Common thief vs. Iraq veteran - What would you have done?

RallyPoint Team — Fri, 15 May 2015 08:59:15 -0400

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5_ea1yCwqo

What is your reaction to this video? With recent public buzz about violent crime and gun ownership, would you say this clerk represents the exception amongst gun owning veterans?

Liquor Store Clerk Iraq Veteran Turns Tables On Would Be Robber

Over the weekend 54-year-old Jon Lewis Alexander was working at Beer:30 Liquor Store in Marionville, Missouri when a man entered the store, pulled a gun on h...

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2015 4:12 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:12:36 -0400

Good deal.

Response by SSG Kevin McCulley made May 15 at 2015 4:13 PM

SSG Kevin McCulley — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:13:17 -0400

...not given him a chance to regret his decision.

Response by SGT Frank Leonardo made May 15 at 2015 4:18 PM

SGT Frank Leonardo — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:18:23 -0400

I would have done the same thing pulled out the side arm and told him to leave ASAP

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 15 at 2015 4:19 PM

MSG Brad Sand — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:19:53 -0400

My main thought, it is to bad the criminal walked out of the store? Perfect ending would have been with the thief in handcuffs...in my book...but with the video, that could still happen.

Response by SPC Mark Beard made May 15 at 2015 4:25 PM

SPC Mark Beard — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:25:21 -0400

He did outstanding

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2015 4:26 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:26:22 -0400

Doesn't surprise me at all. This was a very good friend of mine, and a combat-veteran herself.

http://www.kxii.com/home/headlines/Man-wanted-in-Knollwood-liquor-store-robbery--249213541.html

Man wanted in Knollwood liquor store robbery

KNOLLWOOD, TX -- The Grayson County Sheriff's Office says it is looking for a man who robbed the Knollwood Liquor and Beer Store Saturday night.

Response by SFC Charles S. made May 15 at 2015 4:26 PM

SFC Charles S. — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:26:33 -0400

The Thief was lucky. He could have been in a morgue on a slab instead of living to tell his tale. I would hope that he learned a valuable lesson and changed his ways.

I Carry a CCW weapon and would have done similarly. If the legal use of force is reached and you are no longer in danger, holster your weapon. This was a good call by the veteran.

WIN WIN.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2015 4:28 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:28:20 -0400

I think the guy in the video answered that when he said he don't think everyone should do it that you need to know what you are capable of. Also with that you need to know what level of risk you are willing to take. But good for the clerk I am glad he did do it.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 15 at 2015 4:28 PM

SPC Charles Brown — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:28:32 -0400

Got to say RallyPoint Team, I think this man did the job well. No, he is not the exception among the veteran gun owning population. I know many who would have had a similar reaction. Fortunately this veteran had been a military police officer.

I guess the old cadence of "If I had a low IQ I could be an MP too" no longer holds true, at least not for this particular individual. Job well done.

Response by SFC Michael Jackson, MBA made May 15 at 2015 4:29 PM

SFC Michael Jackson, MBA — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:29:24 -0400

I'm glad things turned out well and the thief learned a lesson. That being said, truthfully, I would have complied with the robber and not taken the risk. In a split second, anything can happen and I wouldn't want to die over a few material things.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made May 15 at 2015 4:35 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:35:16 -0400

Good video, because it shows that he first ensure that the guys gun was directed away from him then he pulled his gun without looking for it and placed it on the guys face. He also choose not to shoot even when he had the right. All these shows that he practices what he does. That is the lesson here practice, practice, practice.

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made May 15 at 2015 4:37 PM

SSG Carlos Madden — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:37:17 -0400

As past and present warriors, we all say we'd have done the same thing but in reality I'm not sure anyone knows exactly how they'd react in this situation. Something similar happened to me once and looking back at it, it did not go down as I would've potentially described it.

Nonetheless, the training this man had is clearly displayed with his reaction time, poise, and assertiveness. He reacted - no thinking involved.

I'm sure the merits of the second amendment will be throughly debated here but no one can deny the value of military experience!

Response by CPL Jay Freeman made May 15 at 2015 4:46 PM

CPL Jay Freeman — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:46:17 -0400

Awesome to bad he didn't just have the guy wait for cops to get him but all in all good move I have my concealed carry and I carry as often as I can

Response by CSM Michael Lynch made May 15 at 2015 4:47 PM

CSM Michael Lynch — Fri, 15 May 2015 16:47:49 -0400

Well done and executed professionally. He knew what he was doing and how to handle the situation with out it escalating as he pushed the robbers gun away and brought his out like it was second nature and well practiced. Good on him and now the police can get the robber at least for attempted armed robbery and tie him up for a few years. He is very lucky he will be in jail and not a pine box.

