Weapons Used by Naval Shore Patrol

Naval shore patrol units are responsible for maintaining security and law enforcement in naval installations and their surrounding areas. These units typically utilize a wide array of weapons and equipment to ensure that these areas remain safe and orderly. Below, we delve into the most common weapons used by naval shore patrol and share a personal account of the tools and training received during deployment.

Primary Weapons Used by Naval Shore Patrol

Naval shore patrol personnel are equipped with various types of firearms and non-lethal weapons to address different security scenarios. Here are some of the most commonly used weapons:

Sidearms and Handguns

Standard issue sidearms for shore patrol personnel often include semi-automatic pistols such as the Beretta M9 and the Sig Sauer P226. These pistols are designed for quick draw and reliable performance in high-stress situations.

Rifles

M16/M4 rifles are frequently used by shore patrol for more significant threats. These rifles are versatile and reliable, making them essential for troops on active duty.

Shotguns

Pump-action shotguns like the Remington 870 are sometimes used in close-quarters situations or for non-lethal options. These shotguns can be effective in controlling crowds and can be loaded with less-lethal or non-lethal ammunition.

Non-lethal Weapons

Non-lethal weapons are crucial for situations where lethal force must be avoided. These include:

Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is commonly used for crowd control and subduing individuals without causing lethal harm. This non-lethal option provides a means to control suspects or disorderly crowds without resorting to lethal force.

Tasers

Tasers function as a less-lethal option to incapacitate suspects. They are effective in subduing individuals while minimizing the risk of injury or death.

Batons

Baton usage includes both expandable and standard batons for close combat and self-defense. These tools are essential for dealing with physical altercations in close quarters.

Body Armor

Body armor is a critical piece of equipment for shore patrol personnel. It is worn during potentially dangerous situations to protect against projectiles and other hazards. While not a weapon, the protective gear is designed to safeguard against physical attacks and projectiles.

Personal Account

Reflecting on my time in the service during the Vietnam era, it was evident that the most effective 'weapon' was the personnel's presence and their ability to handle challenging situations with calm and authority. However, the tools and training provided were often rudimentary.

My experience during shore patrol duty in Waikiki exemplified this. When I was assigned this role, I was given a radio and a baton. The baton received approximately 3-4 minutes of training, while the radio received much less. This was a common scenario for temporary assignments, where the Navy would dispatch crew members for various duties without extensive training. The baton was often the only weapon at our disposal, and in situations where physical altercations were necessary, it was enough to control the situation.

This approach may seem inadequate in hindsight, especially with the advancements in security technology and training. However, it reflects the mindset and resources available at the time. It was assumed that a shore patrol member's ability to handle disputes and maintain order was more valuable than extensive weaponry or training.

Conclusion

The role of naval shore patrol units is critical in ensuring the safety and security of naval installations and surrounding areas. While the weapons and equipment they use can vary, the effectiveness of these units lies in their personnel, their training, and their ability to maintain a calm demeanor in high-stress situations. As security technologies continue to advance, these tools will evolve, but the fundamental principles of effective security remain the same.