400 armed US SF going to 'work' the Olympics

[Nizark]

July 21, 2004


Pressured by U.S., Greece Will Allow Troops at Olympics
By RAYMOND BONNER and ANTHEE CARASSAVA


ATHENS, July 20 - Under intense pressure from the United States, Greece will allow 400 American Special Forces soldiers to be present at the Olympic Games next month under NATO auspices and will also permit American, Israeli and possibly British security officers to carry weapons, Greek and American officials said.


The delicate arrangements, which the officials say will not be formally acknowledged for fear of roiling anti-American sentiment, represent a significant departure from Olympic tradition, as well as from Greek law, which prohibits foreign personnel from carrying weapons within the country. Until now, the only nation known to have armed its security forces at the Olympics is Israel, whose agents have been carrying arms largely without prior approval from host countries since 1972, when Black September, a Palestinian group, killed Israeli athletes and officials in the Olympic Village in Munich.


In addition to the Special Forces, the agreements call for 100 armed American agents to be used largely as bodyguards for American athletes and dignitaries. The F.B.I. is also sending a hostage rescue team, as well as evidence-gathering and analysis personnel who will be pressed into service in the event of an attack. They, too, will be armed, said an American law enforcement official.


Despite the agreements, Greece and the United States are still in prickly negotiations over the rules that will govern the American security agents - how many there will be, what kind of weapons they can carry and when they can use them, and where they can operate, American and Greek officials said.


"I am certain we are going to be able to carry our guns," an American official said. "I'm not sure what we're going to own up to." The Greeks had made a number of other concessions on security matters that the Americans will not admit to, he said. "We must do this in a way that gives the Greeks their national pride."


The issue of American agents' being allowed to carry guns is extremely delicate here. Feelings about national sovereignty are strong, and the news media harshly criticize any government that makes concessions to the United States, or is seen to be compromising Greek sovereignty. The Greek government, which continues to state publicly that no weapons will be allowed, has also been worried that if it is publicly known that United States forces are going to be carrying weapons, other countries will demand similar rights. The Greeks have had serious discussions with other European countries, principally Germany and Spain, Greek and European officials said. Both have now agreed not to send armed escorts.


Intelligence agencies have not picked up information that Al Qaeda is planning an attack at the Games, officials from several countries said in interviews over the past few days, and they expressed confidence that the extraordinarily elaborate security provisions will leave the Olympic sites - and the 16,000 athletes and officials - secure.


The United States and other NATO countries, along with other nations, are deeply involved in the vast security plans for the Games, which the Greek government estimates will cost $1.2 billion. The safety net involves Awacs planes; United States Navy frogmen in the port of Piraeus, where the ships carrying V.I.P.'s will dock; radiation detection devices along Greece's borders; and cameras in stadiums and elsewhere to look for terrorist suspects. The Greeks say they will have 70,000 of their own soldiers and police officers on the streets, but some foreign advisers caution that the number may be inflated by volunteers.


Still, the Americans are preparing for any eventuality.


The biggest concern remains that some Greek anarchist group will set off a small explosive device in a public area removed from the Olympics and cause a panic that could affect the Games. The Greeks are not sufficiently prepared to deal with this, foreign officials said.


If there is an attack, it is not clear yet, for example, how information will be presented to the public and to foreign embassies worried about their citizens, law enforcement officials from two Western countries said in telephone interviews.


Those were matters that were to have been discussed at a meeting this week of the seven-nation group that has been advising the Greeks on security. The meeting was canceled at the last minute, and no reasons have been given, said the officials, who were planning to attend.


The Greeks are worried that even though the armed American forces will all be required to operate in the presence of Greek police officers, there is potential for confusion. A European law enforcement official said he agreed with the concern. "If we all go in expecting to take care of security on our own, it's going to be a disaster," he said.


The Bush administration persuaded the Greeks to ask for NATO sponsorship for the American Special Forces contingent as a way to avoid stirring a political storm here, NATO officials said. Several NATO countries were opposed, one NATO official said, in part because NATO has no experience in counterterrorism work, but under pressure from the United States, relented.


What the Special Forces' role will be is not clear, the official said. He said the forces would probably be used only in the event of a terrorist attack, to throw up a cordon around and then evacuate the American athletes, as well as American dignitaries, who are expected to include President Bush's twin daughters and his father, the former president.


The separate force of bodyguards would come at least in part from the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service, Greek and American officials said. They will be on duty in the Olympic Village, and on buses escorting the American athletes to competitions, Greek officials said. The Americans have also sought permission to operate in public areas outside the Olympic area, but that has not been granted yet, Greek and American officials said.


The official Greek position is that no foreign police or security forces will be allowed to carry weapons because it is forbidden by the Greek Constitution, although earlier this month a Greek security official said that 24 American agents at a pre-Olympic American training camp on Crete would be armed.


Nearly every country in the world has a similar proscription against armed foreign agents, although they can be lifted in specific cases, usually through negotiations conducted by the ambassador.


Greek police and military units will provide all the necessary security, the Greek official said, and extra measures are being taken for the athletes from the United States, Britain and Israel. The risk level for these athletes is at level 4, of a maximum of 5, a Western law enforcement official said. Other nations that have supported the United States in the war in Iraq, like Poland, Italy, Australia, are at level 3, he said.


The United States, Britain and Israel have pushed the hardest to have their agents armed, Western and Greek officials said.


Israel will have at least two dozen armed agents in Athens, said one European official working with the Greeks on security issues. The Israelis were armed even at the Summer Games in Atlanta in 1996, despite American and Olympic policies barring weapons in foreign security forces, an American law enforcement official said.


At the 2000 Games in Sydney, the Australian government declared that no foreign agents would be allowed to carry weapons. The Israelis ignored the ban, and the Australian government looked the other way, Australian officials said.


Some two dozen countries are sending extra security personnel to Athens, including Japan, Belgium, Germany and Italy, all countries whose athletes are thought to be at some risk because of support for the United States in Iraq. But they will not be armed, European and Greek security officials said.


