In a significant move to bolster security protocols, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has granted authorization for the nearly 2,000 National Guard personnel currently deployed to Washington, D.C., to be armed while on duty. This decision empowers troops to carry weapons when directly required by their specific assignments, marking a substantial shift in their role within the capital.
The authorization paves the way for the National Guard to take on a more active and expanded security posture. While their primary mission often involves providing logistical support and a visible presence, this new directive allows for a broader range of duties that may necessitate being armed, potentially including the protection of critical infrastructure or high-profile events.
This development reflects ongoing assessments of security needs in the nation's capital. Officials have indicated that the measure is a precautionary step designed to ensure that Guardsmen are fully prepared to respond to a wider spectrum of potential scenarios, ensuring they have the necessary tools to protect both themselves and the public should the need arise. The move underscores a continued commitment to maintaining stability and order in the District.
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