Gov. Walker issues executive order to arm Wis. National Guard

On Tuesday morning, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker issued an executive order allowing Wisconsin National Guard members to carry weapons while on duty. 

\"Safety must be our top priority, especially in light of the horrific attack in Chattanooga,\" Governor Walker said. \"Allowing National Guard members to carry weapons while on duty gives them the tools they need to serve and protect our citizens, as well as themselves. I am also directing Adjutant General Donald Dunbar to evaluate longer-term plans to ensure the safety of our service members.\"

Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke applauded the decision, releasing the following statement:

\"Thank you Governor Walker for doing what needed to be done.  This decisive action will better protect Guard members and centers throughout Wisconsin.  These centers are in commercial areas used by the public who are thus in harm’s way as well. This will serve as a force multiplier to local law enforcement whose officers are now the first line of defense in protecting the homeland.  Governor Walker displays a sense of urgency, which is lacking from our commander in chief, in response to the home-grown terror threat that has reached our shores.  This is not the first attack, nor will it be the last, unfortunately, but sticking one’s head in the sand and thinking happy thoughts is not an effective counter-terrorism strategy.  Terrorists, like other mass murderers, pick sites, in part, where vulnerable people cannot immediately counter the threat before mass carnage ensues.\"

Five Marines died in the Tennessee attack on July 16. So far, there have been no reports of threats against any military establishments or centers in Wisconsin.