Two dedicated veterans are standing guard in front of an Alabama Armed Forces Career Center

Photo c/o WHNT
Photo c/o WHNT

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Two veterans in Huntsville are taking the safety and security of military recruiters into their own hands, standing guard at one of the city’s armed forces recruitment centers.

In the aftermath of the Chattanooga shootings last week which left four Marines and one Navy sailor dead, the gun-free zone policies of military recruitment centers has received heightened scrutiny.

Perhaps one of the most striking images from the attack has been that of the “no firearms allowed” sign surrounded by bullet holes and shattered glass.

In response, Alabama Governor Robert Bentley has ordered the state’s National Guard leadership to develop a plan to arm national guardsmen while they are on duty.


Related: Alabama senator says this sign should replace all gun free zone signs nationwide


Much like the targeted recruitment center in Chattanooga, Huntsville’s facility is situated in a strip mall surrounded by private shops and restaurants.

The Huntsville veterans told local CBS affiliate WHNT they plan to stand guard all day, and will return until the military changes its policy and allows recruiters to be armed.