Army Secretary Addresses Soldier Encounters with Migrants at National Defense Areas

Army's Role in National Defense Areas

• 🛡️ The Army is prepared to secure National Defense Areas upon transfer from the Department of the Interior, treating them like existing Army bases.
• 👮 Soldiers are trained to provide security, similar to their roles on Army bases, with security levels determined by specific circumstances.

Soldier Procedures with Migrants

• ✋ Soldiers do not have law enforcement functions and will hold migrants for a reasonable period until law enforcement arrives.
• ❓ The definition of a "reasonable period" is situation-dependent, and soldiers are trained to operate within their defined duties.
• 🗺️ An example provided involves soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division providing patrols and overwatch, calling Customs and Border Patrol upon spotting illegal crossings.

Training and Coordination

• 훈련 The Army's existing training in security missions, patrolling, and reconnaissance is deemed sufficient for these new areas.
• 🤝 There is a close relationship and coordination with Customs and Border Patrol, with no significant issues reported so far.
• 💬 Soldiers reportedly value the mission and find it adds value, a sentiment echoed by Customs and Border Patrol agents.

Mission Impact and Concerns

• ❓ It is unclear if any Army missions are being delayed or diverted due to this priority, though the Army states troops are excited about the mission.
• ⚠️ Concerns were raised regarding the potential for unintended consequences, including serious harm or lethality, due to the differences in roles between soldiers and law enforcement agents.
• 💰 The cost of the mission and its impact on preparing for other strategic areas like INDOPACOM were questioned.