Service members perform their duties in some extremely stressful environments. From patrolling in a deadly combat zone to saying your final goodbyes at a military funeral, it can be intense.
At most military functions, there will most likely be someone present who is carrying a loaded weapon, whether it’s blanks or live ammunition. With stress levels reaching a high peak, the last thing people want to hear is the negligent discharge — or ND — of a firearm.
Check out our list of the worst times to have a negligent discharge:
7. At a funeral detail
Many military funerals feature a 21-gun salute, with volleys fired at specific times during the ceremony. Interrupting the service by having one of the riflemen accidentally discharge their weapon before they’re supposed to would be less than ideal, to say the least.
Everyone tends to jump a little, even when the rifles are fired at the correct time.
6. During a foreign military weapons inspection
We advise and work alongside the militaries of many foreign countries worldwide. When you’re trying to build and/or maintain relationships, there’s nothing more cancerous than having an ND occur to set everyone on edge.
5. Right before stepping out on a stressful foot patrol
The primary mission of an allied foot patrol is to make contact with the opposition. When a trooper accidentally taps the trigger of a weapon that’s no longer on “safe,” some very crappy things can follow.
4. While handling business in a porta-sh*tter
Many troops are required to carry loaded sidearms on their hip. Having a negligent discharge while you’re attending to business can lead to a messy outcome.
Oh, and you can shoot yourself.
BANG. Just Bang. Any other sound effects would be disgusting – *gag*
3. Inside an up-armored vehicle
Armored vehicles are designed to keep enemy bullets from entering the cabin. That’s pretty obvious, right?
Having an ND go off inside the vehicle is really bad, as the bullet will ricochet until it loses speed. Hopefully, it doesn’t land inside one of your buddies.
2. In the “CoC”
The “Center of Communication” is the artery for directing the troops on the ground. If an ND were to occur inside, that live round could kill a troop or damage some crucial computerized gear.
On second thought, just clear all your weapon systems before entering.
1. In a crowded Afghan Bazaar
Afghanistan is considered one of the most dangerous battlegrounds in the world. The already intense energy in the area can quickly become deadly in the blink of an eye. A negligent discharge could launch an entire battle — or worse.
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