Army Veteran Continues Solo Patrols Outside Washington Schools, Sparking Debate
Lacey, WA – Anthony Triplett Jr., a nine-year Army veteran and father of two, has been voluntarily patrolling the grounds of North Thurston Public Schools in Washington state for over two years, a practice that has drawn both praise and scrutiny. Triplett’s efforts began following the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, in May 2022, and he continues to dedicate approximately 20 hours a week to the patrols.
A Veteran’s Response to School Safety Concerns
Triplett, 31, medically retired from the Army in 2018 after serving two combat tours in Afghanistan and sustaining a leg injury. He has two children attending Evergreen Forest Elementary within the North Thurston Public Schools district. After the Uvalde shooting, he says his daughters and other students asked him what was being done to ensure their safety at school. Feeling existing measures were insufficient, Triplett decided to take action.
“It was my kids and other kids asking me, ‘Hey, what are they doing to retain us safe?’” Triplett said, according to reporting by KING. “Triplett responded that they weren’t doing enough.”
He now patrols the school campuses with his service dog, Jude, and carries a sidearm. He emphasizes his readiness to intervene if necessary. “If I were to hear an explosion or gunshots, or something like that, see a crowd of students running out, say they said someone’s firing, I’m going in,” he stated to KING.
Legal Status and Community Response
Triplett’s actions are reportedly legal, but have prompted mixed reactions. The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office has expressed a preference for leaving security to trained professionals. However, State Senator Patty Kuderer has voiced empathy for Triplett, stating his actions are “a damning statement of where we are as a society,” as reported by KING.
The North Thurston Public Schools district has acknowledged receiving a handful of complaints from parents regarding Triplett’s presence. Despite this, he continues his patrols, driven by a desire to provide an added layer of security for students.
Veteran Overwatch Program
Triplett’s efforts extend beyond simply walking the school grounds. He founded the Veteran Overwatch program, which aims to provide extra protection outside schools through the dedication of veterans.
Political Advocacy
On his Facebook page, Triplett has also voiced his concerns regarding Washington state Democrats prohibiting public hearings for two initiatives: Protecting Girls’ Sports (IL26-638) and Restoring Parental Rights in Public Education (IL26-001).
Anthony Triplett Jr.’s story highlights the ongoing debate surrounding school safety and the role of community involvement in protecting students. His commitment to providing a sense of security has resonated with some, whereas others question the appropriateness of an armed civilian presence on school grounds.