Originally Posted by
SgtScott31
I do not mean this as disrespectful, but in my eyes adding real badges and dark blue uniforms will only cause more spite by the flying public. Although there has been some assaults on TSA personnel, they have been isolated, and I would believe the aggressor in each case was hit with local and federal charges. There is not enough justification to warrant the expense in switching uniforms and adding actual badges.
Re: the article...if they wanted more respect, they need to train the TSOs to be respectful. Respect is earned, not demanded. If they were to choose a uniform, I would suggest a proper suit & tie.
A suit and tie works well with the REAL LEOs who do security work at the higher-level government buildings, and they look damn good. I also should add that they don't bark orders or have arcane rules. I've never been asked to take off my shoes, not bring food/beverages inside the building, nor had to show my ID more than once. When I do present ID, I've never had a LEO give me any grief about what form of ID I present. They're always polite, sometimes even greeting me by name if they recognize me, yet I have absolutely no doubt that if they sensed something amiss they'd draw their weapons and wouldn't be afraid to use them. Do I feel safe at these buildings? Absolutely. Do I feel safe at an airport or on an airline? Absolutely NOT. The illusion of security is a hindrance and distraction to implementing real security.