Oklahoma Calling On Army National Guard To Help With Security For President Trump's Rally In Tulsa

The state is calling on Oklahoma Army National Guard soldiers to help with security for President Trump's rally on Saturday.

The rally at the BOK Center is now just two days away.

News On 6 has been told as many as 250 Oklahoma Army National Guard soldiers are being activated to help provide security during President Donald Trump's campaign rally Saturday.

Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin said the guardsmen will be used as a "force multiplier" to help secure safety zones around the downtown BOK Center where the rally is to be held.

Guard spokesman Lt. Col. Geoff Legler said the guardsmen will be unarmed but will carry shields, batons, and pepper spray in case they need to protect themselves.

Chief Franklin said they have been planning for President Trump's visit since the moment it was announced.

He said they've been meeting with the secret service since last week.

"We will increase our numbers; ramp up our numbers to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the event on Saturday," said Chief Franklin.

Chief Franklin said officers from multiple law enforcement agencies also will help provide security, as well as the FBI and other federal agencies.

He said their goal is to keep everyone safe during this rally.