Hegseth Signs Memo Allowing Troops to Carry Personal Firearms on Military Bases
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signed a memo that permits military service members to request authorization to carry their personal firearms on military installations, including bases, naval yards, and recruitment centers. The policy, announced on Thursday, aims to enable soldiers and other personnel to defend themselves in the event of an attack, according to Hegseth.
Loosening Current Firearm Policies
While the full text of the memo has not been publicly released, it appears to relax the existing policy, which allows personnel to obtain permission on a case-by-case basis, requires registration with base authorities, and mandates secure storage of weapons. In a social media video, Hegseth argued that current policies have effectively turned U.S. military installations into "gun-free" zones, leaving residents and workers vulnerable.
This perspective aligns with views held by second amendment advocates and gun rights activists, who have filed lawsuits against such policies nationwide. Hegseth emphasized that service members, trained to high standards, deserve the same rights as other Americans to keep and bear arms.
Alignment with State Laws and Approval Process
The memo specifies that permission to carry must comply with state gun laws, including permit requirements and restrictions on weapon types and ammunition capacity. If a superior denies a service member's request, the decision must be accompanied by a detailed explanation. Hegseth stated that the presumption is in favor of allowing service members to exercise their second amendment rights on post.
Historical Context and Recent Incidents
Hegseth cited several shootings to justify the policy, including the December 2019 incident at Pensacola naval base, an August 2025 shooting at Fort Stewart in Georgia, and a March 17 shooting at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico. He noted that in such emergencies, every minute is critical, and trained personnel can make a difference.
This is not the first federal action on this issue. In November 2016, under the Obama administration, the Pentagon issued a directive creating a pathway for similar permissions, following a 2015 shooting in Chattanooga, Tennessee. For over two decades prior, personal firearms were generally prohibited on bases except for security or law enforcement duties.
Support and Implications
Hegseth's directive goes further by simplifying the approval process and mandating transparency in denials. Mayra Guillen, sister of Vanessa Guillen, a soldier killed in 2020, expressed support on social media, suggesting that carrying a firearm might have saved her sister's life.
The move has sparked debate, with proponents highlighting self-defense benefits, while critics raise concerns about safety and escalation risks on military properties.
