Concealed carry policy: differences between Eglin and Hurlburt Field

  • Published
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
The 96th Test Wing commander received several inquiries as a result of changes to the Hurlburt Field policy regarding carrying concealed weapons on base compared to Eglin’s policy.

According to Col. Matthew Higer, 96th TW vice commander, the Eglin policy remains unchanged. The transport of firearms onto the installation without specific credentials is prohibited.

There are distinct differences between Eglin’s and Hurlburt Field’s policies conceal carry permit holders should be aware of prior to accessing each base.

The only personnel authorized to carry concealed privately-owned firearms on Eglin are Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act-credentialed personnel assigned to the 96th Security Forces Squadron, 919th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron, and 1st Special Operations Security Forces Squadron, according to Higer.

 

The installation commander has the authority to alter privately-owned firearms policies based on local threat assessments, installation and personnel needs and activities. For example, Hurlburt Field has an active rifle and pistol club requiring the transport of various firearms to and from the location. 

 

In addition, policies may change based on guidance directed from Air Force or the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

 

“Our current local threat does not support expanding the authorization to other personnel in possession of concealed carry licenses or permits,” said Higer.  “If the local threat changes in the future, the installation commander will reevaluate this decision.”

 

Hurlburt Field’s policy authorizes “carry” for all properly credentialed LEOSA personnel, as well as all other Florida concealed carry weapon permit holders and those from states honoring Florida licenses – also known as reciprocity states.

 

According to the policy, detailed in a June 1 memo from the 1st Special Operations Wing commander, the permitted individuals are authorized to transport privately-owned firearms in personal vehicles while driving on Hurlburt Field with the firearms secure. The firearms must stay in vehicles at all times.

 

The two policies may be confusing for those traveling between the two installations. Personnel traveling from Hurlburt Field to Eglin, who are not LEOSA-credentialed and assigned to the 96th SFS, 919th or 1st SOSFS may not bring firearms onto Eglin.

There was concern about inconsistencies in the two policies from Florida conceal carry weapon permit holders who require travel between the two installations on a regular basis, according to Higer.

 

“The only personnel who need to transport firearms as part of their official duties will more than likely meet all requirements and be authorized to do so between installations,” said Higer. “Though we understand the frustration of those who aren’t authorized to transport under Eglin’s requirements, as of now, the policy will remain as is.”

 

Personnel should check with the security forces of the installation they are entering to ensure compliance with local directives. For more information on Eglin’s policy, contact the 96th SFS at 850-882-2502.