Arms and Armor: The Weapon-Carrying Rig of Military Officers

In the context of the military, particularly within the naval and infantry branches, the issue of which officers carry what weapons has raised many questions. Understanding the specific rules and situations that allow and dictate the types of weapons carried by military officers is crucial.

Navy Regulations and Sidearms

Within the Navy, certain officers are granted the authority to carry sidearms. The On-Duty Officer (OOD) often carries a 1911 pistol when not at sea. Similarly, Master at Arms (MAA) personnel are also authorized to carry a 1911 on both shore and sea. Submarines and nuclear vessels have heightened security measures, leading to increased arming of personnel at all times.

Non-hostile situations usually don't see active service personnel carrying pistols. However, certain roles, such as Navy SEALs and special operations units, do require the use of sidearms for essential duties. Officers on quarterdeck watch, those delivering documents classified as 'Secret' or above, and payroll disbursing officers when handling large cash amounts are also authorized to carry weapons. These are generally considered being in ‘alert’ status.

Infantry and Other Specialized Units

In most infantry units, and many other specialized units, the only officer authorized to carry a pistol is the Commanding Officer (CO). The rest of the officers are typically authorized to carry a 9mm carbine, which they may carry only during operations and exercises.

Historically, the CO might even carry only a baton or a swagger stick during certain operations. Theorically, each officer on commission is supposed to be issued a pistol as a personal weapon, which is maintained through their service at the expense of the government. However, this practice has been deferred due to an acute shortage of weapons. Officers are also permitted to purchase or import one additional pistol or revolver with permission from their commanding officer. A valid license must be obtained from the District Administration before retirement or else the weapon should be disposed of according to the laid down procedure.

Peace Time and War Time Regulations

During peace time, military officers are not authorized to carry any weapons. Those few officers who may be authorized to carry pistols during wartime carry carbines or rifles instead. Even in police forces, a sub-inspector holds the authority to carry a pistol.

Keytakeaways:

Navy officers typically carry 1911 pistols in certain situations, especially on vessels with heightened security. In infantry units, only the CO is often authorized to carry a pistol, while other officers carry 9mm carbines. Peace time regulations strictly prohibit officers from carrying any weapons on active duty.

Understanding these regulations highlights the careful consideration of weapon authorization and the varying requirements based on the nature of the service and the specific role.

Conclusion

The weapon-carrying regulations for military officers are nuanced and vary depending on the branch, unit type, and operational context. From the naval 1911 to the army's 9mm carbine, these rules underscore the importance of maintaining safety and operational readiness.