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National Guardsmen Deploying to the Capitol Now Armed with Lethal Weapons

The Pentagon has approved National Guardsmen deploying to Washington, D.C. to carry lethal weapons.

The troops are being sent to protect the Capitol and will stay through the inauguration in response to fears that armed protesters may attack.

Previously the Guardsmen were only carrying protective gear.  What specific weapon they will be carrying now isn’t known, but typically they deploy with the M-9 handgun.


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“There’s no hiding the fact that soldiers and airmen do have lethal force with them,” stated Army Brig. Gen. David Wood, joint staff director of the Pennsylvania National Guard.

“How those rules of the use of force are engaged is just dependent on the scenario and in that situation. We are going to try to de-escalate as much as we can [before taking up weapons],” Wood declared. “The way we deploy it will depend on the situation and the commander’s intent.”

Guardsmen are well trained to do whatever they can to de-escalate a situation before having to resort to using their weapons.

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The decision on whether Guard units on the District’s streets will also be armed is still up in the air, and should be decided in the coming days by Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy.

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Comments

  1. Ed VonderSmith says

    Wish the National Grove a safe and successful duty.
    I was there back in the 60’s in Maryland, Federalized several times. STAY SAFE !
    God Bless all of you !

  3. Barry T Borella says

    If they were deployed without weapons and ammunition it would not be a deterrent – and it would put their lives in danger.

  4. Mrs. Rosemary Moore says

    Please see who petitioned to be on the ballot as it defines who’s elected eventually.

  5. Jim Fowler says

    This is a Very Dark Day for the people of the United States. There is more hate and turmoil here in the Land of the Free then in most of our enemies backyards.
    Why are we allowing this! Yes I’m saying why are we. The Preamble to the Constitution states “We the people” not this group or this group. Wake up America, before it’s too late. Yes, I’m a Veteran.
    Thank you