# The “Abraham Lincoln” Protocol
*A Structured Framework for Clearing and Securing a Public Space for Dignitaries*
This framework uses the letters in **ABRAHAM LINCOLN** to define disciplined, layered preparation. It is not tactical choreography; it is structural risk control.
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## A — Advance Planning
Conduct a full site survey in advance:
- Entry/exit routes
- Elevation points
- Blind spots
- Crowd flow patterns
- Emergency egress paths
No improvisation on event day.
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## B — Buffer Zones
Establish layered perimeters:
- Outer public perimeter
- Controlled access perimeter
- Secure inner zone
Distance reduces unpredictability.
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## R — Risk Assessment
Evaluate:
- Crowd size and density
- Political or social volatility
- Protest likelihood
- Historical incident data
Security posture must match risk level.
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## A — Access Control
Credentialed access only within secured zones.
- Visual credentials
- Controlled checkpoints
- Equipment screening
Remove ambiguity about who belongs where.
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## H — Hardened Positioning
Place dignitaries:
- With clear sightlines
- With secured rear access
- Without uncontrolled approach vectors
Avoid exposed staging.
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## A — Accountability
Define command structure clearly:
- Incident commander
- Security lead
- Law enforcement liaison
- Medical coordinator
No overlapping authority.
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## M — Medical Readiness
On-site medical presence with:
- Clear ambulance routes
- Rapid extraction plan
- Communication link to local hospitals
Preparedness is prevention.
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## L — Layered Personnel
Uniformed presence for deterrence.
Plainclothes personnel for observation.
Crowd marshals for flow management.
Visibility and discretion both matter.
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## I — Intelligence Monitoring
Monitor:
- Public chatter
- Social media signals
- Local law enforcement advisories
Adjust posture dynamically if risk escalates.
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## N — Nonlinear Exit Planning
Plan multiple exit routes:
- Primary
- Secondary
- Contingency
Extraction must never depend on one path.
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## C — Crowd Communication
Clear announcements reduce confusion:
- Entry instructions
- Restricted areas
- Emergency procedures
Clarity reduces panic.
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## O — Observation Discipline
Assign dedicated observers to:
- Elevated vantage points
- Crowd behavioral anomalies
- Perimeter integrity
Constant scanning prevents surprise.
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## L — Law Enforcement Coordination
Pre-event briefing with:
- Local police
- Fire services
- Emergency management
Shared situational awareness prevents delay.
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## N — Neutral Zones
Designate areas where:
- Press operate
- VIP guests gather
- Public congregates
Avoid uncontrolled intermixing.
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### Principle
Security failures often stem from informality, ambiguity, or diffusion of responsibility.
A secure event is orderly, deliberate, and anticipatory.