Mississippi National Guard Centers Will Have Armed Security

JACKSON, Miss. (WCBI)- National Guard soldiers and airmen will be armed at 10 recruitment centers in Mississippi, including in Tupelo and Columbus.

Major General Augustus Collins, the Adjutant General of Mississippi, wants citizens who are standing guard with their personal weapons to stay away from recruiting offices. They will also be reported to law enforcement.

He says armed civilians can cause confusion and increase the risk of injury.

Governor Phil Bryant requested the new security measures.

This response is in light of the deadly shootings at a military recruitment and Navy reserve center in Chattanooga.