ACTIVE SHOOTER CHATTANOOGA, TN NAVAL SUPPORT CENTER 16 JUL 2015

2015-07-16T12:49:36-04:00

ACTIVE SHOOTER CHATTANOOGA, TN NAVAL SUPPORT CENTER 16 JUL 2015

There is an active shooter at the Chattanooga, TN Naval Support Center on Amincola Highway as well as the Armed Forces Recruiting Center on Lee HWY.

One Chattanooga Police Officer shot.

Tune into CNN or local news for more updates.

http://www.newschannel9.com

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 12:50 PM

2015-07-16T12:50:08-04:00

Chattanooga, TN is now a NO FLY ZONE

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 12:51 PM

2015-07-16T12:51:20-04:00

Jade Helm conspirators might be going nuts right about now. Hope people are ducking and covering.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 1:12 PM

2015-07-16T13:12:47-04:00

Unconfirmed 4 Marines and 1 Police officer shot

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 1:19 PM

2015-07-16T13:19:07-04:00

Active shooter is now over. Scenes are under control and investigation is under way. Press conference scheduled later today

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 1:33 PM

2015-07-16T13:33:45-04:00

CONFIRMED 2 Marines wounded, 1 Police officer wounded, Single Shooter has been neutralized

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 1:53 PM

2015-07-16T13:53:07-04:00

UPDATE:
Local news conference will be at 2pm EST
Lee Highway Armed Forces Recruiting offices targeted are Air Force and Marines

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 2:27 PM

2015-07-16T14:27:35-04:00

Shots were at the Marine and Air Force Recruiting center on Lee HWY and the Naval Support Ops Center on Amnicola HWY. News conference is expected at 2:30 EST.

Response by CPL(P) Bret Farritor made Jul 16 at 2015 2:27 PM

2015-07-16T14:27:58-04:00

A prayer for their families.

Response by Sgt Tom Vaughn made Jul 16 at 2015 2:29 PM

2015-07-16T14:29:06-04:00

I pray for all of them ,
Thank you for the update
TSgt Hunter Logan

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 2:31 PM

2015-07-16T14:31:44-04:00

Living here in Chattanooga with Live updates. FBI/ATF/DoD are on ground and investigating

Response by GySgt Bryan A. McGown "Gunny" made Jul 16 at 2015 2:31 PM

2015-07-16T14:31:58-04:00

Thanks for the update. This is a very sad day for our Marines, and their families. God rest their souls!

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jul 16 at 2015 2:33 PM

2015-07-16T14:33:39-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan I'm very sorry for the loss of these soldiers and anyone else associated with this situation. I'm curious as to the reason and the why? Hunter please update us if you hear any more on this? I'll try to watch the headlines as well. I want to know the motivation behind this unbelieveable violence?

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Jul 16 at 2015 2:35 PM

2015-07-16T14:35:43-04:00

That's a kick in the junk.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 2:38 PM

2015-07-16T14:38:23-04:00

Prayer vigil tonight redemption church Chattanooga at 7pm

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Jul 16 at 2015 2:38 PM

2015-07-16T14:38:55-04:00

I keep running back and forth between my desk and the TV in the cafeteria to get updates. It is a sad day indeed. My condolences to the Marines and their families.

Response by Sgt Den OBrien made Jul 16 at 2015 2:42 PM

2015-07-16T14:42:02-04:00

Here we go again. More "workplace violence".

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 2:44 PM

2015-07-16T14:44:11-04:00

I will provide live updates when the news conference begins. As of now I can tell you that the scene here in Chattanooga is still active. Confirmed that there were 2 separate shootings by a single gunman beginning around 1100 EST. The first shots were fired at a shopping center Armed Forces Recruiting center. Specifically Marine and Air Force Offices. The second 7 miles away at a Naval Support Operations Center. There is NO confirmation on how many people are killed or injured but as soon as I hear I will update.

Response by SFC Everett Oliver made Jul 16 at 2015 2:47 PM

2015-07-16T14:47:35-04:00

SO this went down at 11 AM I read somewhere.... And we are being told next to nothing still....WHY?

I will go out on a limb here that there was an attack and the second shooting was where the police officer was shot and the shooter was killed.
But I am guessing...

Response by LTC John Shaw made Jul 16 at 2015 2:50 PM

2015-07-16T14:50:29-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan Prayers for the Marines, families and other impacted.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 2:54 PM

2015-07-16T14:54:45-04:00

Chattanooga Mayor, Police Chief, FBI, ATF, DoD, and DHS have gathered to discuss press conference at the Chattanooga Police Operations Center.

Case now in the jurisdiction of Federal Agencies.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-07-16T14:55:49-04:00

3 dead at Naval Reserve Center, 3 injured at Recruiting station. Shooter dead.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-07-16T15:00:03-04:00

Official update 5 dead : 4 Marines and 1 Shooter

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made Jul 16 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-07-16T15:00:32-04:00

Well THAT's a shot to the crotch!

