During the previous 4 weeks, you have explored many of the strategic, policy, and operational changes that have taken place since 2001. The purpose of this assignment is to explore the aforementioned activities of recent years in the context of the two major incidents that have shaped the environment in which they were conceived and implemented: 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina.

Based upon the course materials, textbook, Web resources, and your own research, write a policy memo of 900–1,200 words that identifies 2–3 areas of homeland security that continue to require improvement. Consider what has been accomplished and what is left to be done in the areas you select as you address the following research questions:

Assignment Guidelines

• Address the following in 900–1,200 words:
  • Why was your selected topic area identified as in need of improvement originally (e.g., which report and why)?
  • What recommendations were made, and what has been accomplished?
  • What positive steps have been taken? What are the remaining gaps?
  • Why is this an important area? Is it important nationally, regionally, or locally?
  • Whose responsibility is it to implement the recommended changes and improvements? Whose responsibility is it to implement your recommendations?
  • What sources for funding are available?
  • How will your recommended changes improve your local HS? How will they improve our national HS?
  • Despite your recommendations, what gaps will continue to remain in that topic area?
• Be sure to reference all sources using APA style.