Spot on there Mr Chips. People are talking about proportion, well it was a proportioned response to barr the man from the flight. Furthermore, he is a policeman and should know better, and therefore they should investigate him and see if this is the type of officer that they want in the force.
Granted, security procedures need to be improved when it comes to checking ID's and such (I think they are installing a imaging scan at a major US airport for that very thing) but to joke around about security anytime is bad, and after recent events, is just plain stupid.
I always listen to security, sometimes you do come across a jobsworth - well complain through the proper channels, but these people have a huge extra burden just added to their jobs - cut them a little slack and for heavens sake, don't try any wisecracks.
: DD :