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:00 PM

2015-07-16T15:00:58-04:00

Official Update: 5 dead: 4 Marines and 1 Shooter

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:03 PM

2015-07-16T15:03:38-04:00

Conference Live in 5 min. Department of Justice now investigating incident

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jul 16 at 2015 3:05 PM

2015-07-16T15:05:19-04:00

Motherfucking cowards that do this shit always take the easy way out. I swear, if God came to me one day and said 'you can resurrect 10 people', I'd fucking start with a few of these.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:05 PM

2015-07-16T15:05:49-04:00

5 Killed: 4 Marines, 1 Shooter, 1 Police Officer shot in Ankle. Multiple others treated and released.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-07-16T15:09:54-04:00

Investigation will be joint with FBI/ATF/Local police. Lead will be the FBI as a Domestic Terrorist Attack. FBI Special Agent in charge is Ed Reinhold

Response by Capt Lance Gallardo made Jul 16 at 2015 3:11 PM

2015-07-16T15:11:24-04:00

At this point with every uniformed Service member a potential target for ISIS inspired Violent Muslim Extremists, I think the DOD should consider extending Open Carry and Concealed Carry Regulations to Officers and NCOs at Recruiting stations and while on Base/Post per regulations and conditions promulgated by Commanding Officers. Force protection is not an idea that is only valid when outside of CONUS but unfortunately while here at home as well.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 16 at 2015 3:11 PM

2015-07-16T15:11:32-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan The only thing for me to say is may Therese Marines sleep the sleep of the righteous and may their families be granted peace. No opinion until further facts are reported.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:11 PM

2015-07-16T15:11:46-04:00

All Marines were killed at the Naval Support Center on Amnicola HWY

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:23 PM

2015-07-16T15:23:27-04:00

Timeline of Events: Shots fired at 10:55EST on Armed Forces Recruiting Center on Lee HWY wounding 3. Officers responded and began pursuit of the suspect who then drove to the Naval Support center (7 miles) where he shot and killed 4 Marines then exchanged fire with police. One officer was shot in the ankle and the suspect was shot and killed. Joint investigation now being led by FBI Special Agent Ed Reinhold.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:24 PM

2015-07-16T15:24:50-04:00

Response by SN Greg Wright made Jul 16 at 2015 3:27 PM

2015-07-16T15:27:27-04:00

Not credibly. It seems to have been a disgruntled white guy.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 16 at 2015 3:28 PM

2015-07-16T15:28:57-04:00

I hope this isn't a precursor to something bigger. With that said, condolences to the families of the fallen Marines and I've got to go to my break room and turn on the news.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 3:28 PM

2015-07-16T15:28:59-04:00

I'm with you sir, ISIS did it.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:30 PM

2015-07-16T15:30:43-04:00

As this investigation develops I will post on this thread. Thank you all for your concern and prayers during this tragic event.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 3:31 PM

2015-07-16T15:31:10-04:00

As this investigation develops I will post on this thread. Thank you all for your concern and prayers during this tragic event

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 3:34 PM

2015-07-16T15:34:53-04:00

Thank you SSG Michael O'Malley for all the updates today

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Jul 16 at 2015 3:38 PM

2015-07-16T15:38:47-04:00

One more reason to allow conceal carry.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Jul 16 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-07-16T15:45:41-04:00

I think ISIS would claim a cow fart in Montana if they thought it would make them look tougher than they are.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Jul 16 at 2015 3:49 PM

2015-07-16T15:49:54-04:00

I'm wondering exactly where this incident is going to go? Whose group is going to use this to move their agenda forward at the expense of these murdered Marines. Perhaps it is time to harden the soft targets that are our stateside military.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Jul 16 at 2015 3:51 PM

2015-07-16T15:51:20-04:00

Blame, not credit. I still think that we need to take the gloves off. No ROE, no geneva protection, no mercy. KILL THEM AND ALL OF THEIR SUPPORTERS!

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jul 16 at 2015 3:54 PM

2015-07-16T15:54:13-04:00

Got to agree with you on that, GySgt Austin Belanger.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 3:55 PM

2015-07-16T15:55:31-04:00

:( May they rest in peace. and their families have the support they need during they years to come from their families, friends, and military family to overcome this tragedy. RIP Brothers.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 4:05 PM

2015-07-16T16:05:40-04:00

No this kind of thing is something that is going on today in small towns and large. It takes place for a number of reasons. Reasons like sadness, death in the family , lack of meaning full work , being black balled for one's own family. Despair with your own life , being rejected by a 'LOVE' interest. Being ignored by human service professional's , no money ( CASH) in pocket. Also depression and any number of reasons. All or most of which can be addressed and dealt with. Except in American Society today we , in say we. Meaning all of us. Have no social skills. So we become something that we have the ability to do. ** Which is kill , become a 'KILLER". Right , i mean after all you or i can't just become a small business owner , we can't become the PRESIDENT of a business. Not out of the blue. But we can kill. So that's it. That's all. And there are many , many of us turning to this path. And that does not include the real members of ISIS that are here. Or the other people that come in over the fence like the ( DONALD) mention. Who come here and can't make it. So they get angry and attack.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Jul 16 at 2015 4:10 PM

2015-07-16T16:10:27-04:00

Isis could be behind it or could be some dumb person hopefully the FBI figures out. Isis does claim stuff when they do it so it seems

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made Jul 16 at 2015 4:11 PM

2015-07-16T16:11:54-04:00

It is a shame it happened and I hope they find out who did it

Response by SPC Joshua H. made Jul 16 at 2015 4:13 PM

2015-07-16T16:13:19-04:00

My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the fallen Marines.