Australia is not sending armed personnel, Australian officials said, even though it will have the second largest athletic contingent at the Games, sent troops to Iraq, and has been singled out for attack by Osama bin Laden. It has contracted with private Greek companies for extra security, they said.


Greek officials are greatly worried about the use of arms by foreign forces. The armed American agents do not speak Greek and do not understand Greek culture, they say. What is going to happen, asked one Greek official, when an American agent sees a car weaving in and out of traffic? It is not uncommon Greek driving behavior. But an American might think it is a suicide bomber, and shoot, one official said.


And even though plans call for a Greek policeman to always be present with armed American agents, the rules do not spell out whether in the face of suspicious behavior, the Americans have to get permission from the Greeks to fire.
[/b]

[Uncle Chô]

:bash: Sorry but this article made me angry this morning...


The Greeks have had serious discussions with other European countries, principally Germany and Spain, Greek and European officials said. Both have now agreed not to send armed escorts.

The Greeks are worried that even though the armed American forces will all be required to operate in the presence of Greek police officers, there is potential for confusion. A European law enforcement official said he agreed with the concern. "If we all go in expecting to take care of security on our own, it's going to be a disaster," he said.

The official Greek position is that no foreign police or security forces will be allowed to carry weapons because it is forbidden by the Greek Constitution

The Israelis were armed* even at the Summer Games in Atlanta in 1996, despite American and Olympic policies barring weapons in foreign security forces, an American law enforcement official said.

At the 2000 Games in Sydney, the Australian government declared that no foreign agents would be allowed to carry weapons. The Israelis ignored the ban, and the Australian government looked the other way, Australian officials said.

http://www.americanflagpole.com/images/accessories/FLAG%20US%20LG%20American%20Flag.jpg http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/globe3.gif

Super Power at it's worst. And the whole world pledge one's allegiance to the USA. No wonder why it draws hate.


Greek officials are greatly worried about the use of arms by foreign forces. The armed American agents do not speak Greek and do not understand Greek culture, they say. What is going to happen, asked one Greek official, when an American agent sees a car weaving in and out of traffic? It is not uncommon Greek driving behavior. But an American might think it is a suicide bomber, and shoot, one official said.
Anybody who travelled to Greece know precisely how true is it!

* Do not refer to the 1972 Munich massacre as an excuse. The conditions have changed (ie CT teams worldwide now know how to deal with hostages situations)

[lekomin]

* Do not refer to the 1972 Munich massacre as an excuse. The conditions have changed (ie CT teams worldwide now know how to deal with hostages situations)
Q1 If you were a hostage, which CT would you prefer to deal with the situation:
a) FBI HRT
b) Greek Police SF
c) Egyptian SF
Q2 If you were a terrorist, which CT operator would you LEAST prefered to have behind your back
a) FBI HRT
b) Greek Police SF
c) Egyptian SF

take care
lekomin inc

[szr]

http://www.americanflagpole.com/images/accessories/FLAG%20US%20LG%20American%20Flag.jpg

Thanks for posting that nice big pic of the US' beloved flag! :D :hug:
<salutes the colors>

[ShotOver]

This is just getting annoying.
It's the Greek olympic games, so let the Greek blokes handle security. You lot are getting way to paranoid.

[Uncle Chô]

Being prepared to handle hazardous situations is not paranoïa. It is readiness and common sense.

We have read from months several reports that the world's CTs elite are training the Greeks.

Good.

But now the USA / Israël say to a sovereing country:

" **** you and your Constitution we take over and shut the **** up! "

That makes me angry.

[Nizark]

****, this many armed foreigners...might as well as call it The Occupation Games

[Nizark]

****, this many armed foreigners...might as well as call it The Occupation Games

[duck]

I think the whole Olympic Games have just gotten out of hand. They should go back to what it was in 1896 and drop all sports that have been added since then. You know something's wrong when the country that invented the Olympics and modern athletics is barely able to organize them now.

As for the security issue, wonder if the troops sent to Athens have immunity from persecution in Greece if there should be any accident?

[Apogee]

I'm sure we have at least a couple of SF guys that speak Greek, so that shouldn't be a huge issue. Second, there will be so many people from around the world in Athens that speaking Greek won't really be an issue.

There are members on this board who can speak much more intelligently about this issue than I can, but personally, I'm glad to see some of our guys over there. I know first had that as of a couple of years ago, Greek security wasn't the greatest.

[gbos]

:D I will tell this once again. Whatever those reporters say is BS. Only Greek SF will guard the games. And whoever is afraid he can stay home.

http://cache.*****images.com/comp/51086311.jpg?x=x&dasite=MS_GINS&ef=2&ev=1&dareq=E2399169AC85D6DE9A21091711E5AD1E180EBEE9FB221A5B7757C85AE85A779B

[HooyahCQB]

:bash:
* Do not refer to the 1972 Munich massacre as an excuse. The conditions have changed (ie CT teams worldwide now know how to deal with hostages situations)



Who said Terrorists would be taking hostages?


Personally, I don't give a crap if Israel puts its on security forces in. Judging by the '72 Olympic attacks I wouldn't trust any nation to protect my people either.

And the US too. Hell, our military trained most of the Greek military anyway.

Anyway, look at it this way. The US and Israeli forces will only react when the US or Israeli athletes are in trouble. If something does happen and Israel or the US screw up, then you can blame them when you're supposed to blame them, but stop putting the whole frikin' USofA on the same level with those in the US Government you HATE!


What the Special Forces' role will be is not clear, the official said. He said the forces would probably be used only in the event of a terrorist attack, to throw up a cordon around and then evacuate the American athletes, as well as American dignitaries, who are expected to include President Bush's twin daughters and his father, the former president.


I wouldn't trust anyother country with a former President and the daughters of the President than my own...would you?


