If the guardsman was in uniform, you're right, a citizen might incorrectly, but reasonably, believe that he was acting as an agent of the government. When in uniform, all military members need to recognize that what we do will be seen, rightly or wrongly, as actions on behalf of the government.
On another note, the officer had no legal authority to demand the firearm be covered. However, he had the right to ask or suggest. If the carrier chose not to cover it and an Arby's agent said they wanted it covered or gone, then he was trespassing, and the officer would have authority to deal with that.
Why do folks insist on staying on private property where they or their firearm are not welcome??? Just leave and take your dollars with you.
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