Help Military Personnel Protect Themselves On American Soil

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On September 6, 2011, Eduardo Sencion murdered four people and wounded seven others as they ate breakfast at IHOP in Carson City, Nevada. Listed among the casualties were five National Guardsman (3 dead and 2 wounded). What makes this situation even more tragic is that the five members of the National Guard were unable to protect themselves and the others around them due to outdated regulations that were handed down by the George H.W. Bush Administration.

In 1992, the Bush Administration handed down DoD Directive 5210.56, Use of Deadly Force and the Carrying of Firearms by DoD Personnel Engaged in Enforcement and Security Duties. This directive limits the type of military personnel, both on-base and off, that are allowed to carry firearms to military law enforcement and protective services.

2011 is not 1992. Military personnel, across the nation, are in considerably more danger due to the threat of terrorism. In light of recent events in Carson City, it is essential that military personnel be given the option of carrying weapons, concealed or unconcealed, while in uniform outside of military instillations.

For this, we the undersigned, believe that DoD Directive 5210.56, and all military regulations including Army Regulation 190-14, should be amended to allow military personnel the option to carry weapons for protection purposes while off-base and in uniform.

It is essential that the men and women who serve the United States be given every chance to protect themselves. Police Officers, and other law enforcement personnel, are not only allowed to carry firearms while off-duty but are often encouraged to do so. If military personnel are capable of handling weapons in warzones, then we should give them the opportunity to protect themselves on American soil.

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