Greek officials are greatly worried about the use of arms by foreign forces. The armed American agents do not speak Greek and do not understand Greek culture, they say. What is going to happen, asked one Greek official, when an American agent sees a car weaving in and out of traffic? It is not uncommon Greek driving behavior. But an American might think it is a suicide bomber, and shoot, one official said.



lol. This guy's never been to America. He doesn't think we have driver's over here who weave? If this was true, a lot of people would be dead in the US.

FBI's HRT has been deployed all over the world numerous times, you think they don't know that European drivers are a little different?

These people act like no one in the US ever sees a foreign country...they're making assumptions...

[NcDeuce]

Why are all of you getting your panties in a bunch? It's SOP for these type of events, probably better that it was kept from the public but whatever.

[Aussie E]

This is just getting annoying.
It's the Greek olympic games, so let the Greek blokes handle security. You lot are getting way to paranoid.
PT,
I read somewhere (not a good source ehh?) that the Aussies where sending their own secruity force with our athletes. I personally am a big believer of personal responsibilty and self relience and see no problem in countries sending their own secruity teams to these types of events if they get permission from the local authorities.

[usa320]

I think its overkill...

I think the Israelis have the best approach- small number of undercover, heavily armed PSD officers guarding the athletes.

Do i think we need Americans guarding our athletes? Absolutely. The Greeks barely have the infrastructure complete, more or less an effective security plan.

[Angelino]

Wonder if any special forces guys are allowed to participate in the olympics too. After all, I think they'd have a pretty good chance of winning something at the shooting events. Also these guys are technically *amateur* sportsmen, so they should be allowed to participate :D.

Come to think of it, I remember reading that one olympic medal winner in the 60s was a spetsnaz sniper or something and another was a swimmer?

[Ballistic]

This is just getting annoying.
It's the Greek olympic games, so let the Greek blokes handle security. You lot are getting way to paranoid.
PT,
I read somewhere (not a good source ehh?) that the Aussies where sending their own secruity force with our athletes. I personally am a big believer of personal responsibilty and self relience and see no problem in countries sending their own secruity teams to these types of events if they get permission from the local authorities.

Absolutely agree with that. I also read that the Aussie lot would have their own security force..armed or not I dont know. When did this change ??

[MEGR]

Don't you think that the US and Israel are basically now a days a lightning rod of hate? I'm glad the US and Israel have sent their guys.. What's wrong with more security?

[Deuterium]

:bash: Sorry but this article made me angry this morning...


The Greeks have had serious discussions with other European countries, principally Germany and Spain, Greek and European officials said. Both have now agreed not to send armed escorts.

The Greeks are worried that even though the armed American forces will all be required to operate in the presence of Greek police officers, there is potential for confusion. A European law enforcement official said he agreed with the concern. "If we all go in expecting to take care of security on our own, it's going to be a disaster," he said.

The official Greek position is that no foreign police or security forces will be allowed to carry weapons because it is forbidden by the Greek Constitution

The Israelis were armed* even at the Summer Games in Atlanta in 1996, despite American and Olympic policies barring weapons in foreign security forces, an American law enforcement official said.

At the 2000 Games in Sydney, the Australian government declared that no foreign agents would be allowed to carry weapons. The Israelis ignored the ban, and the Australian government looked the other way, Australian officials said.

http://www.americanflagpole.com/images/accessories/FLAG%20US%20LG%20American%20Flag.jpg http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/globe3.gif

Super Power at it's worst. And the whole world pledge one's allegiance to the USA. No wonder why it draws hate.


Greek officials are greatly worried about the use of arms by foreign forces. The armed American agents do not speak Greek and do not understand Greek culture, they say. What is going to happen, asked one Greek official, when an American agent sees a car weaving in and out of traffic? It is not uncommon Greek driving behavior. But an American might think it is a suicide bomber, and shoot, one official said.
Anybody who travelled to Greece know precisely how true is it!

* Do not refer to the 1972 Munich massacre as an excuse. The conditions have changed (ie CT teams worldwide now know how to deal with hostages situations)

Let's see. I'm US SF. I've been to Greece 6 times in the last four years. I've worked with Navy and Army Greek SF. I've trained with the Greek police and CT force, and with their DEA equivalent. I know Athens and Thess very well. I'm just an average US SF guy. Yeah we don't know **** about Greece. You know more.

[Sir Zach of R.]

:bash: Sorry but this article made me angry this morning...


The Greeks have had serious discussions with other European countries, principally Germany and Spain, Greek and European officials said. Both have now agreed not to send armed escorts.

The Greeks are worried that even though the armed American forces will all be required to operate in the presence of Greek police officers, there is potential for confusion. A European law enforcement official said he agreed with the concern. "If we all go in expecting to take care of security on our own, it's going to be a disaster," he said.

The official Greek position is that no foreign police or security forces will be allowed to carry weapons because it is forbidden by the Greek Constitution

The Israelis were armed* even at the Summer Games in Atlanta in 1996, despite American and Olympic policies barring weapons in foreign security forces, an American law enforcement official said.

At the 2000 Games in Sydney, the Australian government declared that no foreign agents would be allowed to carry weapons. The Israelis ignored the ban, and the Australian government looked the other way, Australian officials said.

http://www.americanflagpole.com/images/accessories/FLAG%20US%20LG%20American%20Flag.jpg http://www.harrythecat.com/graphics/b/globe3.gif

Super Power at it's worst. And the whole world pledge one's allegiance to the USA. No wonder why it draws hate.


Greek officials are greatly worried about the use of arms by foreign forces. The armed American agents do not speak Greek and do not understand Greek culture, they say. What is going to happen, asked one Greek official, when an American agent sees a car weaving in and out of traffic? It is not uncommon Greek driving behavior. But an American might think it is a suicide bomber, and shoot, one official said.
Anybody who travelled to Greece know precisely how true is it!

* Do not refer to the 1972 Munich massacre as an excuse. The conditions have changed (ie CT teams worldwide now know how to deal with hostages situations)

Let's see. I'm US SF. I've been to Greece 6 times in the last four years. I've worked with Navy and Army Greek SF. I've trained with the Greek CT police CT force, and with their DEA equivalent. I know Athens and Thess very well. I'm just an average US SF guy. Yeah we don't know **** about Greece. You know more.