Good on the veteran for not just shooting him as he could have, he deescalated the issue without anyone getting hurt. I'm sure the robber is thinking about it knowing he could be dead right now. Hopefully it will make other wannabes think before they attempt to rob someone.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made May 15 at 2015 5:11 PM

Capt Brandon Charters — Fri, 15 May 2015 17:11:41 -0400

Veteran or not, it's our right to protect what's ours. Mission accomplished!

Response by SSG John Erny made May 15 at 2015 5:55 PM

SSG John Erny — Fri, 15 May 2015 17:55:22 -0400

Well played, well played indeed!

Response by Capt Jeff S. made May 15 at 2015 6:17 PM

Capt Jeff S. — Fri, 15 May 2015 18:17:14 -0400

The veteran in the video is a shining example of what happens when you have responsible citizens exercising their 2nd Amendment Right to keep and bear arms. He reacted as one would expect a veteran to react -- with a cool head and courage, displaying confidence in the face of danger. If we had gun control laws in place, only the robber would have been armed and it could potentially have gone very badly for the veteran.

Response by PO1 James Friedman made May 15 at 2015 6:16 PM

PO1 James Friedman — Fri, 15 May 2015 18:16:48 -0400

Outstanding job on his part.
Retired DOD police Officer

Response by PO1 James Friedman made May 15 at 2015 6:18 PM

PO1 James Friedman — Fri, 15 May 2015 18:18:35 -0400

I would have done the exact same thing.

Response by PO1 Howard Doll made May 15 at 2015 6:54 PM

PO1 Howard Doll — Fri, 15 May 2015 18:54:49 -0400

I am not sure what I would have done; what I do know is justice is served.

Response by SSG Melvin Nulph made May 15 at 2015 7:38 PM

SSG Melvin Nulph — Fri, 15 May 2015 19:38:15 -0400

I could only hope I'd be as calm and have the control not to pull the trigger like he had done. Without the training I hate to say it I may have ended a life out of the anger of him trying to mess up my day. To me he is something I can only hope to be like if needed. I've been robbed a few times as a young teen and hate the feeling, glad it worked out for him and only hope the showing of the video doesn't come back to haunt him or cause him or anyone around him harm at a later date.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2015 7:46 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 May 2015 19:46:25 -0400

Way to go store clerk.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2015 7:47 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 May 2015 19:47:16 -0400

I would have done the same thing.

Response by CPL Ron Williams made May 15 at 2015 7:56 PM

CPL Ron Williams — Fri, 15 May 2015 19:56:23 -0400

I would have to say I would have done the same.

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made May 15 at 2015 10:05 PM

1SG Cameron M. Wesson — Fri, 15 May 2015 22:05:25 -0400

That is too cool! That was well played and you could tell he executed that "Battle Drill" a few times. On a side note, I recruited in Marionville, MO in 93/94... I think I know the store.

Response by SPC Christian Ziegler made May 15 at 2015 11:22 PM

SPC Christian Ziegler — Fri, 15 May 2015 23:22:49 -0400

I'm not going to lie I have a CCL and if that happened to me I would of pulled the trigger. With the way things are going down around the country now a day if you pull on me and I get mine out, I will pull the trigger every time. Scouts Out

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 16 at 2015 12:39 AM

SSG (ret) William Martin — Sat, 16 May 2015 00:39:03 -0400

He's like a real life Charles Bronson.

Response by SFC Rollie Hubbard made May 16 at 2015 2:38 AM

SFC Rollie Hubbard — Sat, 16 May 2015 02:38:47 -0400

I think he should have put him on the floor then call the cops to pick up the body

Response by PO1 John Miller made May 16 at 2015 2:56 AM

PO1 John Miller — Sat, 16 May 2015 02:56:53 -0400

I'm surprised he let the guy walk away. I'm not saying he should have shot him (especially since he disarmed the would-be robber) but if I were in the same situation and had the same level of training and experience as this man did I think I would have held him there until the police arrived. Because who knows if the wanna-be thug had other guns and decided to rob another store? It would have been one less criminal out on the street.

