[RDaneel54]

I haven't replied or written a thread in awhile, but this one really hits home for me. I have been a frequent, business traveller for over 20 years. In my last two jobs, I travelled about 20 weeks per year. About 5-7 weeks of that was international for the last 12 years.

I've been irritated by the US response to terrorism since 9/11. Each new security restriction has added to the hassle of travel. I have had to get to the airport earlier and often had more flight problems because of it. A little over a year ago I stopped flying internationally, with relief. Not because I don't like to travel, but because of the hassle of returning from outside the US. Then I stopped flying a year ago and only drove in the continental US. I would rather drive and lose my weekends then go through TSA's "security."

Now I've retired and I know the only flights I'll be on are occasional ones to South Korea (we have family there).

I am puzzled why an effective solution, like bomb sniffing dogs, is not even considered, while an ineffective solution is enacted.

In war, generals often fight the last battle. It appears, this is our solution to terrorism, also.

Flying, except as a necessity for overseas trips, is no longer an option for me.

The pleasure of travelling with my pocket knife in my pocket, all the liquids I want with me, keeping my shoes on, using the restroom when I need to, and having my possessions private, cannot be understated.

Ben Franklin was right when he said, "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."

We are well down that path.

Dean