Good way to put it Deut. woot

[Snake Eater Wannabe]

hey man im Greek and even i dont trust the greek military. Go USA

[mobster]

Exercise Olympic Charlie, 1996

Prior to the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, the United States counter-terrorism force staged a massive exercise in what was the largest peacetime security force in history of the Games. Present were BATF, FBI, Secret Service, local SWAT Teams, the Hostage Rescue Team, the US Army's Delta Force and even rumors of SEAL Team Six for maritime security. Even the Chemical/Biological Response Team were summoned for fear of terrorist attack. Olympic Charlie was a specific exercise dealing with the threat of chemical weapons attack, but I will also provide some information on the general security emplacements for that period of time.

Olympic Charlie simulated a gas attack in a subway, and was led by the FBI. Atlanta's subway service MARTA also has their own SWAT Team which according to a MARTA spokesman is trained in chemical response.

While this is all about Olympic Charlie in particular, a series of other exercises were run before the olympics. I am not sure if these are all a part of Olympic Charlie. Just before the Olympic Games, CNN ran a special on "Guarding the Games," which featured the look into the security organization behind the games. Amazingly, they ran a fairly long video clip of Delta Force operators in training, storming buildings, blowing in windows and performing evacuation of hostages under fire. It was quite amazing to see.

It ran quite a long segment on an assault by the MARTA SWAT Team on one of their subways with FBI agents role-playing terrorists sympathetic to Timothy McVeigh. Another part was all about suicide bombers, and the story of one who turned away from it all. Next was a feature about chemical weapons, and how one man acquired a deadly sample of the black plague through the US mail. It was this sort of thing that officials feared the most. That is why the 1996 Games were going to be the safest ever, with multiple agencies standing by in case of attack. The security was run, as I said before, many agencies, including the CIA's counter-terrorism branch, and experts were called in. One counter-terrorism expert, Jeff Beatty, a former Delta Force, CIA and HRT operator, (and who incidentally helped develop the Delta Force computer game released in Oct. '98), worried that all these agencies running the show would lead to confusion.

Other scenarios trained for were a Royal couple kidnapped, a French diplomat held hostage, chemical attacks and even nuclear attack.

Even though all these preparations were held, someone did manage to set off a pipebomb in the Centennial Olympic Park during a concert, and although the blast was luckily nothing compared to the OKC bombing, did kill 2 people and injured hundreds more.




CAG does alot more than we'll ever know. Word.

[Fintin]

the president gets to bring his own people in...why cant us athleats

[Michael RVR]

What a ****wit that guy is.

"I am certain we are going to be able to carry our guns," an American official said. "I'm not sure what we're going to own up to." The Greeks had made a number of other concessions on security matters that the Americans will not admit to, he said. "We must do this in a way that gives the Greeks their national pride."

:bash:

[sierraone]

I agree with gbos. Much too much is written by the press, exaggerated and blown out of proportion. Papers love mass paranoia, excitement and bad news. It sells more. If everything was going on as normal for the Olympics there wouldn't be much news in that would there? The only people guarding the Olympics is us - Greeks. Athletes and dignitaries of certain countries such as Israel and the US will have also own agents only as close protection. There won't be any Delta Force patrolling in Syntagma square. :D

[Midav]

The last time I checked, Greece is a sovereign country. Politics and "intense" pressure have been around for eons. If someone should be angry, then be angry at the Greek government for caving in.

On note, as much as they are bashed on here, the French and German governments sure as hell didn't have a problem saying no...

[Midav]

Btw, my post is directed at this:


Being prepared to handle hazardous situations is not paranoïa. It is readiness and common sense.

We have read from months several reports that the world's CTs elite are training the Greeks.

Good.

But now the USA / Israël say to a sovereing country:

" f*** you and your Constitution we take over and shut the f*** up! "

That makes me angry.

f*** you and your Constitution we take over and shut the f*** up!

One simple word in the English dictionary can sum that up: No.

[gbos]

The minister here said that the article is BS. It was all over the news yesterday. I suspect next step for those reporters is discovering that there is a potential danger for alien spaceships attacking the Olympics.

@Snake Eater: If you are Greek then I am from Zimbaboue

@Deuterium: If you have been to Athens did you felt that you were in danger or something?

[Truthsayer]

Don't you think that the US and Israel are basically now a days a lightning rod of hate? I'm glad the US and Israel have sent their guys.. What's wrong with more security?

Well, as always, sending armed personall into other countries isn't really looked happely upon.

I mean, imagine Olympics Los Angeles -84, the russians (then: soviet union) instead of boycotting the event send a unit of spetznas as a sign of force and 'mistrust' of the local police-force.

Wouldn't be recieved well in the US, now would it?

[Sayeret]

* Do not refer to the 1972 Munich massacre as an excuse. The conditions have changed (ie CT teams worldwide now know how to deal with hostages situations)

CT teams know how to handle most hostage situations but terrorists have gotten smarter too, remember the Moscow Theater hostage taking? Even though most attacks aern't hostage taking it shouldn't be ruled out.

[gbos]

And to help those poor reporters continue their back stabbing propaganda some photos from the ‘unfinished’ – ‘they can’t build them’ infrastructure:

http://www.ana.gr/anaweb/getimage?action=getimg&docid=1889333

http://briefcase.pathfinder.gr/download/gm2263/19249/291115/0/Tram+6+-+PF.jpg

The new tram

http://www.ana.gr/anaweb/getimage?action=getimg&docid=1890339

http://www.ana.gr/anaweb/getimage?action=getimg&docid=1890341

Night View of the Olympic stadium

http://www.daniilidis.gr/main/rion/images/gef_47060.jpg

The new 2.5 Km Rio – Antirio bridge

Not bad for a country with 11 million people. So these guys must be really incompetent guarding the games.