My other feelings, if expressed, would more then likely result in a ban.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 4:18 PM

2015-07-16T16:18:13-04:00

Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 4:21 PM

2015-07-16T16:21:24-04:00

Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez <------ Muslim terrorist.

Response by GySgt John O'Donnell made Jul 16 at 2015 4:35 PM

2015-07-16T16:35:49-04:00

This is a sad day in the Marine Corps and across the Armed Services. I pray for my brothers/sisters and their families.
I am so angered that they couldn't defend themselves due to current rules and regulations. We trust our warfighters to carry a weapon in other countries but not in our own country. They have the training and background investigations already done, and many already have State Concealed or Open Carry licenses, but when the are on Federal Property / in uniform or our of uniform they are not able to be armed. Let's hope this changes...soon!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 4:36 PM

2015-07-16T16:36:36-04:00

I agree with you. May that murderer rot in hell.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 4:37 PM

2015-07-16T16:37:45-04:00

A U.S. official says the gunman in the shootings in Tennessee has been identified as 24-year-old Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez.

He was believed to have been born in Kuwait, and it was unclear whether he was a U.S. or Kuwaiti citizen. The official was speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing, sensitive investigation. It was not immediately clear whether the gunman's first name was spelled Muhammad or Mohammad.

He is from Hixson, Tennessee, which is just a few miles across the river from Chattanooga.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 16 at 2015 4:38 PM

2015-07-16T16:38:27-04:00

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 4:45 PM

2015-07-16T16:45:45-04:00

Just yesterday, I was speaking with our Reserve Center Facilities manager on security measures. I mentioned "you just never know when something can happen". Service members everywhere, please take a look at your protection measures and facilities security SOPs and Battle Drills today! You can never train too much!

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Jul 16 at 2015 4:52 PM

2015-07-16T16:52:32-04:00

That's pretty much a smoking gun......waiting for more facts....fog of war.

Response by CPO Joseph Grant made Jul 16 at 2015 4:54 PM

2015-07-16T16:54:40-04:00

We'll see what happens and what is released to the public.

Response by SPC Ei McS made Jul 16 at 2015 4:56 PM

2015-07-16T16:56:37-04:00

My heart feels heavy and saddened on this day! I also feel anger though! May they rest in Peace! My prayers go out to my fallen buddies, their family and friends, and the USMC Family!

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jul 16 at 2015 4:56 PM

2015-07-16T16:56:53-04:00

Follow-up to earlier news story. Associated Press states that ISIS tweeted #Chattanooga at 1045, 15 minutes before the shooting!
The shooter's name is Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez
This probably will fuel the speculation that this attack on the recruiting station and Naval training facility was done to activate a sleeper shooter.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Jul 16 at 2015 4:58 PM

2015-07-16T16:58:16-04:00

According to the news, it was a guy from Hixson Tennessee. I suspect that's not a hot bed of ISIS activity...

Response by LTC John Shaw made Jul 16 at 2015 4:58 PM

2015-07-16T16:58:52-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan Looks planned and coordinated. I wish military was allowed to carry...Israel has no problems with it.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 16 at 2015 4:59 PM

2015-07-16T16:59:08-04:00

Bump topic. Maybe we should arm the Armed Forces.
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/arm-the-armed-forces

Arm the Armed Forces! | RallyPoint

The outcome of the discussion "Concealed carry for CAC holders?" by [~222148:SGT Bernard Boyer III]. Below follows my skeleton letter to congress, based on the edits RP members have suggested to the 10 points. Anyone and everyone is welcome to edit and personalize the letter for their own use in writing to their congressional representatives. We sent a mass email on 3 January, the swearing in of the new congress, now it's a free for all. You...

Response by SPC Andrew Griffin made Jul 16 at 2015 4:59 PM

2015-07-16T16:59:43-04:00

I would EXPECT them too!

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 16 at 2015 5:05 PM

2015-07-16T17:05:31-04:00

Lets hope he was acting alone. Or if he wasn't, we aggressively seek out his supporters and take their asses out too before anymore Americans are killed.

Response by Sgt Elaine Lopez made Jul 16 at 2015 5:06 PM

2015-07-16T17:06:44-04:00

This angers me beyond words!

My heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the four brave Marines murdered today.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Jul 16 at 2015 5:09 PM

2015-07-16T17:09:17-04:00

WTF? How many more of these do we have to withstand, before we take the battle to ISIS on their home turf?

