Security at armories increasing

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Three war memorials in other states were defaced over the weekend, adding to active military personnel's fears over a growing realization that not everyone holds soldiers in high esteem. Florida is about to spend $2 million protecting its national guardsmen.

Florida was one of the first states to beef up armory and recruiting station security in the wake of attacks against the military last year.

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Reporter Mike Vasilinda arrived at a National Guard Armory before those inside were told a news crew was coming. Within a minute, the news outlet's presence there was being questioned.

It is a sign of heightened security and concern by those in uniform. The armory was shut down last July by a bomb threat. Now state lawmakers are spending $2 million to upgrade security at armories around the state. Interim Veterans Affairs Director Col. Glenn Sutfin said it is a sign of the times.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cures," he said. "I think that we need to be vigilant, just like airports: We check people getting on aircrafts. Coming into the armory, we check to make sure you are there for the right reason.”

Upgrades include more cameras, bigger and better locks and bollards to stop wayward vehicles.

It’s not just extra security. Police across the state are being asked to drive by more frequently and look for anything suspicious.

Those in uniform are now armed. Following last year's attack that killed five in Tennessee, more than 38,000 active military and guardsmen have been issued expedited concealed carry permits.

“It is important to Commissioner Putnam to expedite these active military and veterans licenses so they could obtain a concealed weapons license,” Jen Meale, a Department of Agriculture representative, said.

The $2 million being spent this year is just the start. The guard will be asking for another $4 million for security over the next two years.