Carter said that Defense Directive 5210.6, issued April 1, 2011, under then-Secretary Robert Gates, “allows for the arming of qualified DOD personnel (not regularly engaged in law enforcement duties) based on the threat and the immediate need to protect DOD assets and lives”.
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The shooting was the deadliest criminal attack at a domestic military base since an Army psychiatrist shot and killed 13 soldiers and wounded 29 others in November 2009 at Fort Hood, Texas.
In addition to the potential arming of additional troops, Carter has asked military leaders to consider physical security upgrades and procedural improvements at the DOD’s 7,000 off-installation sites, such as recruiting stations, ROTC units and reserve centers.
In days following the attack in Chattanooga, Tenn. that killed five Marines, the Pentagon has revised their weapons policy for American forces while they’re in the country.
“We are thrilled the Department of Defense will finally be taking the necessary steps to allow our transgender service members to serve openly and honestly”, said Broadway-Mack, as reported in the New York Times, which noted that the number of transgender people serving in the military is estimated to be over 15,000. The service has authorized sailors at off-installation, Navy-led reserve centers to carry firearms “as a matter of prudent and necessary action toward protecting our personnel”, said Navy spokesman Lt. Timothy Hawkins.
Rep. Scott E. Rigell, the Virginia Republican who represents the military-rich Tidewater region, sent a letter to Mr. Carter urging him to change policy. “Our nation’s military Secretaries now have until August 21, 2015, to submit their specific policy recommendations to Secretary Carter”.
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Mr. Carter’s signed memo said, “I know commanders and other leaders will remain committed to the protection of our dedicated men and women of the all-volunteer force who sacrifice on a daily basis to keep our Nation free”.
