Recruiting stations are soft targets and are a prime target for terrorist. Would you carry your POW concealed while in uniform?

2015-07-16T17:00:55-04:00

http://usmclife.com/2015/07/marine-corps-recruiting-center-targeted-4-marines-gunman-killed-in-tennessee-attack/

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Jul 16 at 2015 5:06 PM

2015-07-16T17:06:05-04:00

Personally, I think it's WAY past time we started having serious discussion about repealing the restriction of certain members being armed in the duty sections. Especially at soft targets such as admin offices, recruiting centers, and the like.

On-base issue of weapons wouldn't be that difficult. Security Forces, Military Police, and other armed guards do that routinely as they come on shift. Working out logistics for off-post locations would be a bit more involved and I'll freely admit I don't know the solution to that one.

Were it permitted, I would most certainly be armed with my POW where practical.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 9:20 PM

2015-07-16T21:20:04-04:00

Not without prior approval. It's one thing to carry and something does pop up and you defend yourself. The next is before that evens gets a chance the military will have that @$@ counseled and facing punitive actions.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 11:03 PM

2015-07-16T23:03:18-04:00

I would if I could. I believe that Soldiers should be able to. I have a concealled carry liscence and carry off post everyday. On fobs in deployed areas they have Soldiers carry magazines in their weapons around while others have their magazines in there pocket. They call them guardian angels. The thing I see the Army doing if this was to ever happen would be to give it to Senior leaders or Officers. I think that is a horrible idea. Just because your a 1SG or CPT does not mean that you are a safer bet with a firearm. If you are legally allowed to carry according to the federal Govt off post, then why not on post?

Response by MSgt Manuel Diaz made Jul 17 at 2015 12:10 AM

2015-07-17T00:10:03-04:00

I won't get that opportunity; however if I were I would indeed keep it close until authorized to wear it open carry military conforming to uniform

Response by COL Charles Williams made Jul 17 at 2015 12:19 AM

2015-07-17T00:19:17-04:00

Yes, of course, if it were authorized. The DOD needs to realize we are at war around the world and at home, the we are the target, and we need to adjust our antiquated security thinking and policies. Recruiting stations need to be armed (as do many places)... and unfortunately, with the weaponry evil doers bring, a concealed pistol is probably not the best solution. When I am in a gun fight. I want the biggest gun(s) and the most ammo.

Response by SGT William Howell made Jul 17 at 2015 7:12 AM

2015-07-17T07:12:09-04:00

I think that they should have Claymores at the doors. Just a clacker away from being in the pink mist club. Those Marines have been in my thoughts all night. If this had happened pre 9-11 America would have wanted blood. Now we are just used to this type of behavior and while we think it is sad nobody but us military care like we should.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Jul 17 at 2015 7:47 AM

2015-07-17T07:47:29-04:00

They need to be allowed to protect themselves. This is not the first recruiting station to be attacks resulting in death and injury.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 17 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-07-17T15:58:33-04:00

I think that's a sensitive situation. I'm not sure whether I would be for it or against it. The role of the recruiter requires them to enter people's homes and school(examples) How would that work? I'm Not quite sure.