Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Donald Trump’s shooter?

After Donald Trump narrowly escapedan assassination attempt, all eyes are now on the former US President’s security and the lapses in it.

Trump was attacked by a shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. According to reports, the shooter was armed with a high-powered semi-automatic rifle of AR-15 variant. The weapon is notorious for its use in various shootings.

The personnel responsible for Trump’s security belongto the US Secret Service, which is trained for rapid and decisive actions in such scenarios where prompt response is required. For this, they also deployed a sniper team (also known as counter-sniper) at strategic positions during Trump’s rally to neutralise any threat.

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In the July 14 incident, the counter-sniper team used an Mk13 sniper rifle, which is a precision long-range weapon used primarily by US military forces, including the Navy SEALs.

A lot of conspiracy theories and criticism are going around on US Secret Service and its inability to promptly assess and respond to the situation.

In one video shared on X, a counter-sniper can be seen taking aim at the shooter, way before he shot at Trump, making people question why the US counter-sniper didn’t carry out a pre-emptive attack. Some even doubt his aiming skills, as he seems to lose the coordinates of the aim.

Here’s everything you need to about the US Secret Services Counter Sniper team:

Who are Counter Snipers of US Secret Service that took down Trump’s shooter?

The Secret Service was created in 1865 as a response to threats against the USfinancial system. At the time, counterfeit money was a major problem, and the new agency’s mission was to identify and remove printing press operations and the dissemination of fake currency.

It wasn’t until 1901 after the assassination of President William McKinley that the Secret Service was tasked with the protection of the president.

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The Counter Sniper Team (CS) is a specialised unit within the US Secret Service that provides global long-range observation and tactical support to US Secret Service protective details. They also provide support to designated protectees, protected venues and National Special Security Events (NSSEs) on order.

The personnel of this team undergo 29 weeks of Uniformed Division Training along with 11 week of Counter Sniper Selection and Basic Training.

(With inputs from agencies)