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markpkessinger

(8,927 posts)
19. They are actually quite highly trained . . .
Thu Apr 16, 2026, 06:43 PM
Thursday

. . . and are considered to be an elite military unit. Those are just ceremonial uniforms in the photo.

Beyond their ceremonial role, the Swiss Guard is a modern security force equipped with advanced training and weaponry:

  • Elite Background: Every recruit is a Swiss citizen who has already completed basic training with the Swiss Armed Forces.
  • Modern Weaponry: While they carry traditional halberds, they are also armed with modern SIG Sauer pistols, assault rifles, and submachine guns.
  • Specialized Training: Since the 1981 assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II, the Guard has significantly increased its focus on modern tactics, including:

  • – Counter-terrorism and anti-sniper operations.
    – Close-quarters battle (CQB) and tactical fast shooting.
    – Executive protection and hostage rescue.
    – Tactical driving and medical services.

Recommendations

2 members have recommended this reply (displayed in chronological order):

I'm worried about Pope Leo. [View all] no_hypocrisy Thursday OP
Pope Leo is a tough cookie and nobody's fool. Irish_Dem Thursday #1
Never mess with a guy SocialDemocrat61 Thursday #5
Grew up in the South Side of Chicago. Emile Thursday #6
I grew up in Brooklyn SocialDemocrat61 Thursday #10
Well, the south side of Chicago Emile Thursday #11
I was just thinking very similar thougts. BlueKota Thursday #13
Lol, I see that. Emile Thursday #14
The subway rats prefer New York style SocialDemocrat61 Thursday #15
This just reminded me of this song! BlueKota Thursday #12
I hope Pope Leo has good security staff. Diamond_Dog Thursday #2
These guys? SocialDemocrat61 Thursday #16
They are actually quite highly trained . . . markpkessinger Thursday #19
That's been a conspiracy EnergizedLib Thursday #3
Hey, Jeffrey Epstein got 86'ed in prison. no_hypocrisy Friday #21
Wasn't that Michael Corleone? SocialDemocrat61 Thursday #4
Reform popes get threats from the corrupt. usonian Thursday #7
As long as he stays away from the US and the MAGA idiots, valleyrogue Thursday #8
I think you should chill out a bit Jilly_in_VA Thursday #9
Have you see the Swiss Guards? maxsolomon Thursday #17
Thank you canetoad Thursday #20
I see what you did, there....he hee. lindysalsagal Thursday #18
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