Response by PO2 Slade Brown made May 16 at 2015 3:58 AM

PO2 Slade Brown — Sat, 16 May 2015 03:58:21 -0400

Training goes a long way to ensure not only the veterans safety first by deflecting the threat and responding with a cool head. Many others would have been shot or had to live with killing another man. This is a shining example of not only our military but also what it means to be an American with the right to keep and bare arms to protect ourselves and our property.

Response by SPC John Reed made May 16 at 2015 4:29 AM

SPC John Reed — Sat, 16 May 2015 04:29:17 -0400

My initial thought was "good for him". However, he was to close to the thief and he let an armed thief go without at least removing the thiefs weapon. As close as he was he was relying on a lack of training in the thief who could have handled the situation in the same way he did. I have always been taught to draw and shoot, if you are not going to shoot dont draw because once the other person is out of your sight you no longer have control of the situation.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2015 5:22 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 May 2015 05:22:11 -0400

Responsible gun owners, especially military service members, should be allowed to carry (concealed) after appropriate licensing and certification in any state, any time. What that prior service member did was appropriate and proportionate for the situation. Many Kudos to him and our 2nd Amendment right.

Response by A1C Chevy Nova Rambo made May 16 at 2015 6:24 AM

A1C Chevy Nova Rambo — Sat, 16 May 2015 06:24:56 -0400

It Doesn't Work Everytime., but with His Training & Expertise, it Worked for Him..And that Thief Won't be Back anytime Soon

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made May 16 at 2015 8:43 AM

MAJ Ron Peery — Sat, 16 May 2015 08:43:21 -0400

Dang, this is an old video. I doubt that I would have shown as much restraint as the guy in Marionville did. I have family connections in Marionville, and I plan to visit the guy's store and shake his hand next time I am in town.

Response by SFC Anthony Ruiz made May 16 at 2015 10:08 AM

SFC Anthony Ruiz — Sat, 16 May 2015 10:08:32 -0400

Some of us would of jus sweetest the trigger

Response by COL David S. made May 16 at 2015 12:18 PM

COL David S. — Sat, 16 May 2015 12:18:20 -0400

He did what he should have done. End of story.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2015 12:28 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 16 May 2015 12:28:27 -0400

I think that the veteran in this video did the right thing at the right time to keep from getting robbed. And having a CWP affirms our 2nd amendment rights.

Response by SGT Matthew Madrid made May 16 at 2015 1:33 PM

SGT Matthew Madrid — Sat, 16 May 2015 13:33:32 -0400

Wtf... He should have made the guy drop the gun before letting him run off.

Response by SSgt Anthony Wortham made May 16 at 2015 2:26 PM

SSgt Anthony Wortham — Sat, 16 May 2015 14:26:54 -0400

HOOOOOOOOORAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! BAM!

Response by LCpl Tom Dunn made May 16 at 2015 3:06 PM

LCpl Tom Dunn — Sat, 16 May 2015 15:06:58 -0400

Probably would of done the same thing but the thief wouldn't have walked away

Response by LCpl Rustin Poorboy made May 16 at 2015 3:55 PM

LCpl Rustin Poorboy — Sat, 16 May 2015 15:55:36 -0400

Chalk one up 4 the good guys!

Response by Sgt Adam Robbins made May 16 at 2015 5:56 PM

Sgt Adam Robbins — Sat, 16 May 2015 17:56:26 -0400

He showed restraint and control , and would not allow himself to be the victim......however with that being said he is an exception because: not all gun owners continue to train or have trained with the weapons and carry systems they choose, this perishable skill and tactical thinking needs to sharpened like a blade or it will become dull

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 16 at 2015 8:05 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sat, 16 May 2015 20:05:57 -0400

He got lucky that he was able to push the robbers gun away.

Response by SPC John Decker made May 16 at 2015 11:45 PM

SPC John Decker — Sat, 16 May 2015 23:45:29 -0400

If I was armed in my job and was drawn on, I would do the same thing. No, I don't think he is the exception.

Response by PFC Harvey Jones made May 17 at 2015 2:12 AM

PFC Harvey Jones — Sun, 17 May 2015 02:12:06 -0400

Good response

Response by SPC Jeff Myers made May 17 at 2015 3:50 AM

SPC Jeff Myers — Sun, 17 May 2015 03:50:37 -0400

Outstanding

Response by SSG Scott Heineman made May 17 at 2015 12:36 PM

SSG Scott Heineman — Sun, 17 May 2015 12:36:47 -0400

The way things are now and days you need to be packing it's better to be safe then sorry

Response by SPC Darryl Musgrove made May 17 at 2015 12:48 PM

SPC Darryl Musgrove — Sun, 17 May 2015 12:48:24 -0400

Military training pays off

Response by Cpl Craig Davies made May 17 at 2015 4:22 PM

Cpl Craig Davies — Sun, 17 May 2015 16:22:09 -0400

Outfreekinstanding!!....OORah!

