Pete Hegseth allows troops to carry personal firearms on military bases
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a memo allowing military personnel to request permission to carry personal firearms on military installations, aiming to enhance self-defense capabilities in case of attacks.
- The new policy relaxes previous restrictions by making approvals easier and requiring detailed explanations for any denials, while still aligning with local state gun laws and regulations.
- Hegseth cited past shootings at military bases, including Pensacola and Fort Stewart, to highlight the need for armed service members to respond quickly in emergencies.
- This directive builds on a 2016 Pentagon policy under Obama but extends it by simplifying the approval process and presuming servicemembers' right to carry on post.
- The policy has received support from some, including Mayra Guillen, sister of Vanessa Guillen, who believes carrying firearms could prevent similar tragedies on military bases.
