Re: Obviously ...
Obviously you haven't dealt with some rather "interesting" devices in shoes these days. It's good that they scan shoes now, but that doesn't remove the "split second" decision an agent must make.
You'd be amazed at what I've encountered, but you like to quote TSA. This isn't a TSA secured area. This was Iraq. Trust me, better to be safe than sorry. Security is paramount in what I do for a living, and even more paramount in Iraq. It always will take .2 seconds to execute a decision, and 5 years to tear it apart, but that is the inherit beauty of a hind sight of 20/20.
The point wasn't whether or not someone could sneak something in. The point is that the next time this happens, an agent cannot assume that the shoes are harmless.
Obviously you don't know the definition of and the entire context of my use of the term "deterrence." It's a real problem, especially after someone did something that was "harmless." Next time, agents may assume it's not.
There are a few options for this 'deterrence' as you put it. Let's put this in perspective since you know the Afgan Area, and from previous posts you should know that I know this area. What kind of message would this present if one agent used lethal force on this guy in Afghanistan, now picture Iraq? My :2 cents: use something less than lethal, rubber bullet, bean bag, you name it... That way 2-3 people don't get wounded from one bullet, simple ballistics 101. Then guess what, you still have one guy you can take back, alive for questioning, and no collateral damage. Also, for security, don't you think something like this wouldn't be screened more than once, and just imagine the amount of support something like this would have.
This isn't a box cutter, or something that simple. I know TSA is full of people who 'know security' but I even chuckle while in uniform going through TSA checkpoints. I bet you do at times as well. Don't compare TSA operations to something like this, it's like comparison of waffles to waste disposal. My main point, yes a deterrence is a great thing, but would a negative outcome (overreaction to threat) be better? Like is stated before it takes .2 seconds to execute, and 5 years to tear it apart. Also, don't forget there is a Status of Forces Agreement in Iraq, not a UN Mandate... just thinking out loud for you.