ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the mission of the armed forces in response to terrorism on the mainland including homeland defense, homeland security, and support to civil authorities. It discusses authorities and policies related to natural and man-made disasters such as a Commander's inherent immediate response authority, the use of the military during domestic civil disobediences, special events, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear disasters, public health emergencies, mass migration emergencies and counter-drug applications. During most domestic emergencies, the military primarily provides support to civilian organizations such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency under the direction of the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, or the Department of Justice. Requests for military support are to be in writing and will include a commitment to reimburse the Department of Defense in accordance with "The Economy Act". A great deal of military support has been provided to federal, state, and local law enforcement involved in counter-drug operations.
