I'm not a security expert, nor do I pretend to be, so as far as the advanced notice to the general public prior to this photo op I really can't say if it was the right or wrong decision. I don't know how close the aircraft was to downtown Manhattan, but I would be nervous seeing a low flying B747 being trailed by a Fighter Jet had I been in Manhattan that day. It's a difference of a opinion though, and I'm willing to agree that some will see the photo op in poor taste and others' will not.

I agree with your point about the fuel money already being budgeted into this mission, therefore no additional cost would have came to the taxpayers. The issue is that our federal government could occasionally attempt to reward or promote agency officials who are thrifty, meeting their organizations' objectives while still coming in under budget.

Since we've touched on this subject, it's the same song and dance just to a different song this time. Our federal government lacks adequate fiscal oversight and responsibility. The solution to every problem is throwing money at it until it goes away. Most agencies aim to hit there budget or surpass it for fear of being handed out less funding in the year ahead.

Not trying to call you out USMC or take your comments out of context, but large, successful Fortune 500 companies pride themselves in their ability to maximize their profits while minimizing their productions costs/overhead. I think our Government could learn a thing or two from these types of companies.