Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

A Security Forces defender stands at the 316th Security Support Squadron armory window to receive the weapons and equipment for his shift on Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. The armory also houses weapons for general officers and personnel living on base.

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

Senior Airman Cindy Argueta, 316th Security Support Squadron armorer, hands off an M4 carbine to Airman 1st Class Julian Almazan, 316th Security Forces Squadron defender, before his shift on Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. Defenders are issued a minimum of one lethal force weapon, one less than lethal force weapon, and a radio before each shift.

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

Senior Airman Cindy Argueta, 316th Security Support Squadron armorer, gets a two-way radio for a defender to use during their shift at Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. Radios allow for defenders to communicate with each other and the base defense operations center.

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

Beretta M9 firearms are lined up in a drawer at Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. The Beretta M9 is being phased out. It will be replaced with the Sig Sauer M18.

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

A M18 clearing procedures list hangs on a wall in the armory at Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. These procedures ensure the safety of everyone in and around the armory.

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

Technical Sgt. Adam Rademacher, 316th Security Forces Squadron flight sergeant, runs through clearing procedures with Senior Airman Maurice Sanders, 316th Security Forces Squadron defender, at Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. Defenders must clear their weapons before and after every shift.

Armory Maintains the Mission during COVID-19

A Beretta M9 firearm and the magazine rests in a padded case at Joint Base Andrews, Md., June 17, 2020. These firearms are for general officers; they have the option to buy the M9 after they retire.

The mission continues for the 316th Security Support Squadron armory at Joint Base Andrews despite COVID-19. The 316th SSPTS armory ensures the base is protected.

Armorers issue out essential equipment and firearms to the 316th Security Forces Group defenders to support law enforcement, flightline security and presidential support missions.

“We maintain 24/7 accountability of all firearms and equipment used to defend and deter the base against threats,” said Staff Sgt. Andrew Schick, 316th SSPTS armory non-commissioned officer in-charge. “An incredible amount of effort goes into our work, which requires heightened attention to detail and forward thinking.”

Threats haven’t stopped because of COVID-19 and neither has the armory. Armory personnel have worked with their squadron’s supply section to take precautions such as wearing masks and gloves during issue and turn in. They also sanitize weapons, equipment, and their work area. Safety and security go hand-in-hand.

“If we don’t maintain and issue out weapons and equipment to on-duty defenders, then they won’t be able to provide protection and security to personnel and resources on base,” said Schick.

The armory also supports units and personnel outside of the 316th SFG.

“We provide support to the 459th Security Forces Squadron, 113^th SFS, Pentagon personnel, U.S. Navy weapons, and military members passing through the National Capital Region who need to store their weapon temporarily,” said Staff Sgt. Kyle Green, 316th SSPTS assistant armory NCOIC. “We also house over 30 side arms for general officers and personal firearms for those who reside on base.”

If you recently had a permanent change of station to JBA, or moved on base, don’t forget to go by the armory, located in building 1845, to register your firearm. For any questions, call the armory by DSN: 981-6669 or commercial: 301-981-6669.