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 5:30 PM

2015-07-16T17:30:29-04:00

An awful senseless tragedy that hopefully will not be used politically unless it is to increase security or to offer some small compensation or condolences to the families.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 5:38 PM

2015-07-16T17:38:24-04:00

Didn't have the guts to face armed Marines, I see.
Too bad the shooter didn't make it. I would have liked a chance to kick him in the balls myself.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Jul 16 at 2015 6:03 PM

2015-07-16T18:03:43-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan I'm not going to comment or speculate until there are more official facts, but if this is what we have to look forward to in this country, then something needs to be done over there swiftly!

Response by MAJ Haris Balcinovic made Jul 16 at 2015 6:05 PM

2015-07-16T18:05:33-04:00

This hits way to close to home - my Reserve Center is in Knoxville TN (about 100 miles north) but I have quite a few friends in Chattanooga. This is horrible, but I can't say that I didn't see this coming. My question is - when is DoD going to provide security for Reserve and National Guard centers or allow Service Members who serve be armed at these centers? We train all our service members to go to war yet we can't properly protect/arm them here at home. This is inexcusable

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 16 at 2015 6:32 PM

2015-07-16T18:32:33-04:00

Maybe we should arm the armed forces.
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/arm-the-armed-forces

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 16 at 2015 6:35 PM

2015-07-16T18:35:41-04:00

Maybe we should arm the armed forces.
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/arm-the-armed-forces

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 16 at 2015 6:39 PM

2015-07-16T18:39:19-04:00

Maybe we should arm the armed forces.
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/arm-the-armed-forces

Response by Sgt Justin Mayfield made Jul 16 at 2015 7:05 PM

2015-07-16T19:05:45-04:00

In view of these events and other recent events I must say that some wild and probably not the best ideas have come to mind about how to handle them but how else are we supposed to solve these problems when our hands have been tied?

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Jul 16 at 2015 7:51 PM

2015-07-16T19:51:48-04:00

It angers me to no end. These senseless attacks must be dealt with and prevented. I'm not sure how to prevent these acts but vigilance is a must! No more soft targets.

Response by Col Lyman Faith made Jul 16 at 2015 8:23 PM

2015-07-16T20:23:06-04:00

Rest In Peace Marines.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jul 16 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-07-16T20:28:31-04:00

I want to thank CNN for airing all the nice things people are saying about Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez, the alleged shooter at the military facilities in Chattanooga, TN which left an unconfirmed number of my brother or sisters dead and others wounded. What does it help to air all the nice things folks are saying about this alleged murderer? CNN must be the most bleeding heart liberal POS news station in the US.

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Jul 16 at 2015 8:51 PM

2015-07-16T20:51:32-04:00

As soon as I heard the news, I quietly bet myself $5 that the shooter was a Muslim. I should've gone double-or-nothing on the name!

Response by LCpl Cameron Dills made Jul 16 at 2015 9:03 PM

2015-07-16T21:03:15-04:00

The worst part is that most of the comments is that of political nonsense.

Response by SGT Marvin Harrington made Jul 16 at 2015 10:35 PM

2015-07-16T22:35:45-04:00

Enough is enough as a former Paratrooper and retired Law Enforcement, start arming our militarybasedat home. Take the fight to them especiallyif they are here already. Arnold Civil war General said it best, "War is cruel, the crueler you are, the faster its over"

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 10:40 PM

2015-07-16T22:40:45-04:00

My sincere condolences to the families of the dead and wounded. I cannot write what I'm feeling now, the anger and rage are too strong.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 10:42 PM

2015-07-16T22:42:31-04:00

LTC Stephen F., why would you call him a wannabee? ISIS has called for lone wolf attacks. The killer was a muslim and he hit military targets. ISIS tweeted #Chattanooga minutes before. What do you think it takes to play for their team to be officially ISIS? Do they have an application and job interviews? We need to stop denying that the enemy is here.

Response by CW4 Mark Brubeck made Jul 16 at 2015 10:45 PM

2015-07-16T22:45:35-04:00

Not for sure what to think at this point. If this was a terrorist we are in for a very long year. My prayers go out to the families of the fallen.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jul 17 at 2015 12:08 AM

2015-07-17T00:08:47-04:00

Yes I am. Very sad. TSgt Hunter Logan My prayers go out for them, for their families, and for those injured as well. I only hope, one of these days, we realize we are at war, and we can't make that go away if we just ignore it. Until we get aggressive and go on the offense, real offense, this is not going to go away.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Jul 17 at 2015 12:11 AM

2015-07-17T00:11:32-04:00

My heart and prayers goes out to the Marines families and relatives, rest in peace Brothers you served this nation with honors. It is time to revise the policies about fire arms at Recruiting Stations, each Recruiting Station should have a control sturdy cabinet with fire arms in case of an emergency with the SOP outline every detail of situations.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jul 17 at 2015 12:21 AM

2015-07-17T00:21:13-04:00

I did... I think this will change and update regularly. I also heard that tweet was after the attacks.

Response by Capt Mark Strobl made Jul 17 at 2015 12:36 AM

2015-07-17T00:36:57-04:00

God has called four good men today. Prayers.

