Forces who face the same threats as the citizens of our host nations. While we are encouraged not to wear clothing identifying us as Americans off post, it doesn’t take a genius to spot an American service member, especially males.
I never realized how limited I would feel not being able to wear sports gear, brands exclusive to the United States, or even clothing from locations in the United States. These are safety measures we take to remain proactive in the current terrorist threat climate occurring worldwide. There are other things service members (and Americans traveling abroad) can and should do to ensure they do not become targets while in European countries.
Europe is famous for pedestrian shopping zones, and these areas get incredibly busy. There are also endless festivals and celebrations, especially in the summertime. This has brought everyone to a heightened sense of awareness. Large crowds call for the need to constantly scan and create a plan of escape in case something happens.
While there isn’t an entire ocean separating me from the horrendous terrorist attacks going on in Europe, my family has made the decision to continue living. No one will strike enough fear in me to keep me from enjoying my second home. They also will not catch me with my guard down.