Response by TSgt Jason Thompson made May 17 at 2015 6:40 PM

TSgt Jason Thompson — Sun, 17 May 2015 18:40:04 -0400

My guess is that I wouldn't quite put the same stock in the loss of merchandise and/or money, and just let him go with the insurance covered losses.

But I suppose my G20 could find my way into my hand as well. Maybe I should have said "I'd play it by ear."

As for exceptions or examples, I have no idea if we use guns more responsibly. My guess is that we do, and certainly we do it with more competence than the average citizen. But you know there are more than a handful of Vets who just as easily could do something(s) outrageous and cause that same public buzz to refocus specifically upon us.

Response by SSG Alfredo Ramirez made May 17 at 2015 9:04 PM

SSG Alfredo Ramirez — Sun, 17 May 2015 21:04:20 -0400

I'm a Veteran, but I don't like guns....I think clerks should be allowed to have a gun available because quick stores like this one get held up quite often....for self defense....I don't particularly like guns but I do believe in having one around in case of emergencies.....This veteran reacted without a blink, because of his experience as a Military Policeman.....great job...

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2015 10:42 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 17 May 2015 22:42:13 -0400

Great job! Once a soldier always a soldier

Response by SP5 Bob Doney made May 18 at 2015 10:18 AM

SP5 Bob Doney — Mon, 18 May 2015 10:18:20 -0400

I carry.45acp in town always n glock in glove box. I believe he did the right thing. Ppl getting crazy anymore.

Response by SPC Brandon Lewis made May 18 at 2015 11:22 AM

SPC Brandon Lewis — Mon, 18 May 2015 11:22:25 -0400

He showed great restraint. He made the right decision in letting the thief leave instead of trying to restrain him or worse. Lots of people would have shot that guy.

Response by Sgt William Bulhoes made May 18 at 2015 11:54 AM

Sgt William Bulhoes — Mon, 18 May 2015 11:54:53 -0400

I would have done the same thing. I'm always carrying a side arm.

Response by LCpl Ronnie Rae made May 18 at 2015 12:47 PM

LCpl Ronnie Rae — Mon, 18 May 2015 12:47:41 -0400

Lots of self control. I might have pulled the trigger.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 1:04 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 13:04:09 -0400

One word - AWESOME!

Response by SFC Joseph Bosley made May 18 at 2015 1:34 PM

SFC Joseph Bosley — Mon, 18 May 2015 13:34:35 -0400

Guns are a tool. No more good or bad then the individual wielding the tool. In this case the video shows both good and bad. I applaud the clerk for demonstrating proper use of a firearm.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2015 2:01 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 18 May 2015 14:01:59 -0400

I have a concealed weapons carry permit and I also know how to use my weapon and in this case I would hope that I would do the same thing, I can't stand a thief, if doesn't belong to you and you try to take without paying then you're a thief and you should be stopped by all means necessary that is if you're qualified to use a weapon. Then at such time it's a judgement call weather you pull out your weapon or not not

Response by CW2 Carl Swanson made May 18 at 2015 2:21 PM

CW2 Carl Swanson — Mon, 18 May 2015 14:21:25 -0400

Bad things happen to bad people everyday. They have to live with the poor decisions they make and this incident shows that you can never tell who is going to fight back.

Response by SPC Christopher Cramer made May 18 at 2015 3:25 PM

SPC Christopher Cramer — Mon, 18 May 2015 15:25:51 -0400

that clerk sure did have his head on right that day. just by looking at the video you could tell he was trying to remain as calm as humanly possible.

Response by SGT Joe Belisario made May 18 at 2015 4:02 PM

SGT Joe Belisario — Mon, 18 May 2015 16:02:16 -0400

Awesome restraint, if I draw I fire

Response by LCpl Stephen Cross made May 18 at 2015 4:17 PM

LCpl Stephen Cross — Mon, 18 May 2015 16:17:57 -0400

Same thing I don't like not carrying

Response by PO1 Jeffrey Phillips made May 18 at 2015 5:30 PM

PO1 Jeffrey Phillips — Mon, 18 May 2015 17:30:03 -0400

I have not carried in a long time and not had any of the current training, so I would not feel comfortable in that situation (Actually I don't carry for that reason). It takes practice, and muscle memory to pull that off.
That was perfectly played when the perp pulled his gun hand back to keep the pistol out of Vet's grasp rather than backing away and keeping teh weapon trained on the Vet he created the opening. To our Vet I say BZ.

