Re: My close encounter with Homeland security...
I travelled to the US recently for a few weeks and I was invariably 'selected' for special treatment more than a few time. I am neither muslim nor carry a green passport. But what I did notice was that in many cases (apart from me ofcourse :-) ), there indeed were random selections. More than a couple of instances I noticed that goras, including women were made to go through these special security checks.
I have conflicting opinions about this. I believe that these searches by themselves do not result in capturing or apprehending terrorists. But it has been my experience that such frisking at factory gates in many third world countries reduce chances of theft or such things.
I suppose I just grin and bear it. I should say though, that while the security agents are not apologetic about having to search you, they are invariably polite about it.