I recall seeing signs posted along that area that say no stopping on Rt. 9 by the base.  Perhaps you just missed them.
I'm sure they don't want anyone taking pictures of injured or dead soldiers returning to the US - as that is where they all go - to Dover.  

Denise Ryan
Washington, DC

-----Original Message-----
From: Maryland Birds & Birding [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of Thomas H Beal
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2005 10:52 AM
To: 
Subject: [MDOSPREY] Security nonsense in Del.


Don't try legally parking on a side road and walking along Rt 9 at the  south 
end of Dover AFB to look for upland sandpipers.  This is the only  place I 
have seen them and was trying to add to my 'big day' list last  spring.  There 
are new no parking signs and fences, but I was legally  parked and walking 
along the shoulder of the road when Air Force security came  up with lights 
flashing.  They asked me what I was doing and after I  explained it to them they 
asked me to leave anyway.  I was ready to stand  up for my rights, but they 
simply gave me two options, get in their car for a  ride a) back to my car or b) to 
base security to 'sort things out.' Well, I  backed down, BUT when we got 
back to my car they saw my stock mounted scope on  the back seat and freaked out. 
 I had to assume the position while they  searched my car and called for a 
supervisor.  After the captain looked over  my stuff, I told him to either let 
me go or lock me up. He gave me my wallet and  keys (and pen knife) back and 
asked me to 'please' leave the area.   Still would like to know the legal status 
of walking along the highway. They  followed me to Ted Harvey, don't know how 
long they waited. I assume I am on  some terrorist list now.
 
 
 
Tom  Beal
Glenn Dale, MD