The United States Department of Defense (DoD) recently issued a report on the subject of extremist activity within the United States military. Over the past 50 years, DoD has issued, updated, and clarified the policies regarding extremist activity. This report provides information on the measures DoD has taken to “detect, deter, and mitigate such threats.” It also outlines the implementation of the four “directed actions” from the Secretary of Defense, as well as the six recommendations and actions CEAWG (Countering Extremist Activity Working Group) have proposed to and have since been carried out by the Secretary of Defense. Some key recommendations include:

• Developing a comprehensive training and education plan that provides regular training on prohibited extremist activity to Department of Defense personnel, including those advancing to leadership positions.

• Reviewing and updating policies to provide notice to the Total Force and Department of Defense contractor personnel on prohibited extremist activity.

• Improving and modernizing Insider Threat programs by enhancing capabilities, maximizing information sharing, and ensuring a consistent and full understanding of any legal requirements.

The full report can be accessed here. Be sure to check out the December 2021 Memorandum issued by the Secretary of Defense as well as the Department of Defense Instruction. For more information, check out HSDL’s Featured Topic on [Military Role in Homeland Security]. Please note an HSDL login is required to view some of these resources. Need help finding something? Ask one of our librarians for assistance!