Stolen Military Gear at Fort Moore: Security Scrutinized, Reward Offered

The U.S. Army is offering a substantial reward for information on missing military equipment from Fort Moore, Georgia, including dozens of pistols and advanced optics.

At a Glance

  • 31 M17 pistols, night vision goggles, and a thermal weapon sight are missing from Fort Moore
  • The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) has increased the reward to $15,000 for credible information
  • Equipment was stolen from the Crescenz Consolidated Equipment Pool between March and October
  • The incident raises concerns about military arsenal security and inventory control
  • Fort Moore, formerly Fort Benning, is a key Army ground combat training base

Missing Military Equipment and Increased Reward

In a concerning development at Fort Moore, Georgia, the U.S. Army is grappling with the theft of critical military equipment. The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) has escalated its efforts to recover 31 M17 pistols, two sets of Enhanced Night Vision Goggles, and an AN/PAS-13D Thermal Weapon Sight. In response to the expanded list of missing items, the CID has increased the reward for information from an initial $5,000 to $15,000, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

The M17 pistols, which serve as the Defense Department’s standard-issue sidearm since 2017, were reported missing on May 16, though they may have disappeared as early as March. The night vision goggles were discovered missing between August and October. All items were last accounted for at the Crescenz Consolidated Equipment Pool, which is managed by civilian contractor Vectrus (V2X).

Security Concerns and Preventive Measures

The theft has prompted a reassessment of security protocols at Fort Moore. Access to the facility has been reduced, and plans are in place to install additional surveillance and inventory equipment. These measures aim to prevent future incidents and strengthen the security of military arsenals.

This case is part of a broader trend of military equipment thefts from bases in recent years, raising significant concerns about the efficacy of existing security measures. The incident at Fort Moore, a key Army ground combat training base, highlights the need for enhanced vigilance and stricter inventory controls across military installations.

Call for Public Assistance

The CID is actively seeking public assistance in recovering the stolen equipment. They encourage anyone with credible information to contact their Southern Field Office. The reward amount may vary based on the quality and relevance of the information provided, up to the maximum of $15,000.

The theft of these weapons and advanced optics not only represents a significant loss of military assets but also poses potential security risks if the equipment falls into the wrong hands. The Army’s swift response and increased reward demonstrate the seriousness with which they are treating this breach of security.

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