[Pille1234]

Greece imposes Olympics arms ban


Security for the 2004 Olympics is the most expensive ever
Greece says national Olympic teams will not be allowed to bring their own armed security guards to the Games.
The country's public order minister said state leaders could take armed guards but Greece alone would protect international athletes.

"Leaders, presidents, kings are one thing and athletes are another," George Voulgarakis said.

"Greece is exclusively responsible for the protection and guarding of the athletes."

A report by the New York Times suggested Greece had reached a tacit agreement with the US to allow armed American agents to act as bodyguards for their athletes.

But Mr Voulgarakis denied this.

"As far as the Games are concerned it is clear that Greek authorities have the exclusive responsibility, and they have done everything humanly possible for the Games to be held in a safe and peaceful environment," he said.

Security spending

In May the Greek government said it would be providing 24-hour armed protection for American, British and Israeli athletes, thought to be at particular risk during this summer's Games.

The country is rolling out the largest ever Olympic security operation in the history of the Games, spending up to one billion euros ($1.3bn, £600m) on 40,000 policemen, guards and troops.

Heads of state and other country leaders will be allowed to bring their own security personnel, in accordance with international agreements, Mr Voulgarakis said on Wednesday.

"The leaders of countries have specific protocols, that are separate and unrelated with the Olympics. These are bilateral agreements signed many years ago."

The country's constitution bans foreigners from bearing arms on Greek soil.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/3913035.stm

[gbos]

And some todays pictures woot

http://briefcase.pathfinder.gr/download/ioannis336/24686/291701/0/mDSC00007.JPG

And the stadium from the inside with the opening ceremony ad-on floor. Don't ask me what the hole in the middle is for. Funny that Carassava never made a positive article about all these. Coincidence or instructed journalism?

http://briefcase.pathfinder.gr/download/ioannis336/24686/291695/0/mDSC00002.JPG

[BlackRain]

Protest against security measures for Games

ATHENS: Civil rights demonstrators sabotaged one of hundreds of cameras installed on the streets of Athens in protest at security measures for next month’s Olympic Games.

Footage on private television station Mega showed a young protester standing on a ladder and daubing black paint on the camera installed on a 12m tall cement pillar in central Athens. Others were seen cutting the camera’s cables on the ground.

Protesters fear Greece’s massive security operation for the Games will undermine civil rights.

Police observing the small demonstration that took place in broad daylight did not intervene.

Hundreds of security cameras have been installed throughout Athens in recent days, feeding images to Greek police’s separate Olympic security and traffic control commands. – AFP

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2004/7/22/sports/8492765&sec=sports


This demonstrates the Greek security forces can not effectively protect their own security devices let alone foreign athletes.



NATO Likely to OK Greek Request for Aid

BRUSSELS, Belgium - NATO is expected to approve a last-minute Greek request for extra counterterrorism help at next month's Olympic Games in the coming days, an alliance official said Thursday.

NATO ambassadors meeting Thursday were generally supportive of Greece's new request for assistance with "counterterrorism aspects" of security at the Aug. 13-26 games in Athens, but no decision was made while technical details are worked out with the Greek government, the official said.

"We expect that the (alliance) will agree in the coming days to support the Greek authorities in this area," possibly as early as next Wednesday, she said on condition of anonymity.

Uncle Cho is an ass. Should NATO receive the world's hate for providing "ARMED" security for the Olympics? Surely, NATO members don't all speak Greek and don't understand local Greek customs. Oh My. Run for the hills we are all not safe now.

[gbos]

So black rain what do you suggest? Shooting the demonstrators? rofl

[BlackRain]

Police observing the small demonstration that took place in broad daylight did not intervene.


I don't know? Maybe arrest the criminals for destruction of property and interfering with security meant to protect innocent lives.

[gbos]

What is easier? Break 500 leftists’ heads to arrest a demonstrator or replace a painted glass and press charges against the identified individual later?

[DeltaWhisky58]

FFS - the thought is frightening.

[usbabmc]

IMO the problem with security for US athletes in Greece is not with the Greek CT skills but with the current culture of hate towards the US by European leaders. I have very little confidence that European leaders will give thier CT operators adequate clearance to provide the kind of security and ultimately response in the face of a situation required to assure all US athletes are safe and secure. Most of these leaders would likely enjoy seeing US citizens persecuted.

BTW, I've been lurking here for some time and finally decided to post! ;)

[BlackRain]

What is easier? Break 500 leftists’ heads to arrest a demonstrator or replace a painted glass and press charges against the identified individual later?


In this matter, the police never arrested anyone.

By not exercising authority in this situation only emblodens these criminals to commit bigger crimes.

They know the police will not do anything to them.

The conventional wisdom among most American's is that there will be a terrorist attack at the Olympics. When we here about these crazy stories in only reinforces concern for the athletes.

[gbos]

The fact that they didn’t arrest him on the spot is not suggesting that the prosecutor will not put charges against him. The prosecutors may be slow but they don’t forget either ;) . The police acted right to defuse the situation.

[Pille1234]

IMO the problem with security for US athletes in Greece is not with the Greek CT skills but with the current culture of hate towards the US by European leaders. I have very little confidence that European leaders will give thier CT operators adequate clearance to provide the kind of security and ultimately response in the face of a situation required to assure all US athletes are safe and secure. Most of these leaders would likely enjoy seeing US citizens persecuted.

BTW, I've been lurking here for some time and finally decided to post! ;)
You're right! Europeans would love to see american athletes die in a terrorist attack. Actually that means more medals for european athletes, right?
Congrats to your first post mate, I sincerely hope your following posts are getting better. :slap:

[BlackRain]

The fact that they didn’t arrest him on the spot is not suggesting that the prosecutor will not put charges against him. The prosecutors may be slow but they don’t forget either ;) . The police acted right to defuse the situation.


You be sure to lets know when that happens! rofl

[usbabmc]

Pille: Maybe my statement was a little strong, however I have zero confidence in Europes leaders when it comes to US security. And no it has absolutely nothing to do with medals, it has more to do with anti-americanism. If I offended you then so be it, I am entitled to my opinion.

