By LOLITA C. BALDOR
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) - The U.S. military has increased the threat level at bases across North America. Officials say the incremental boost will likely mean heightened vigilance and more random bag or vehicle checks.
The baseline level went from A to B, although most military installations - including the Pentagon - were already at a slightly higher level of protection than level A. There are four levels, A through D.
Army Col. Steve Warren says the increase was not triggered by a specific event. He says it was due to a generally heightened threat environment, which would include the recent terror threat and attempted attack surrounding a provocative cartoon contest in Texas.
The alert level was approved by Adm. Bill Gortney, head of U.S. Northern Command.
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Fort Hood released the following statement about the increased threat level:
"It would be inappropriate for us to discuss specific security policies or procedures. Having said that, we continue to remain vigilant and will adjust our security measures as necessary to ensure the safety of all personnel on Fort Hood," said Tom Rheinlander, director of Fort Hood Public Affairs.
