Hegseth signs memo allowing requests to carry personal firearms on bases

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum Thursday ordering a major change to base security policy and allowing service members to request permission to carry personal firearms for self-defense amid growing concerns about threats to U.S. facilities.

In his announcement on social media, Hegseth said all American citizens have a God-given right to bear arms for protection under the Second Amendment.

However, he said this right was not granted to uniformed soldiers “who have been trained to the highest and unwavering standards”.

“These war warriors entrusted with the security of our nation are no less entitled than any other American to exercise their God-given right to keep and bear arms,” Hegseth said. “Our warriors defend the right of others to carry. They must be able to carry themselves.”

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Citing recent tragedies at Fort Stewart, Holloman Air Force Base and Pensacola Naval Air Station, Hegseth said the events “make clear” that “some threats are closer to home than we would like.”

“In situations like these, minutes are a lifetime, and our service members have the courage and training to make those precious short minutes count,” he said. “Prior to today, it was nearly impossible for War Department personnel to obtain permission to carry and store their own personal weapons in accordance with the laws of the state in which we operate our facilities.”

Although soldiers can currently possess personal firearms, storing and carrying weapons on federal grounds, including on military installations, was previously not allowed.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth administers the enlistment oath to a group of National Guard soldiers at the base of the Washington Monument in Washington, Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. (Kevin Wolf/AP)

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Those in possession of personal weapons had to register their weapons with base authorities, and storage was generally controlled by the facility.

Duty presence was generally limited to military police, security, and official duty personnel.

“Effectively, our bases across the country were gun-free zones,” Hegseth said. “You can’t carry it unless you’re trained or you’re a military police officer. You can’t bring your own firearm into the post for your personal safety. Well, not like that anymore.”

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The proclamation signed Thursday instructs installation commanders to allow requests to carry privately owned firearms, assuming it is necessary for personal protection.

If a request is denied, Hegseth said the reason for that denial will be put in writing and the basis for that instruction will be explained in detail.

“Again, there’s an assumption that service members can get the Second Amendment through direct mail,” he said. “Not all enemies are foreign, not all are outside our borders. Some are domestic. Today, I am signing to affirm your God-given right to self-defense, and I am proud to do so.”

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Hegseth did not specify whether training or certification would be required or whether the storage and handling of the weapons would be regulated.

It is also unclear whether there will be uniform rules across all military branches.