[Pille1234]

Pille: Maybe my statement was a little strong, however I have zero confidence in Europes leaders when it comes to US security. And no it has absolutely nothing to do with medals, it has more to do with anti-americanism. If I offended you then so be it, I am entitled to my opinion.
No, you didn't offend me, but I was shocked by your believe we Europeans would passivly watch (and enjoy?) terrorists killing Americans. This is not about Europes leaders, the only one responsible for security of ALL members is the greece government and their executive officers. I really don't understand how anybody can doubt on their strong will to protect all members and visitors (including Americans) of the olympic games.
Btw all that Antiamercanism in Europe is highly exaggerated, pls don't believe everthing Black Rain or Bill O'Reilly tells you. Better come over here and watch for yourself.

[-Max2-]

IMO the problem with security for US athletes in Greece is not with the Greek CT skills but with the current culture of hate towards the US by European leaders. I have very little confidence that European leaders will give thier CT operators adequate clearance to provide the kind of security and ultimately response in the face of a situation required to assure all US athletes are safe and secure. Most of these leaders would likely enjoy seeing US citizens persecuted.


:cantbeli:

I hope its a joke...

[usbabmc]

Pille: Maybe my view of Europe is a bit skewed but I really don't feel that our athletes will be adequately protected without US security. I guess I have turned into a pessimist in the past year or two. I really do hope that my view of European anti-americanism is exagerated because we were true allies once. I was planning a holiday to Europe and would like to visit several countries but those plans have long since been changed and my vacation dollars will stay in the US.

Max: My comment about persecution was not pointed directly at the death of our athletes but more at making the US look bad in the world view.

I didn't post to start probems I simply wanted to express my view of this topic.

[gbos]

The fact that they didn’t arrest him on the spot is not suggesting that the prosecutor will not put charges against him. The prosecutors may be slow but they don’t forget either ;) . The police acted right to defuse the situation.


You be sure to lets know when that happens! rofl

I am sure that if the police had handled the situation differently the exact same reporters would have accused the police for incompetence. I can even imagine the headlines:

‘
EXCEES FORCE BY GREEK POLICE
By Anthee Carassava

Greek police yesterday overreacted and used brutal force to dissolve a peaceful demonstration ignoring the so called Olympic spirit. As a result 25 injured people have been taken to the hospital. A European official express concern and stated ‘how this police force is going to react when it will face thousand on spectators in the coming weeks?’ (they always use unnamed sources)

‘

Btw there is a similar demonstration today and maybe this fictional article will make headlines tomorrow. rofl

And blackrain you really have no idea how to handle a demonstration ;) .

[Pille1234]

rofl rofl
good one gbos!

[Deuterium]

The minister here said that the article is BS. It was all over the news yesterday. I suspect next step for those reporters is discovering that there is a potential danger for alien spaceships attacking the Olympics.

@Snake Eater: If you are Greek then I am from Zimbaboue

@Deuterium: If you have been to Athens did you felt that you were in danger or something?

I always felt safe in Greece. In Athens the only real danger, except maybe from pick-pockets or getting gouged at a restaurant in the Plaka, is directed at heads of organizations and the occasional RPG or fire bomb at an American bank or McDonalds. I made sure I never went to either. I'd go back to Greece in heartbeat for vacation. Greece is an awesome place. It's an inexpensive vacation too if you get outside of Athens.

[BlackRain]

Btw there is a similar demonstration today and maybe this fictional article will make headlines tomorrow. rofl

And blackrain you really have no idea how to handle a demonstration ;) .

You are emotional and not logical.

You don't know me or who I am or my training.

Therefore, you incapable of making any determination of my potential skills in dealing with illegal activities.

I will end this silliness now. I just pray that people like you are never in a position to make decisions regarding security.

[gbos]

The minister here said that the article is BS. It was all over the news yesterday. I suspect next step for those reporters is discovering that there is a potential danger for alien spaceships attacking the Olympics.

@Snake Eater: If you are Greek then I am from Zimbaboue

@Deuterium: If you have been to Athens did you felt that you were in danger or something?

I always felt safe in Greece. In Athens the only real danger, except maybe from pick-pockets or getting gouged at a restaurant in the Plaka, is directed at heads of organizations and the occasional RPG or fire bomb at an American bank or McDonalds. I made sure I never went to either. I'd go back to Greece in heartbeat for vacation. Greece is an awesome place. It's an inexpensive vacation too if you get outside of Athens.

:) There is no need to eat in a restaurant in Plaka. All locals know that you can find much better food elsewhere. As for vacation just grab a ferry from Piraeus and go to any island in Kyklades.

[SamDamon]

http://www.filerush.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1098

[Aussie E]

FROM WWW.THEAUSTRALIAN.NEWS.COM.AU

PM considers armed guards for Olympics
By Peter Lalor
July 23, 2004
THE Howard Government is still open to the possibility of sending armed guards to protect Australian athletes in Athens during the Olympic Games, which open in just 21 days.

In the wake of new reports that the US and Israel will send their own armed details for their teams despite Greece's position that security should be left to the host country, John Howard said he was considering whether Australia should follow suit.

"I spoke to the Foreign Minister (Alexander Downer) this morning and we're assessing the matter," the Prime Minister said yesterday.

Mr Downer said Australia reserved the right to ask if it could send armed security personnel.

The US is committing 400 special operations officers under the NATO banner, with suggestions they will be posted on the island of Crete or in Athens itself.

The Jerusalem Post reported that Israel had threatened to pull out of the Games if it could not provide armed security for its athletes and had unofficially been given the go-ahead.

The Israelis have secretly provided armed guards for athletes at every Olympics since the terrorist attack at the Munich Games in 1972.

The Greek constitution bans foreigners bearing arms on its soil, but the Government has said it would allow armed guards for visiting dignitaries at the Olympics.

Greek authorities are still insisting the gun ban is in place and only Greek security will guard athletes.

"I don't have any information about armed foreign guards," said Defence Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos.

