The summary of the order states that the mission will be to develop and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy to secure the United States from terrorist threats or attacks. Ridge will work with executive departments and agencies, state and local governments and private entities to ensure the adequacy of the national strategy for preparing for and responding to terrorist threats or attacks within the United States.
"Since September 11th, our government has worked so well together-both at the federal, state, and local, public and private sectors. While the federal government is more coordinated than ever, we are also working hand-in-hand with state and local governments. We are in constant contact with... many others, to determine ways to protect our homeland and respond to potential threats," says Ridge.
Easier said than done. The fact remains that there needs to be a finer focus on homeland security from border and immigration patrol, airport security to bioterrorism counteraction, just to name a few.