11,500 U.S. troops to back up local law enforcement and "provide security" for Obama inauguration

Gulf Times

US military mobilises troops for inaugurationWednesday, December 17, 2008 WASHINGTON: The US military plans to mobilise thousands of troops to protect Washington against potential terrorist attack during the inauguration of president-elect Barack Obama, a senior US military commander said yesterday.They will fly combat air patrols and man air defences, organise large scale medical support, and help local law enforcement provide security in the capital, said General Gene Renuart, head of the US Northern Command.“(It’s) not because we see a specific threat, but because for an event this visible, this important and this historic, we ought to be prepared to respond if something does happen,” he told reporters.Renuart said some 7,500 active duty troops and 4,000 national guard troops will take part in the operations in support of the inauguration of the 44th US president on January 20.Overall responsibility for security during the inauguration falls to the Secret Service.But Renuart’s command, which is co-located with NORAD, is responsible for preparing for any contingency.Some troops will march in parades, serve in honor guards or perform other ceremonial duties, he said.But most of the national guard troops will back up local law enforcement, while active duty forces will provide specialized capabilities, according to the general. [...]