Minnesota Guardsmen Advised to Wear Reflective Vests for Clear Identification
The Minnesota National Guard has announced that its personnel will wear bright reflective vests. This decision aims to prevent confusion with law enforcement agencies, especially those in military-style uniforms. Army Major Andrea Tsuchiya, a spokesperson for the state’s National Guard, emphasized the importance of this distinction. “These vests help to differentiate our members from those of other agencies,” she stated.
Context of the Decision
This initiative comes amid ongoing protests in Minneapolis, sparked by the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an agent of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on January 7. Officials claim that Good attempted to ram her SUV into federal agents during an immigration operation that began in December.
Growing Presence of Federal Agents
Minneapolis currently hosts thousands of ICE agents and additional federal law enforcement personnel. Their attire, resembling military gear, poses challenges for civilians attempting to identify law enforcement officials. Reports indicate that outfits worn by U.S. Border Patrol and FBI agents closely match military uniforms.
Implementation of Reflective Vests
The Minnesota National Guard’s reflective vests are intended for use only when activated. A statement on the Minnesota National Guard’s Facebook page noted that the measure is designed to ensure guardsmen are not mistaken for state or federal law enforcement in camouflage.
- The reflective vests are not aimed specifically at any agency.
- The Minnesota National Guard had a limited presence in Minneapolis up until this point.
Support Missions
Recently, soldiers from the Minnesota National Guard’s 257th Military Police Company assisted state patrol troopers. Their role includes traffic support to safeguard public safety, property, and the rights of all Minnesotans to assemble peacefully, according to Major Tsuchiya.
Potential Military Mobilization
Additionally, in light of recent events, President Donald Trump has suggested using the Insurrection Act to deploy active-duty troops to Minneapolis. Reports indicate that approximately 1,500 soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division in Alaska are on standby for deployment if necessary.
The integration of these reflective vests not only aims to ensure clear identification of Minnesota Guardsmen but also reinforces their role in supporting community safety during these turbulent times.