Response by PO1 Shahida Marmol made Jul 17 at 2015 1:11 AM

2015-07-17T01:11:32-04:00

This is so sad, being on deployment I had no idea. We are not the enemy. Why does things like this keep happening?

Response by SPC Vicky King made Jul 17 at 2015 5:14 AM

2015-07-17T05:14:34-04:00

My deepest condolences to the families of these warriors. Now hopefully this latest attack will force those in denial to name our enemy and clear it's bases of operation out of our country. Otherwise we will continue to be victims of hard and soft attacks. Or is the new accepted 'norm'. Is this what we are now, perpetual victims of terrorists who live openly and freely inside our borders?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 5:42 AM

2015-07-17T05:42:36-04:00

Very sad!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 6:40 AM

2015-07-17T06:40:00-04:00

RIP Marines. The coward chose a soft target, of course, they always do. That's the point of terrorism. Make people feel off balance. But they really will never get American resolve and resilience. This Jordanian enjoyed everything that America has to offer, and then does this? I'm beyond disgusted. On the 4th we had a jihadi arrested one town over, a kid that grew up in the Boston area, Italian no less, dad is a cop, and then he turns into a ISIS lover and want to kill students. I just don't get it. Prayers for the families of the fallen. We know the risks but the families often have to come along for the ride and pray for our safety. Its hard. If you go by a recruiting station today bring them some joe and say thanks, Knock first. God Bless the United States of America!

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Jul 17 at 2015 7:19 AM

2015-07-17T07:19:09-04:00

When you leave the battlefield declaring victory but the enemy has not capitulated or surrendered the war is not over. Obama saying "I ended two wars" is the lie of the century. What he has done is allowed an undefeated enemy to re-arm, retool, regroup, plan, grow, fester and now begin to act. He has refused to combat the new and growing threat of ISIS/ISIL seriously. The enemy is morphing and changing in the asymmetric war we find ourselves in.

Prepare for more of the same I am afraid. We have left ourselves fully exposed, we have also been allowing thousands to immigrate from the middle east with little real knowledge of their background or affiliations not to mention what might be arriving through our southern border.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Jul 17 at 2015 7:50 AM

2015-07-17T07:50:56-04:00

It now appears, based on the time stamp on the tweet, it was sent after the fact.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 17 at 2015 7:57 AM

2015-07-17T07:57:57-04:00

Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, 40, a native of Springfield, Mass., has been identified by family and DoD as one of the four Marines killed. The names of the other dead were not released.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 17 at 2015 8:02 AM

2015-07-17T08:02:44-04:00

Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, 40, a native of Springfield, Mass., has been identified by family as one of the four Marines killed. The names of the other dead were not released.

Response by MSgt David Haupt made Jul 17 at 2015 8:18 AM

2015-07-17T08:18:30-04:00

So why not bring back the Fire Watch (or what ever other branches call it) Arm some CPL or Jr NCOs and have them guard each building and entry points to the base? I have been on the front gates of many AF Installations and the sure presence of armed guards deter people like this. Yes as Security Forces members, we were the "First Line of Defense." I was told as a young airman my job was to stay a live long enough to sound the alarm. We are getting to complacent and needed to wake the F..ck Up! I feel for the families of my brothers who gave it all. Prayers are with them

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 8:20 AM

2015-07-17T08:20:18-04:00

Another Sad day in America. My heart goes out to the families and friends of the fallen.
I see the things going on in the world today and I think it's time for the President, the Congress, and the American people to wake up. We are threatened Internationally and Domestically, Soldiers, Airman, Sailors, and Marines are being hunted down and killed all over the world. Police officers, Firefighters and Civil servants across the country are being killed. Americans of all different ethnic backgrounds, religions, and cultures are being killed. Yet the things that dominate our news are things that can be put on the back burner, things that can be spoken about for 60 seconds or less. We as a people need to come together, not for ourselves but for our Country. It is time to stop being a bystander and act. Not with violence but with our voices and a pen. Truly think about where our Country is going and make the right decision the next time an election comes around, not jus for president but for all of them.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 8:53 AM

2015-07-17T08:53:33-04:00

Another update
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2015/07/17/reports-chattanooga-gunman-was-kuwaiti-born-but-spent-formative-years-in-us/

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Jul 17 at 2015 9:29 AM

2015-07-17T09:29:53-04:00

This is totally unacceptable! God Bless these Marines and their families! Rest in Peace my Brothers!

Response by LTC John Shaw made Jul 17 at 2015 9:42 AM

2015-07-17T09:42:11-04:00

Military Times The full weight of US power needs to be brought on to those who caused and coordinated to cause this act!

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Jul 17 at 2015 9:44 AM

2015-07-17T09:44:50-04:00

Response by SSgt Charles Edwards made Jul 17 at 2015 9:48 AM

2015-07-17T09:48:12-04:00

I am beyond pissed about this. Marines or any service member shouldn't have to be concerned about such risks from terrorist assholes in the US. If this doesn't serve as a wake up call to stomp a mud hole in those ISIS bastards, I don't know what will.

