The Hill: “The troops are to be trained in how to “form Squad-sized Riot Control Formation,” how to “employ a Riot Baton as a Member of a Riot Control Formation,” and how to “Supervise a Riot/Crowd Control Operation,” as well as de-escalation of force techniques, according to the memo…”
@parnasperspective via ABCGo: “The Pentagon has directed all 50 states to establish National Guard rapid-response units aimed at addressing civil unrest, a move that has raised concerns about the militarization of law enforcement and the potential for abuse of power. Critics argue that this approach blurs the lines between military and civilian law enforcement roles. Overview of National Guard Rapid-Response Units.
- Objective: The units are designed to assist federal, state, and local law enforcement in managing civil disturbances.
- Deployment: Troops can be rapidly mobilized to respond to unrest in various cities across the country.
- Composition: Each state will designate Army and Air National Guard members for this purpose.
- Training: The units will receive specialized training to prepare for their roles in maintaining order.
- Criticism: Experts and former military officials have expressed alarm over the potential misuse of National Guard troops for domestic policing, arguing it could violate legal boundaries and undermine civilian law enforcement.
- Historical Context: Traditionally, the National Guard’s role has been to assist during natural disasters or foreign threats, not to manage civil unrest.
- Support and Opposition: While some support the initiative as necessary for public safety, others view it as a political maneuver that could lead to increased militarization of local communities.
This initiative reflects a significant shift in the role of the National Guard, raising questions about the balance between security and civil liberties in the United States.”
