Public security

Acknowledging domestic terror threat, Pentagon says troops, recruiters can carry concealed guns

U.S. military personnel can now request to carry concealed handguns for protection at government facilities, according to new Defense Department directive issued last week in response to a series of deadly shootings over the last seven years. 

While service members already were authorized to carry weapons as part of specific job responsibilities, the new policy allows them to apply to carry their privately owned firearms “for personal protection not associated with the performance of official duties,” the directive says. 

It also clarifies when military recruiters can be armed, said Army Maj. Jamie Davis, a Defense Department spokesman.