ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The Andrews armory serves National Capital Region customers everyday, varying from members of the 316th Security Forces Squadron, transient weapons and private gun owners 24/7.
Like all of Team Andrews, the armory prides itself on providing outstanding customer service.
"Our mission is to safely and expeditiously arm and equip security forces and outside organizations to fulfill mission requirements," said Tech. Sgt. Robert Corradi, 316 SFS NCO in charge of the armory. "At the same time, our goal is to provide top-notch safety and service to our fellow military members. You know, a lot of the folks who come by here have just put in a 10-, 12- or 14-hour day - long hours - so it's our goal to make their job just that much easier, and if we end up putting a smile on their faces at the end of that long day, then the service we provide is just that much better."
Among the many weapons stored at the armory, including M-4s, M-9s, M-16A2s, weapons stored for transient personnel, the armory also stores land mobile radios, pepper spray, tactical expandable batons and other items.
Per armory regulations, SFOI 31-207, all firearms being stored on Andrews have to be registered with the base armory via AF Form 1314 within 72 hours of receiving the firearm or arriving on station. Personnel residing in military housing can store their weapons and ammunition in their quarters, but may need to store them in the armory if directed by either their commander or first sergeant if the residence is deemed unsafe for firearms.
Dorm residents must store all firearms in the base armory.
Given the huge responsibility of the armory and those it arms, Sergeant Corradi said he and those who serve alongside him make it a point to provide superior service to each and every person who approaches its window.
"Our job here at the Armory helps ensure the safety of the base and all of the distinguished visitors our base serves," Sergeant Corradi said.