The DOS is working with the Marine Corps to develop backups for such situations. One possibility being considered is to issue cell phones to the MSGs. Several weapons changes, including the issuance of nonlethal weapons, to the MSGs also are under study. To meet future contingencies, the Corps is forming an expanded crisis-response force that will include medical and other support personnel. We are going to do that.
Calamities can sometimes serve as watershed learning experiences.
Neither Kenya nor Tanzania was considered a high-threat post. Cross is convinced that all posts are high-threat, and that terrorists will always try to hit the easiest targets. Burgess is more comfortable when his Marines live inside the compound of secure embassies, but most reside outside, as do their DOS counterparts. That may change, but not everywhere. And not immediately.