Please don't tell me that they were just 'doing their jobs'. You are allowed to perform your job and use your brain at the same time, but this often does not appear to be encouraged in the airport security industry.
Well said Dutchy
'rules are for the strict adherence of fools and the guidance of the wise'. ...it was obviously a fool who was doing security, during that story recounting the elder gentleman with knee surgery in Sydney.
...and Pete, well summed up, in your last paragraph. Here, here!