An officer from each of the United States armed forces - the Navy, the Army, the Marine Corps, and the Air Force - was given the order "Secure a building" and told to draft the appropriate operational instructions.
The Navy officer ordered that all fire-fighting equipment be confirmed as fully effective, all first-aid stores fully stocked, any trip hazards eliminated, all electrical equipment properly earthed and verified as safe, and all emergency exits clearly signposted and uncluttered.
The Army officer ordered guards placed on all doors, sentinels on the roof and upper floors, roving patrols on the perimeter, and access to be restricted to authorised personnel.
The Marine Corps officer prepared plans for an assault by a company supported by mortars and rocket launchers, with detailed orders on clearing the floors of hostiles, securing prisoners and intelligence, evacuating the wounded, and setting up defences against counter-attacks.
The Air Force officer wrote, "Contact the owner to discuss options to rent or purchase."