Security check at Austin Straubel

ASHWAUBENON - Travelers at Austin Straubel International Airport went through extra security Tuesday morning.

The Transportation Security Administration, along with other federal and local agencies, held what they called a "highly visible" prevention and response operation. The two-hour operation involved checking cars outside the airport and passengers inside the airport. Officers were looking for explosives and suspicious behavior.

Security officials said they wanted to throw off anyone who might be studying the airport's usual security routine and send a message to travelers.

"Not only does it remind them that terrorism is still very real and alive, but it also shows them that we're out here doing our job and doing it in full force," said Tim Decker of the TSA.

Security officials said they do checks like this about two or three times a year at major airports in Northeast Wisconsin.