Heard Rep. Shays on the radio today. Said not if, but when, and what and how bad. Said civilians should not prepare but pressure our representatives to prepare for us. Said smallpox vaccinations for everyone would take 5 years. Said preparedness had several parts - intelligence and prevention failed at WTC but response was excellent - medical supplies there within 8 hours. (And they were perfectly adequate because there were dozens of the gravely wounded not thousands). I guess he's a good sample of the government in action.
Mrs VS
Well, it looks like awareness of the need for self-reliance and preparedness is just beginning to dawn.
And as soon as the sleeples realize that Big Brother Gov can't possibly help them when TSHTF, they will make runs on practical functional wartime items, just as gas masks are now selling out at high prices.
Beat the maddening crowds and prepare prudently while there is still time.
Think about slow-downs in imports, possible fuel shortages, etc -- and make your shopping lists!