Exhibitor Resource Center

IMPORTANT
Prohibited Items and Firearms Display Protocol
The Global Special Operations Forces Foundation maintains a strict security posture to safeguard all personnel and assets during the Special Air Warfare Symposium. This policy establishes mandatory requirements for the exhibition and handling of firearms and related equipment within the Convention Center. Compliance is required for participation. Failure to comply will result in immediate enforcement actions, including removal from the event and, when appropriate, referral to law enforcement.

Prohibited Items
The following items are not permitted for display, possession, transport, or promotion at any time during the event:

• Live or operable firearms (all display weapons must be inert, and the firing
  pin must be removed). All weapons, whether functional, deactivated, or replicas, are subject to inspection and approval prior to display. Blaze-orange muzzle marking is mandatory for imitation or non-functional firearms.
• Ammunition (live or inert) unless prior written approval is granted
• Explosives or pyrotechnics (including inert replicas)
• Weapon components intended for operational use (e.g., bolts, barrels,
  firing pins, detonators)
• Improvised weapons or devices
• Riot control agents and devices (e.g., pepper spray, CS gas, tasers)
• Restraints designed for human application (e.g., leg irons, thumb cuffs,
  stun belts)
• Unmanned aerial systems (UAS/drones), unless explicitly approved in
  advance
• Propaganda or materials promoting illegal or sanctioned activities
• Any classified material or export-controlled items not previously cleared
  for public exhibition
• Concealed carry of firearms by exhibitors, off-duty law enforcement, or
  attendees, regardless of permit status

Compliance Statement
The Global SOF Foundation and the Destin-Fort Walton Convention Center enforce a zero-tolerance policy for any unauthorized weapons or restricted items. Exhibitors are responsible for verifying that all materials comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including export-control laws. Exhibitors should coordinate with internal compliance personnel or legal counsel before shipment or display of any regulated items. Noncompliance may result in removal from the event and notification to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office or other relevant authorities.

EXHIBITOR FIREARM DISPLAY POLICY

1. Purpose
   This policy outlines the mandatory procedures for exhibitors displaying firearms or firearm-like items at the Special Air Warfare Symposium. These measures ensure compliance with all venue and Global SOF Foundation security protocols.
2. Applicability
   This policy applies to all exhibitors displaying any firearm, replica, mock-up, or non-functional weapon system within the Convention Center during the event dates 10–12 February 2026.
3. Mandatory Requirements
   1. Firearm Registration
      1. Each firearm must be individually registered BEFORE January 12th, 2026. Required details include make, model, serial number, caliber, and color. Documentation must be submitted to the GSOF Director of Security and the GSOF Sales Manager at:
         smahabir@globalsoffoundation.org and tburnett@globalsoffoundation.org
4. Display Controls

• Each firearm must be secured to the booth with approved tethering or
  locking hardware to prevent removal or unauthorized handling.
• Firearms may not be pointed toward attendees or used in
  demonstrations outside preauthorized activities.
• Only the legal owner or designated representative may register a
  firearm. Event personnel cannot register firearms on behalf of
  exhibitors.
  5. Firearm Condition
  • All firearms must be unloaded, fully inert, and incapable of mechanical
    operation.
  • Firing pins must be removed or a chamber lock installed
  • Ammunition is prohibited at the booth under all circumstances unless
    explicitly approved in writing.

6. Inspections
GSOF Security and/or the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office may inspect any
displayed firearm at any time. Exhibitors must provide immediate access upon
request. Noncompliance will result in the removal of the event and may lead to
law enforcement action.
7. Storage
All firearms displayed on the exhibition floor must remain securely tethered to
the vendor’s booth throughout public display hours. No centralized Arms Room
or secure storage area will be available after hours. Vendors presenting firearms
are responsible for arranging approved overnight security within their assigned
space or removing all display weapons from the venue at the end of each day. All
proposed overnight security providers must be submitted to show management
for review and authorization.
Noncompliance with the Firearm Exhibit Policy may result in corrective
measures, including financial penalties assessed against the exhibiting
organization.

4. Exhibitor Obligations:

• Firearm registration email submitted 30 days prior to event start date
• Ensure all serial numbers are accurately recorded for each firearm
• Firearms unloaded and rendered inoperable
• Blaze-orange muzzle marking is mandatory for imitation or
  non-functional firearms.
• Maintain full accountability for all display items throughout the event
• Arranging approved overnight security/storage for display weapons

5. Contacts:
   GSOF Director of Security:
   Sean Mahabir – Security Director, Global SOF Foundation
   3690 W. Gandy Blvd. Suite 140, Tampa, Florida 33611
   Email: smahabir@globalsoffoundation.org