Response by CH (MAJ) William Beaver made Jul 17 at 2015 10:05 AM

2015-07-17T10:05:49-04:00

Time for bulletproof glass in strip mall recruiting offices, or either place the offices inside malls to prevent drive bys

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jul 17 at 2015 10:22 AM

2015-07-17T10:22:11-04:00

I hope we adjust our focus. This is terrorism, and it requires not only a defensive approach, but an offensive one, and aggressive one.

TERRORISM.... By US Military (DOD) and other agency definitions, this is terrorism. It is not about who or where, it is about their intent.... To cause terror... Terrorists come in generally three types... Crusaders, Criminals, and Crazies... Sometimes they can be more than one, or all three. This idiot was driven by ideology (crusader), but the was likely also crazy, and he is clearly a criminal.

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Jul 17 at 2015 10:30 AM

2015-07-17T10:30:00-04:00

Marine Gunnery Sergeant Thomas J. Sullivan of Massachusetts was identified as one of the four Marines killed in the Chattanooga shooting ...

http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/marine-killed-in-chattanooga-shooting-identified/vi-AAd5wrA

Marine killed in Chattanooga shooting identified

Marine Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan of Massachusetts was identified as one of the four Marines killed in the Chattanooga shooting.

Response by LCpl Anthony Hughes made Jul 17 at 2015 10:38 AM

2015-07-17T10:38:27-04:00

Rest in peace my brothers

Response by Capt Lance Gallardo made Jul 17 at 2015 10:50 AM

2015-07-17T10:50:32-04:00

Retired Gen. Mark Hertling just called for more "Gun Control" this morning on CNN in light of the Chattanooga TN Attacks. More evidence to back up my assertions here that the Flag Officers in the US Military today (along with the top DOD Pentagon Civilians) are very hostile to the 2nd Amendment. They would rather consider more gun control (restricting the availability for millions of Americans to lawfully own Ar-15s and the AK-47 type (center fire semi auto rifle, with detachable box magazine, apparently used by the Violent Islamic Fundamentalist terrorist to commit his act of murderous terrorism), along with High capacity magazines (defined by gun hating liberals as holding more than seven or ten bullets), than to seriously consider allowing uniformed service members to open carry or concealed carry as a means of force protection under rules and regulations promulgated by the DOD and as implemented and controlled by commanding officers.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 10:56 AM

2015-07-17T10:56:48-04:00

RIP Devil Dogs

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 11:04 AM

2015-07-17T11:04:36-04:00

HI, TSgt Logan.

The attached article clarifies the tweet.

http://gawker.com/isis-didnt-actually-tweet-a-warning-about-the-chattan [login to see]

ISIS Didn't Actually Tweet a "Warning" About the Chattanooga Shooting

This afternoon, an apparent ISIS supporter tweeted the above image along with the text “O Americans Dogs soon YOU Will see wonders #Chattanooga #USA #ISIS,” and some in the right-wing media reported that the tweet constituted an advance warning about the deadly attack. The only problem: It was posted long after the shooting began.

Response by PO3 Steven Sherrill made Jul 17 at 2015 11:25 AM

2015-07-17T11:25:54-04:00

So now that it has been confirmed that the person was a Muslim, I am going to be the asshole who asks: "when is the Muslim community that continues asking not to be judged by the actions of a few going to come out and renounce these people as the shitbags they are?"
Instead of asking for religious tolerance, they should be pro actively showing that Islam is not what these people have twisted it into. I have come to a point that when I hear not to judge, I interpret as I am embarrassed by my faith and not willing to stand up for my beliefs. It shows to me that the ones who will not renounce this activity, but beg for tolerance are weak people. Weak in the mind. Weak in the spirit.
I do not blame Islam for the behavior of these morons. I do think that the Muslim Community has an obligation to themselves, their folk, and the country to educate their folk on the true meaning of Islam to temper the zealot rhetoric. This is just my opinion.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Jul 17 at 2015 11:59 AM

2015-07-17T11:59:42-04:00

I posted the following at 1500 EST on July 16 under the question “Will ISIS take credit for the 4 US Marines and 1 police officer gunned down today in Chattanooga, Tenn?” RallyPoint merged it this morning.
"Four Marines were killed and a police officer wounded when a gunman opened fire on two military facilities in Chattanooga, Tenn., the Associated Press reports. Official sources tell the AP and Fox News that the gunman is dead. "
I expect this is the result of an ISIS wannabee; but, so far no one has claimed credit
[1700 July 16 update]
Associated Press states that ISIS tweeted #Chattanooga at 1045, 15 minutes before the shooting!
The shooter's name is Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez. He was killed during the attack.
Since you all posted responses to the question I posed, I wanted to give you the chance to weigh in since our responses and comments have been purged.
SFC Private RallyPoint Member, Capt Richard I P., SPC Andrew Griffin, Sgt Private RallyPoint Member, SGT Frank Leonardo. Sgt Richard Buckner, SGT Private RallyPoint Member, SPC Private RallyPoint Member, PO3 Steven Sherrill, SFC Michael Hasbun, SGT Jeremiah B., SSG John Thornton, TSgt Joshua Copeland, SN Greg Wright, CPT Private RallyPoint Member. TSgt Hunter Logan, GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad, LCDR Private RallyPoint Member .

