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New Policy Allows Off-Duty Troops to Carry Personal Firearms on Bases

KVIA•Friday, April 3, 2026 at 5:50 PM•Heriberto Perez Lara

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AI Summary

The U.S. Department of War has announced a significant policy change allowing service members to request permission to carry their personal firearms while off-duty on military installations. Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that this decision aligns with the Second Amendment rights of all Americans, including military personnel. The new directive comes in response to several active-shooter incidents on military bases, which Hegseth cited as reasons for the policy shift. This change aims to enhance personal protection for service members, reflecting a growing concern for safety on military properties. The policy is consistent with the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016.

Key Details: • Service members can now request to carry personal firearms while off-duty on military properties. • The policy change is in response to recent active-shooter incidents on military installations. • Secretary Hegseth's memo directs installation commanders to approve requests for personal protection. • The new guidelines will be incorporated into War Department Manual 5200.08 for security measures.

military fort-bliss policy firearms second-amendment

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Fort BlissPete HegsethHolloman Air Force BasePentagonU.S. Department of WarNaval Air Station PensacolaFort Stewart

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