Defense Secretary Hegseth to Allow Troops to Carry Personal Weapons on Bases

New policy aims to address recent shootings on military installations.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:24am

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A fragmented, abstract painting depicting a hand holding a handgun, with the image repeated in overlapping geometric shapes in shades of green and grey, conveying a sense of motion and tension around the issue of personal firearms on military installations.A new Defense Department policy aims to empower service members to protect themselves on military bases, but raises concerns about increased gun violence.Fort Stewart Today

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that he will sign a memo allowing service members to carry personal firearms onto military bases, citing the Second Amendment and recent shootings at bases across the country. The current policy prohibits military personnel from carrying personal weapons on base without permission from a senior commander.

Why it matters

This policy change comes in response to concerns about the ability of service members to defend themselves during active shooter situations on military installations. However, some experts argue that increased access to personal firearms could lead to an increase in gun-related suicides and other violence.

The details

Hegseth said the new policy will direct base commanders to allow requests from troops to carry privately owned firearms 'with the presumption that it is necessary for personal protection.' Any denial of a request must be explained in detail and in writing. The current policy requires military personnel to officially check out guns from secure storage to use at on-base hunting areas or shooting ranges.

  • On April 3, 2026, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the new policy.

The players

Pete Hegseth

The current U.S. Secretary of Defense, appointed by the President in 2025.

Tanya Schardt

Senior counsel at the Brady gun violence prevention organization, which opposes the policy change.

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What they’re saying

“Effectively, our bases across the country were gun-free zones. Unless you're training or unless you are a military policeman, you couldn't carry, you couldn't bring your own firearm for your own personal protection onto post.”

— Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of Defense

“If there is a problem with violent crime on these installations, then the Secretary of Defense has an obligation to alert the American people and describe how he's working to prevent that crime.”

— Tanya Schardt, Senior Counsel, Brady gun violence prevention organization

What’s next

The new policy will go into effect immediately once Hegseth signs the memo. Base commanders will be required to establish procedures for service members to request and receive approval to carry personal firearms on the installation.

The takeaway

This policy change highlights the ongoing debate over balancing service members' self-defense rights with concerns about increased gun violence and suicide risk on military bases. The success of the new approach will depend on how it is implemented and monitored by the Defense Department.