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 17 at 2015 12:29 PM

2015-07-17T12:29:23-04:00

I want to thank everyone for their kind words, emails, prayers, and for their support during this horrific tragedy. I will be taking some time away from this thread to devote myself to my community and to the fallen. Thank you all again and stay strong.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jul 17 at 2015 1:46 PM

2015-07-17T13:46:54-04:00

Maybe we should arm the Armed Forces.
https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/arm-the-armed-forces

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jul 17 at 2015 3:05 PM

2015-07-17T15:05:27-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan, since it happened I have being following, recall that in previous comments I have addresses the future. Prior to retiring in Jan 2015, my reserve unit issued warning about us driving while in uniform, because intel had warned about this. This is just the beginning and that is why Coceal Carry and training and practice is needed; stay vigilant.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jul 17 at 2015 3:09 PM

2015-07-17T15:09:03-04:00

TSgt Hunter Logan, since it happened I have being following, recall that in previous comments I have addresses the future. Prior to retiring in Jan 2015, my reserve unit issued warning about us driving while in uniform, because intel had warned about this. This is just the beginning and that is why Conceal Carry and training and practice is needed; stay vigilant.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Jul 17 at 2015 5:26 PM

2015-07-17T17:26:43-04:00

SSG Michael O'Malley, Sad to say that we were warned about these attacks about two years ago, my reserve unit prior to me retiring this January required that service members cover their uniform tops while driving as a precaution. I am very much in favor of Conceal Carry with heavy emphasis on training and practice done by the unit. Given that the war has come home now.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Jul 17 at 2015 8:56 PM

2015-07-17T20:56:27-04:00

What stands out to me most, is that while Obama commented about the "investigation nation" that will be ran, he said not a word about what we will do once we find out whatever is discovered, meaning no response to Attack Of War on US Soil shall be given (insert list of thoughts as to the Why Not).

Response by LTC Dr Richard Wasserman, LTC (R) made Jul 18 at 2015 1:18 AM

2015-07-18T01:18:02-04:00

My flag is flying at half mast in honor of the fallen. I put it out this morning.

Response by SSG Keven Lahde made Jul 18 at 2015 5:12 AM

2015-07-18T05:12:11-04:00

SSG Michael O'Malley SSG this is a sad for the Armed Forces. Semper Fi my fellow Marines. May god not have any damn mercy who committed this act of violence and get pay back ten times worse. My prayers to all the families affect as well to all the brother and sisters in arms. RIP and you may be gone, but never forgotten!!!!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 3:03 PM

2015-07-18T15:03:34-04:00

Recruiting is high pressure, and unfortunately it could result in an incident in house. Most recruiters are NOT volunteers. One solution would be to assign an MP with administrative duty's only, no recruiting. There is also news of Vets and retirees with CC permits standing guard outside the stations.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 18 at 2015 3:39 PM

2015-07-18T15:39:28-04:00

Open letter to the President. Sir, our Country is under attack on our own soil. As commander -in-chief, I urge you to declare war on the Islamic State and bring to bare all of our military resources to eliminate this threat. The recent attacks on our military are no different than the attacks on the Twin Towers, the USS Cole to name a few. Only the number of dead and wounded are different. The death of one of our service member or civilian's on our own soil, is one too many. Protect us, as your oath of office dictates, and bring the fight to them. Our fate rests in your hands. Sincerely, MSGT Stephen R. Oles, MSG,USA (Ret)

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2015 2:43 AM

2015-07-19T02:43:55-04:00

Ironic. There are armed guards at the Social Security Office, but not at Reserve Centers or recruiting stations.

Response by PO2 Robert Lee made Jul 19 at 2015 3:59 AM

2015-07-19T03:59:11-04:00

Actually that was 1 Navy, and 4 Marines, 1 Cop and 1 Gunman

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Jul 19 at 2015 2:23 PM

2015-07-19T14:23:33-04:00

Hey brother, I'm just down the road from you in Dalton, SSG Michael O'Malley. Our thoughts and prayers are with your community which feels just as much our community as well. We're up there all the time to chill out downtown and watch the Lookouts. I never thought I'd live to see the day my home area would be subject to something so evil like this. thoughts and prayers are also with the murdered Marines' and Corpman's families. My blood is still boiling over this.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 21 at 2015 8:50 AM

2015-07-21T08:50:11-04:00

Why does it matter where the shooter was from? What about all the home grown terrorists we have seen?

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Jul 21 at 2015 9:01 AM

2015-07-21T09:01:39-04:00

I don't care if the guy was from Michigan! He was a Muslim and is faith was rooted in Islam - and he KILLED 5 Marines. Sorry, that's Islamic Terrorism in my book!