US Secretary of State Donald Rumsfeld yesterday admitted extra security may be provided by NATO. The Australian Olympic Committee had a "no arms" policy at the 2000 Sydney Games and has agreed to the same in Athens.

However, Israeli security were caught entering Sydney with bulletproof vests and gun holsters before the Games. Olympic sources said guns could be sent through protected diplomatic mail. The Greek Gov ernment has hired 40,000 local security staff to protect athletes.

The Australian team will have a small unarmed security attachment with members of the Australian Federal Police and a terrorist expert from the Department of Foreign Affairs. A Greek liaison officer will be attached to the team and armed guards can be provided for any outing.

Greece has spent more than $2.4billion on security, including a blimp fitted with high-resolution cameras and chemical detection systems that will float above the city.

American newspapers have reported that the risk level for US, Israeli and British athletes in Greece was four out of a maximum of five, while for Australians it was three.

from www.dictionary.com

dig·ni·tar·y ( P ) ****unciation Key (dgn-tr)
n. pl. dig·ni·tar·ies
A person of high rank or position.

[Download or Buy Now]
Source: The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.


dignitary

\Dig"ni*ta*ry\, n.; pl. Dignitaries. [Cf. F. dignitaire, fr. L. dignitas.] One who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of dignity or honor; especially, one who holds an ecclesiastical rank above that of a parochial priest or clergyman.


[Free Trial - Merriam-Webster Unabridged.]
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.


dignitary

n : an important or influential person [syn: very important person, VIP, high-up, panjandrum]
under these definitions Olympic athletes would fit the bill of dignitary.

[Deuterium]

FROM WWW.THEAUSTRALIAN.NEWS.COM.AU

PM considers armed guards for Olympics
By Peter Lalor
July 23, 2004
THE Howard Government is still open to the possibility of sending armed guards to protect Australian athletes in Athens during the Olympic Games, which open in just 21 days.

In the wake of new reports that the US and Israel will send their own armed details for their teams despite Greece's position that security should be left to the host country, John Howard said he was considering whether Australia should follow suit.

"I spoke to the Foreign Minister (Alexander Downer) this morning and we're assessing the matter," the Prime Minister said yesterday.

Mr Downer said Australia reserved the right to ask if it could send armed security personnel.

The US is committing 400 special operations officers under the NATO banner, with suggestions they will be posted on the island of Crete or in Athens itself.

The Jerusalem Post reported that Israel had threatened to pull out of the Games if it could not provide armed security for its athletes and had unofficially been given the go-ahead.

The Israelis have secretly provided armed guards for athletes at every Olympics since the terrorist attack at the Munich Games in 1972.

The Greek constitution bans foreigners bearing arms on its soil, but the Government has said it would allow armed guards for visiting dignitaries at the Olympics.

Greek authorities are still insisting the gun ban is in place and only Greek security will guard athletes.

"I don't have any information about armed foreign guards," said Defence Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos.

US Secretary of State Donald Rumsfeld yesterday admitted extra security may be provided by NATO. The Australian Olympic Committee had a "no arms" policy at the 2000 Sydney Games and has agreed to the same in Athens.

However, Israeli security were caught entering Sydney with bulletproof vests and gun holsters before the Games. Olympic sources said guns could be sent through protected diplomatic mail. The Greek Gov ernment has hired 40,000 local security staff to protect athletes.

The Australian team will have a small unarmed security attachment with members of the Australian Federal Police and a terrorist expert from the Department of Foreign Affairs. A Greek liaison officer will be attached to the team and armed guards can be provided for any outing.

Greece has spent more than $2.4billion on security, including a blimp fitted with high-resolution cameras and chemical detection systems that will float above the city.

American newspapers have reported that the risk level for US, Israeli and British athletes in Greece was four out of a maximum of five, while for Australians it was three.

from www.dictionary.com

dig·ni·tar·y ( P ) ****unciation Key (dgn-tr)
n. pl. dig·ni·tar·ies
A person of high rank or position.

[Download or Buy Now]
Source: The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.


dignitary

\Dig"ni*ta*ry\, n.; pl. Dignitaries. [Cf. F. dignitaire, fr. L. dignitas.] One who possesses exalted rank or holds a position of dignity or honor; especially, one who holds an ecclesiastical rank above that of a parochial priest or clergyman.


[Free Trial - Merriam-Webster Unabridged.]
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, © 1996, 1998 MICRA, Inc.


dignitary

n : an important or influential person [syn: very important person, VIP, high-up, panjandrum]
under these definitions Olympic athletes would fit the bill of dignitary.

I don't know what's in the Greek constitution but I've been carrying a gun in Greece for a number of years under the authority of the Greek Military and Greek police. I assume the this situation is the same.


Greek Police
http://www.deuteriumox.com/milphotos/gc1.jpg

Greek Police
http://www.deuteriumox.com/milphotos/gc2.jpg

http://www.deuteriumox.com/milphotos/gc3.jpg

Greek SF
http://www.deuteriumox.com/milphotos/gc4.jpg

[duck]

Wohoo! Someone else is shooting with their left too! woot

[Deuterium]

Wohoo! Someone else is shooting with their left too! woot

I'm right handed but Left eye dominant. I send morse code with my left hand. I also kick with my left foot. I do, however shoot rifle right handed. I think I was forced to write right handed when I was young.

[duck]

Wohoo! Someone else is shooting with their left too! woot

I'm right handed but Left eye dominant. I send morse code with my left hand. I also kick with my left foot. I do, however shoot rifle right handed. I think I was forced to write right handed when I was young.

Odd. I shoot rifles with the left but handguns with the right. Write with the left and play ball with the right. Hmmm...

[Hydro]

Is that DPM you're fashionably sporting, Deuterium? Nice idiot-proof pictures there, by the way. :)

[Herrmannek]

And I just think that will be great game and lots of fun, but Poles probably don't bring much gold this year....

[moughoun]

Wait a minute......Deuterium is an old geezer p-) :lol:

[Hav218]

My girlfriend is in Athens, Greece right now. I just hope that those guys do their jobs.

