As that terrible date in history, Sept. 11, moves inexorably closer to first-anniversary status, we are inundated on a daily basis by more pronouncements regarding Weapons of Mass Destruction.

While Penobscot County is by no means immune from this truly global threat, I would advise the fine citizens “hereabouts” that plans, protocols and precautionary measures are in place to protect our loved ones, civic institutions and the lifestyle we hold dear.

Fine and brave local men and women in the fire service, police service and countless other emergency responders stand ready to give their all, as did their brethren in New York City on that terribly day September last.

Your elected officials at the local, county and state levels have provided funds to mitigate the unthinkable. A cadre of civil servants meet somewhere in the state on an almost daily basis to review current emergency services. Plans are adjusted according to real time threat analysis, tailored to the needs of each Maine community.

Plans have been put in place to see to it that citizens are protected in ways they do not see, by people they do not recognize in places they take for granted. From the bailiff in the courthouse, cops on the beat, to the fireman at the local firehouse and the members of our military in the National Guard, the citizens of Penobscot County can rest assured that their safety and the promise of their loved ones is of paramount importance to those charged with planning for the unimaginable.

Each community in Maine has a representative on the Emergency Management Team. Our collective goal is to design and implement plans to protect the public and the environment of the state of Maine.

From the smallest hamlet fire chief to the fine folks at Maine Emergency Management Agency in Augusta, we are on the job. At a moment’s notice, a very complex system stands ready to activate and take the required actions. From “dirty bombs” to “dam bustings” we are ready and will be there to support and provide guidance to all corners of this fine state.

We will continue to train, to be vigilant and in the end, we will prevail.

Tom Robertson is the director of the Penobscot County Emergency Management Agency.