Imagine this: dedicated Department of Homeland Security (DHS) helicopter pilots soaring through the night sky, vigilantly patrolling to keep our nation safe. Suddenly, a blinding green laser pierces the cockpit, disorienting the crew and jeopardizing the mission. This isn’t a scene from an action movie; it’s the alarming reality our pilots face with increasing frequency.

In recent months, laser attacks on aircraft have surged to unprecedented levels. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported a staggering 13,304 laser incidents in 2023 alone—a 41% increase from the previous year. These aren’t harmless pranks; they’re deliberate assaults with potentially catastrophic consequences.

Take, for instance, the unsettling events at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey. Since December 7, fifteen aircraft, including DHS helicopters, have been targeted by laser strikes. In one particularly egregious case, a pilot sustained injuries severe enough to require medical attention upon landing. Yet, where’s the national outrage? Why isn’t this front-page news?

The perpetrators of these attacks might dismiss their actions as trivial mischief, but the reality is far graver. A laser aimed at an aircraft can cause temporary blindness, disorientation, and even permanent eye damage to pilots. At critical moments—during takeoff, landing, or low-altitude maneuvers—such distractions can lead to disastrous outcomes, endangering not only the crew but also civilians on the ground.

Despite the severity of these incidents, arrests remain infrequent. The FAA possesses the authority to impose fines up to $11,000 per violation, with a maximum of $30,800 for multiple offenses. However, enforcement is challenging, and the current penalties don’t seem to serve as a sufficient deterrent. It’s high time we reevaluate our approach and impose stricter consequences for these reckless individuals.

This surge in laser attacks coincides with a wave of hysteria over unidentified drones. Across the nation, reports of mysterious drones have led to public paranoia. In their misguided attempts to down these perceived threats, some individuals resort to using lasers, inadvertently targeting manned aircraft. The FBI has issued warnings against such actions, emphasizing the potential for tragic accidents. Yet, the message doesn’t seem to be resonating.

The mainstream media’s silence on this issue is deafening. Instead of highlighting the dangers our pilots face, they choose to focus on sensationalized stories that fit their preferred narratives. Our brave men and women in uniform deserve better. They risk their lives daily to protect our freedoms, and the least we can do is shed light on the challenges they encounter.

So, what can be done? First and foremost, public awareness must be heightened. Communities need to understand that pointing a laser at an aircraft isn’t a joke—it’s a federal offense with life-threatening implications. Law enforcement agencies should be equipped with the necessary tools and resources to track down and prosecute offenders effectively.

Moreover, retailers should exercise responsibility when selling high-powered laser devices. Implementing age restrictions and providing clear warnings about the dangers of misuse could curb the availability of these gadgets to potential wrongdoers.

In a time when our nation’s security faces numerous challenges, the last thing our DHS pilots should worry about is being blinded by a laser while performing their duties. It’s imperative that we, as a society, stand in solidarity with our aviation professionals. By raising awareness, enforcing stringent penalties, and supporting our law enforcement agencies, we can combat this growing menace.

Let’s not wait for a tragedy to occur before we take action. Our pilots are the frontline defenders of our homeland, and they deserve our unwavering support. It’s time to shine a light on this issue—before another laser blinds one of our heroes.