I am going to start this blog off acknowledging that most of the close-in protection details today for many of you are 1 and possibly 2 man gigs. For various reasons, mainly financial, clients have scaled back, don’t see the need, or worse providers are unable to articulate why more specialists are necessary.
For those of you who still work multiple specialist close-in details (not referring to special events) but literally deploying from multiple vehicles to provide protection, I want to offer and suggestion of effect versus affect.
Footprint can be a double edged sword. I am in no way saying that in a negative way because there are times when it is absolutely necessary that all personnel deploy on an arrival, walk to the departure etc. The scene of a multi car motorcade, a 4, 5 or 6 man diamond can bring unnecessary attention to you and your principal. The overt presence exudes SECURITY at the highest levels of the industry (if performed correctly). BUT it also attracts unnecessary attention from onlookers. Many of them are just nosey and want to know who that man or woman is, OR recognize your principal and then the fanfare starts.
I will be the first to tell you that there is nothing better looking than a well orchestrated arrival. NOTHING!!! But in all it’s glitz and glamour it can also be a hidden nuisance. We draw attention. Our presence demands attention just by the nature of what we do and how we do it. The typical fleet of vehicles we use draws attention.
There are ways to cheat the system, still be effective and not have the negative affect when it comes to footprint and/or presence and still not give up effective protective measures.
2 comments
Trevor Clinton
September 27, 2012 at 5:31 pm (UTC -4) Link to this comment
I like that tip Eric the less attention drawn the better…..
Eric Konohia
September 27, 2012 at 8:04 pm (UTC -4) Link to this comment
Thanks Trevor