American citizens urge military leadership and policymakers to implement comprehensive surveillance systems in all military facilities. This petition has garnered strong support from veterans, active-duty service members, family members, and concerned citizens who believe in ensuring the safety and security of all who serve.

As a Navy veteran, I proudly served on active duty in the United States Navy from 2007 to 2011 and have continued to serve in the Navy Reserves since 2017. My firsthand experience in uniform—both active duty and reserves—has deepened my understanding of the unique security challenges our service members face, particularly in barracks and living facilities.

The tragic disappearance and subsequent death of Seaman Angelina Resendiz at Naval Station Norfolk in May 2025 exemplify the urgent need for immediate action. Without functional surveillance cameras inside or outside her barracks building, timely assistance was impossible. Her case is not isolated. Additional high-profile incidents—including repeated sexual assaults in barracks, the Aberdeen Proving Ground scandal, the murder of Vanessa Guillén at Fort Hood, and theft of military property from unsecured facilities—highlight systemic vulnerabilities that persist in the absence of effective monitoring.

This petition is rooted in the Department of Defense’s statutory responsibilities under 10 U.S.C. §§ 3013(b), 5013(b), and 8013(b), which assign the military departments the duty to ensure the security and well-being of all personnel. Additionally, DoD Instructions 6055.17 (DoD Installation Emergency Management Program) and 1325.07 (Administration of Military Correctional Facilities) establish the Department’s obligation to implement security measures, including surveillance systems. The Due Process Clause of the Fifth Amendment further underscores the government’s responsibility to protect individuals in its care.

We respectfully request that policymakers:

Implement functional, regularly maintained surveillance cameras in all military buildings—including barracks, administrative facilities, armories, and training areas.
Develop clear privacy and access policies that balance individual rights with effective safety oversight.
Institute regular audits and oversight mechanisms, with transparent reporting to Congress and the public where appropriate.
Establish independent oversight panels—including the Office of Inspector General or civilian reviewers—to monitor compliance and ensure accountability.

Our service members and their families deserve nothing less than the highest standards of protection and security. I trust that you share this commitment and look forward to working together to implement these essential reforms.