Can we please dispel this myth that military people are at full battle rattle 24/7? [View all]

[MindPilot]

There are at least three posts I've seen today asking "how could a shooting rampage happen at a military facility what with every body carrying around bazookas and machine guns?"

Most military people get through their entire tour of duty without ever touching a firearm after boot camp.

Personal possession of a firearm is prohibited on-base, they must be stored in the armory, and have to be checked out if you want to go hunting or to the range.

On base the only people who have guns are MPs and those actively engaged in training. The guns you do see, like the ones used in parades and formations, are mock-ups.

So to repeat, for the most part military installations and facilities are gun-free zones, with some of the tightest rules and harshest penalties there are.