Agree with ya......Sidearms should be issued in basic an allowed concealed carry when out of uniform until enlistment is up. If retired, service sidearm is a gift with lifetime credentials for carry.
They do such for police ....why not our military ?
I was lucky to be in a unit that allowed me to keep my sidearm 24/7 in or out of uniform, on or off base. Retired in 96. Do not recommend the military to young men and women when assholes are in charge of this country. Suggest a career in law enforcemet as a deputy sheriff vs DOD.
My opinion....
I like your plan. Be nice to retire with a couple weapons to protect the family.
I have been in for years and have kids in now. Work DoD civilian and still in the Reserve. I thought I saw the worst with Clinton, but I ain’t giving up. There has to be some decent people who stay.
This reg was published under Bush I. It needs to be rescinded.