Ed and MM
As I understand it, it is standard procedure to scramble fighter aircraft in such instances as the controllers experienced. This failed to happen in 4 instances and explanations have always seemed to me to be a bit weak.
MM, I understand that the Pentegon itself is somewhat a military area, or area of considerable military concern.
Ed - The "bungling" is what the official conspiracy says happened i.e that it was all just a cock-up, which maybe it was but there isnt enough evidence for it IMHO.
I have the quotes of many conversations somewhere and there is some curious stuff in there. I'll try and dig it out. I appreciate the challenges btw