Contact the airline beforehand. Explain your situation, and provide proof of DoD employment. Perhaps they allow certain items to be checked in the cockpit at the Captain's discretion. You'll have to show up way in advance of your flight for the crew to go through your kit and make sure it is what you say it is. A 'gift' to the flight crew for special service would probably be greatly appreciated.

If you figure out alternative improvided personal defensive items, make sure they're not considered 'dual use'. Flashlights are ok, but something tells me that, for example, the Surefire Executive Defender isn't gonna make it through. Camera accessories are ok, but that tripod...couldn't it be an expandible baton?

I'm wondering if certain ID's would cause hassle. Throwing stars are on the prohib list, but would a travelling Sherrif's Deputy be permitted to carry their badge out of professional courtesy?