NASHVILLE — In the wake of Thursday’s slaying of four Marines at two military installation’s in Chattanooga, U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn., says he plans to introduce a bill allowing U.S. military personnel with firearms training to carry handguns on military bases and other installations
The 4th Congressional District lawmaker said he plans to introduce the bill on Monday.
“Like so many in Tennessee and across our nation, I am heartbroken, angered and frustrated over the heinous acts that took place in Chattanooga,” DesJarlais said in a statement.
The South Pittsburg congressman said after speaking with “countless folks in my district … one thing is clear: we must do something to help prevent another Chattanooga.”
He said “Enhancing Safety at Military Installations Act” would repeal bans on military personnel carrying firearms on military recruitment facilities and bases.
“Our men and women in uniform are owed the right to protect themselves and others while in service of our country,” DesJarlais said. “While it is uncertain as to whether this legislation would have made an impact in this particular situation, it is clear that our military personnel have become targets, not just abroad, but on American soil as well. Therefore they must be given the tools to defend themselves.”
The gunman in Thursday’s attacks, identified as Hixson resident Mohammad Youssef Abdulazeez, was killed.
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