Bishop Garrison, a decorated veteran and former Pentagon official, urgently calls for action against extremism in the U.S. military, highlighting the domestic threats posed by radicalized military members.
At a Glance
- Bishop Garrison warns of potential domestic attacks if extremism is not addressed.
- Incidents on New Year’s Day involved military personnel in tragic events.
- Concerns over potential dismantling of counter-extremism programs by new leadership.
Urgent Fight Against Extremism
Bishop Garrison, having led the Countering Extremist Activity Working Group during the Biden administration, calls for immediate action to combat extremism within the U.S. military. His concern stems from two tragic incidents on New Year’s Day, where a veteran and an active-duty Green Beret committed acts of terror, highlighting the domestic threats posed by radicalized military personnel. Garrison stresses the importance of reevaluating strategies to prevent further violence.
The Pentagon has introduced new guidelines aimed at curbing extremism among service members. These measures include potential disciplinary action for “liking” extremist content on social media. Such actions, according to Garrison, are critical in maintaining the integrity and safety of the United States military forces.
Tragic Events Spur Action
Recent events, like the New Year’s Day attacks, underscore the urgency of addressing extremism within the military. A veteran’s attack in New Orleans left 14 people dead, while a Green Beret in Las Vegas committed a suicide bombing. Garrison states, “Both incidents demonstrate the sleeping danger that we have failed to deal with as a country.”
These violent acts signify more than isolated events; they reflect a growing issue within the military ranks. If not addressed, such incidents could escalate, putting national security at risk and endangering countless lives.
Call for Continued Vigilance
Garrison remains concerned over the potential dismantling of existing counter-extremism programs under new leadership within the Pentagon. He emphasizes to military officials the need for continued vigilance and strategic intervention to counter radical ideologies among U.S. service members.
As extremism remains a rare, albeit dangerous, threat within military ranks, Garrison calls for a systematic and proactive approach to engage service members and veterans. Successful implementation of the proposed guidelines and educational programs could effectively reduce the risk of radicalized actions within military and civilian communities.
Sources:
- Pentagon Updates Its Rules on Extremism in the Military – The New York Times
- After USA TODAY investigation, military finally releases internal extremism report
- Extremism in US military is ‘sleeping danger’ says author of Pentagon report
