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March 17, 2003
After much planning, Homeland Security Department launches Operation Liberty Shield to safeguard the United States during war with Iraq.

July 26, 2003
Homeland Security officials meet at Ronald Reagan Building in Washington to discuss threats to Transit Without Visa program. On Aug. 2, program is suspended.

Dec. 21, 2003
Homeland Security officials raise national threat level to code orange, or "high," risk of terrorist attacks.

Dec. 31, 2003-Jan. 1, 2004
Homeland Security agencies, FBI carry out complex passenger screening procedures at Dulles International and other airports.

Source:
DHS documents, interviews.