Since the Fort Hood shooting in 2009, many have been calling for an end to gun-free zones at military facilities. It’s taken six years and dozens of deaths, but that change is finally coming.
In light of the recent Chattanooga shooting, governors in six states have announced plans to allow, and in some cases even require, National Guardsmen to be armed while at military facilities. While this is only a first step, it could be the start of some significant changes in how the men and women in uniform are able to defend themselves when the battle comes to their doorstep.
“It has become clear that our military personnel must have the ability to defend themselves against these type of attacks,” Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement after issuing an executive order Saturday.
“Arming the National Guard at these bases will not only serve as a deterrent to anyone wishing to do harm to our service men and women, but will enable them to protect those living and working on the base,” Gov. Abbott added.