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jul 21 at 2015 9:03 AM

2015-07-21T09:03:53-04:00

How do you reconcile drug abusing, manic-depressives with semi-automatic weapons?

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Jul 21 at 2015 10:06 AM

2015-07-21T10:06:11-04:00

Are you suggesting there can be no radical islamists from Kuwait or Saudi Arabia or Jordan etc. Just because he was from Kuwait (an ally) does not mean he wasn't radicalized. We are getting a better look at him and his writings and thoughts on islam and martyrdom etc. His trip to Jordan as well. I am not sure what your point is supposed to be here.

I think there is little doubt he did what he did because of his religious belief, the targets he selected, his writings on martyrdom and likely many other bits and pieces of information that will come out. You appear to be of the mindset that he happens to be muslim, he went on a shooting spree to kill American servicemen and ended up being martyred and that he wrote about these very things as being dots we should not connect. Is that right?

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Jul 21 at 2015 10:07 AM

2015-07-21T10:07:23-04:00

All it tells me is that national origin does not matter when it comes to "Radicalization". What matters is Religion. What I haven't heard is what denomination he was from Sunni or Shia.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Jul 21 at 2015 12:18 PM

2015-07-21T12:18:37-04:00

The better question would be why does it matter that he is from Kuwait? Are you suggesting that his motives weren't driven by radical Islam, which is contrary to indications of his martyristic blogs only a short period before carrying out his cowardly attack? How about the anti-U.S. Writings he has penned out a little over a year ago? Are you suggesting that terrorists/radicals can only originate in countries other than our "friendly" allies? Interestingly enough you make a huge deal out of him being Kuwaiti but he has lived in the U.S. For a large portion of his life and all of his adult life. He graduated high school from Red Bank High just up the road from where I live. He graduated from University of Tennessee in Chattanooga, again just up the road from where I live. He even participated in the hugely popular MMA circuits, it doesn't get much more Anerican than that. How quickly people forget homegrown terrorists don't have to identify specifically with religion as well. Timothy McVey, a veteran turned radical extremist with no religious connection to his attack? Or Eric Robert Rudolph, another veteran but dishonorably discharged for drug use, was also another radical extremist who declared his attacks in the name of Christianity, which made me look bad as a Christian? This Mahammad Abdulazeez had even researched religious justification for violence. Does that sound like a hobby to you?

My point being, what does it matter where he is from? If it waddles like a duck, wicked like a duck, flies like a duck, and swims like a duck, well it must be a duck.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Jul 21 at 2015 1:40 PM

2015-07-21T13:40:18-04:00

We don't reconcile where he was from. Look to Timothy McVey. Look to Ted Kazynski (Unabomber), Look at Bin Ladan, Look at Hussian (ft hood shooter).... Terrorists come in all flavors....some are home grown, some are foreign born. Some are raised with this type of ideal, some are "converted".... Treat the terrorist. Not the country he/she came from.... (although in some cases, I can almost agree with treating the country or region!).

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2015 8:19 PM

2015-07-21T20:19:48-04:00

This RallyPoint member is listed among the victims:
https://www.rallypoint.com/profiles/ [login to see] -field-artillery-operations-man-m-battery-3-14

And that kind of brings it home - even more - for us, I think.

SSgt Operations Chief at M Battery, 3/14 | 0848: Field Artillery Operations Man | RallyPoint

View the full military profile of SSgt (Join to see), Operations Chief at M Battery, 3/14 | Chattanooga, TN | RallyPoint professional military profile.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 21 at 2015 10:45 PM

2015-07-21T22:45:15-04:00

So if they were armed are we still going yell to have recruiters across the country armed? The point would be made that they were armed in Tennessee and we still have 5 dead service members.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Jul 22 at 2015 12:15 AM

2015-07-22T00:15:38-04:00

They were at the Navy Support Center, not the recruiting station.....

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jul 22 at 2015 1:23 AM

2015-07-22T01:23:39-04:00

Hooah... They also need long guns close at hand... sad, but true.

Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Jul 22 at 2015 1:27 AM

2015-07-22T01:27:44-04:00

Good. Glad to see they took the initiative.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jul 22 at 2015 4:15 AM

2015-07-22T04:15:17-04:00

Being TN and Military Folks, I'm not surprised. My Dept Head in Sugar Grove, WV (Marine converted to Navy) Had an Arsenal at home, In the safe at work and in his Vehicle.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 22 at 2015 7:45 AM

2015-07-22T07:45:24-04:00

Now that is what I am talking about leave it to the LCDR to be packing and defend his command. Who wants to bet it was the Marine that fired the fatal blow? We all know those guys can fire a gun better than any civilian LEO.
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/07/22/navy-officer-murdered-marine-fired-back-at-chattanooga-gunman/

Navy officer, Marine reportedly returned fire at Chattanooga gunman

A Navy officer and one of the Marines killed in last week's attack in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Response by SSG Michael O'Malley made Jul 24 at 2015 11:54 AM

2015-07-24T11:54:08-04:00

Funeral details for David Wyatt.
http://www.newschannel9.com/news/features/files/WyattProgramFinal.pdf