Altus Air Force Base News

 

Questions about personal firearms answered

  • Published
  • By Maj. Michael J. Jewell
  • 97th Security Forces commander
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides the right for Americans to keep and bear arms. As defenders of our constitution, military members retain that right. To ensure safety, maintain good order and discipline, there are additional provisions for those possessing firearms on Altus AFB.

Staff Sgt. Matthew Treadwell, 97th Security Forces Squadron armory NCO in charge, reminds all Altus AFB members and residents that firearm registration is mandatory for all individuals living on the base.

"Individuals living in privatized housing are required to register weapons with security forces at the SF armory in Building 130," Treadwell said. "Dormitory residents are required to register and store their firearms in the armory. At no time are weapons allowed in the dormitories. Additionally, individuals living in temporary quarters must register and store privately owned weapons in the armory as well."

The process is simple and direct. Members will be given three copies of an Air Force Form 1314, Firearms Registration, which must be signed by their commander and returned to the armory within three duty days. The member will retain one copy, one copy will go to the unit program coordinator and the final copy will be returned to the SF armory.

There are specific rules for transporting weapons on base as well. Individuals may only transport privately-owned weapons on Altus AFB when driving directly to and from the armory for storage, their residence in housing or to the base firing range for scheduled special shooting events. Individuals must notify the entry controller that they have a privately owned weapon in their vehicle at the gate and their destination. The members must retain their copy of the AF Form 1314 on their person when transporting weapons. All weapons must be unloaded, with the ammunition separate from the weapon.

"Individuals storing firearms in the armory may check out their weapon temporarily, to be returned within 72 hours, unless they are going on leave, temporary duty or have written permission from their first sergeant or commander," Treadwell said. "Concealed weapons permits issued by civil authorities are not valid on military installations without the expressed written approval of the base commander."

For more information on registering weapons, contact the 97th SF Armory at 481-5882 or 97th SF Base Defense Operations Center at 481-7444.