[Aussie E]

from www.theaustralian.news.com.au

Aussies get less security in Athens
By Leo Schlink
August 03, 2004
AUSTRALIA'S Olympic team will be living in a less secure section of the Athens village than the American and Israeli athletes after being deemed at lower risk of terrorist attack.

Australian athletes will not be allowed to mingle with competitors from the US or Israel, who will be segregated behind a high security fence protected by armed Greek guards.

The 482-member Australian team has been given medium-risk security status in the Greek capital, whereas the US and Israel have been given high-risk status.

American and Israeli security forces have also reportedly been permitted to carry guns to protect their athletes at the Games with a further 400 US special operations troops operating under the NATO banner ready to throw a security cordon around the US team in the event of a terrorist attack.

Despite heightened security concerns surrounding Australia's prominent role in Iraq, the Australian Olympic Committee has baulked at requesting similar protection.

Australian Olympic Committee president John Coates confirmed the Americans and Israelis - perceived as possible terrorist targets - had been isolated from more than 8000 other athletes at the Olympic Village.

"There is internal perimeter security around the US and the Israelis," Mr Coates said.

"There's another fence around them and another access point for their athletes so athletes from other nations, for example, wouldn't be able to go in there and there is Greek security around that - not US or Israeli. We had that for the Israelis in Sydney and it's a fact of life that there have been risk assessments done on participating nations and those two are seen as at the greatest risk.

"We're seen as somewhere down the list and there is not that additional security. I understand that and I am relaxed about that.

"Quite frankly, additional security for our athletes, I don't see it as necessary."

Unarmed Australian Federal Police have bolstered team security.

Mr Coates said the measures implemented to protect US and Israeli athletes were understandable in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Eleven Israeli athletes were murdered by Palestinian terrorists at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.

Mr Coates acknowledged the need for extra protection for some nations, admitting it limited the ability of athletes to mix with those from rival countries.

"That does interfere with that, but it's the world we live in," he said.

[ßå$tĮТHÏ¿ð]

The biggest concern remains that some Greek anarchist group will set off a small explosive device in a public area removed from the Olympics and cause a panic that could affect the Games. The Greeks are not sufficiently prepared to deal with this, foreign officials said.


Flashbacks of 96' anyone? Considering things I doubt an organization would have the balls to attack at the Olympic games, more likely it would be a loaner working by himself. Its happened before, but people are more paranoid these days.....

[radon]

I personally think they can bring theyr own people there , but they should respect the Greek in any case.

Now Blackrain what wolud you say if the olympics 2008 were somewhere in Us and everyone would take theyr own security with them? Am I wrong when I say you wouldn't approve?

Now who here thinks the greek aren't prepared for the olympics?

[MEGR]

I personally think they can bring theyr own people there , but they should respect the Greek in any case.

Now Blackrain what wolud you say if the olympics 2008 were somewhere in Us and everyone would take theyr own security with them? Am I wrong when I say you wouldn't approve?

Now who here thinks the greek aren't prepared for the olympics?

I wouldn't mind at all if foreign countries brought their own security to the US. I don't see what the big deal is. It would just give us less work to do.

[achilles]

The biggest concern remains that some Greek anarchist group will set off a small explosive device in a public area removed from the Olympics and cause a panic that could affect the Games. The Greeks are not sufficiently prepared to deal with this, foreign officials said.

This excerpt is taken from an Australian newspaper and that makes it automatically unreliable (i am not condemning the Australian press, just the part related to the Olympics). Ever since 1997 when Greece undertook the whole project, the Australian press has been attacking Greece ferociously. Of course they had a reason to do so since nothing had actually been constructed before 2000. Yet, the magnitude of the Australian Press' hostility is something that i cannot really explain. I never took seriously their criticism because something else must lie behind it.

As far as this excerpt is concerned even thinking about is a joke but lets try and break it down just for the heck of it. I guess the biggest concern should be a bunch of 'anarchist' groups i.e. a bunch of kids mainly that have no idea about 'anarchism' or practically anything else. All they can do is construct small 'patented' bombs made of small gas tanks you can find in any supermarket. Either that or what is known in Greece as Molotof 'bombs': glass bottles full of fuel which they light up. Small explosions here and there is a frequent thing in Athens and the Greek media tend to make a big deal out of it....Australian media usually present the picture of a nuclear holocaust, just because some stupid kids set a couple fireworks dowtown Athens. The funny thing is that those deeply philosophized anarchists call themselves terrorist organization X or Y.
Even if an explosion goes off...we better stay calm and relaxed...enjoying the games because most likely it will not be Al Qaeda or November 17th or the Lucifer himself. Its not very difficult to let the media make their fuss and sell their time, while the rest of us are watching the 4x400 relay.

Apart from that, i am personally happy to have international cooperation for the security of the games. And i really dont mind foreign officers carrying weapons in Greece. What should we expect?...FBI agents to bring only intelligence and advice? And what happens to their personal security? or maybe MOSAD officers carrying slingshots?

Bottom line: every single construction work has finished and the Greek authorities have done everything possible to prevent any unfortunate event that would jeopardize the security. As i have already said there is no such thing as absolute security but my personal opinion and wish is that everything is going to be ok.

[achilles]

I wouldn't mind at all if foreign countries brought their own security to the US. I don't see what the big deal is. It would just give us less work to do

That would be practically inconvenient and more or less impossible because if every single country was to bring its own security in the Olympics it would have been impossible to coordinate themselves and exchange intelligence effectively. Everyone bringing his own security is a pattern that belongs to any good mafia movie so i wouldnt suggest it in such a big event as the Olympic games are ;)

[WoodChipper]

http://www.americanflagpole.com/images/accessories/FLAG%20US%20LG%20American%20Flag.jpg

Thanks for posting that nice big pic of the US' beloved flag! :D :hug:
<salutes the colors> They're not much into Canadians either. KFOR had to race out of Thessilannika in the middle of the night when their vehicles were unloaded from the ships, Kosovo wasn't their cup of tea I guess.