Originally Posted by
N1120A
So, I had an unexpected overnight at IAD (long story involving diversions and an amazing RCC agent finding a way to rebook an unconnected PNR to my ultimate destination, Santorini). After spending the night at the Hyatt on United's dime and having an enjoyable time at the Udvar-Hazy Annex, I headed back to Dulles. The RCC lady said I should use the Diamond checkpoint and I wasn't disappointed. There was literally one other person who went through just before me and no line.
The TDC, who was wearing plain clothes and seemed to be training somehow, stated stated "where are you from" when looking at my NEXUS card. I said nothing and just looked at her. She said "well, I've never seen one of these before" to which I responded "that's not my fault". She looked over it and let me through. I then broke code and actually asked her if she had seen a Passport Card. She said no, and asked if that is what my card is. I said "no, this is a trusted traveler card." After that, it was smooth gliding through the checkpoint and I didn't see any MMW or Death Ray machines. It was almost like the old Argenbright days.
Why not train her? Pull out your Passport Card and show her that, too. Explain what NEXUS is. Let her know that anyone with that card has been through a more rigorous background check than TSA employees-- maybe she'll have new-found respect for anyone with a NEXUS card. Tell her that the same is true for cards she might encounter that say FAST or SENTRI and look just like the NEXUS card.
To be sure, it is not your job to train her. But that's what I'd have done if I'd had the time and there wasn't a line. In any case, I don't think that sarcastic remark was necessary.