Security at military installations in San Diego County and throughout the country was at a heightened level Monday in response to an increased terror risk nationwide, although no specific threats have been made.
At Camp Pendleton, the most visible impact from the increase in force protection condition levels was a longer than average wait to enter the facility.
Base Public Affairs Director Jason Johnston said delays were to be expected as gate personnel applied "more scrutiny to those visiting or coming onto the base."
Marines at the North County installation were also taking less visible security measures, although what those precautions entailed was not being made public, Johnston said.
On Friday, the commander of U.S. Northern Command raised the force protection level for all Department of Defense facilities in the continental United States from "Alpha" to "Bravo." Bravo status applies when an increased or more predictable threat of terrorist activity exists, according to the Department of Defense.
The so-called FPCON levels range from the general Alpha rank to "Delta," which takes effect as a terrorist attack is imminent or has just happened. Pentagon spokesman Army Col. Steve Warren said the elevated FPCON level meant more comprehensive checking of those entering the facilities and a heightened awareness of personnel, and could lead to more security on duty.