Response by Sgt Felix Mourelo made May 18 at 2015 6:03 PM

Sgt Felix Mourelo — Mon, 18 May 2015 18:03:01 -0400

that's right and was in his rights to protect himself from harm

Response by SGT Richard Blue made May 18 at 2015 6:29 PM

SGT Richard Blue — Mon, 18 May 2015 18:29:43 -0400

That guy is crazy.

Response by SGT Tommy Silvas made May 18 at 2015 7:34 PM

SGT Tommy Silvas — Mon, 18 May 2015 19:34:53 -0400

If someone is pointing a gun at \me like that I must assume he intends to shoot me or there is a great chance i wil get shot, If I make that fatefull decision to pull my weapon I am immediately going to shoot. Pointing a gun at someone who is pointing a gun at you is asking to be shot, in a situation like that if you pull your weapon yuou have to use that guy got lucky

Response by TSgt Phil Textor made May 18 at 2015 7:50 PM

TSgt Phil Textor — Mon, 18 May 2015 19:50:02 -0400

The problem is the next guy will come in and just shoot the clerk.

Response by LCpl Terry Vallee made May 18 at 2015 10:49 PM

LCpl Terry Vallee — Mon, 18 May 2015 22:49:09 -0400

its not something every veteran should take on. it depends on wether or not you continue to continue training in some aspect
keeping your reflexes and knowledge is a must!

Response by SPC Kory Hartman made May 18 at 2015 11:57 PM

SPC Kory Hartman — Mon, 18 May 2015 23:57:56 -0400

Outstanding!!! I love seeing the good guys come ahead and a fellow Brother in Arms staying safe.

Response by SFC Joseph James made May 19 at 2015 1:23 AM

SFC Joseph James — Tue, 19 May 2015 01:23:58 -0400

Common Thief? "There is nothing common the way I thieve!" Lol

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2015 10:45 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2015 10:45:11 -0400

He handled the situation with a level head and grace....and that was enough to deter this thief. He seems to have exceptional training and that is what makes the difference between a good or poor reaction.

Response by Cpl Kristoffer Mischel made May 19 at 2015 10:49 AM

Cpl Kristoffer Mischel — Tue, 19 May 2015 10:49:52 -0400

That is awesome. I carry anytime I go out of the house and would never want to use my pistol. I like that he was able to resolve the issue without having to pull the trigger. Either way, he chose the wrong store to try to rob.

Response by SP5 Mandell Carolina made May 19 at 2015 12:09 PM

SP5 Mandell Carolina — Tue, 19 May 2015 12:09:45 -0400

That's it live or die

Response by PFC Scotty Smith made May 19 at 2015 2:30 PM

PFC Scotty Smith — Tue, 19 May 2015 14:30:44 -0400

Would have done the same thing.

Response by SFC James Fox made May 19 at 2015 4:20 PM

SFC James Fox — Tue, 19 May 2015 16:20:21 -0400

totaly sgree. also good that he said not every one should do it. also good to have the idiots face for all to see

Response by PFC Scott Palmer made May 19 at 2015 8:57 PM

PFC Scott Palmer — Tue, 19 May 2015 20:57:43 -0400

Just love our military trained men and women that won't stand for BS like that.

Response by Cpl Michael Burns made May 19 at 2015 10:55 PM

Cpl Michael Burns — Tue, 19 May 2015 22:55:31 -0400

No, if anyone deserves to own firearms, it's the veterans that defend the constitution that allows every American to own firearms.

Response by CPL Michael Cummins made May 20 at 2015 8:27 AM

CPL Michael Cummins — Wed, 20 May 2015 08:27:08 -0400

The great thing about military training is that it never leaves you. A big Hooah! To us select few.

Response by LCpl Tom Amacher made May 20 at 2015 8:53 AM

LCpl Tom Amacher — Wed, 20 May 2015 08:53:47 -0400

I hope he's not the exception, but more the majority. I'd have just shot the guy.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 11:50 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 20 May 2015 11:50:15 -0400

Nice, I love it. If we did that to all the " would be " dip shits, crime would drop dramatically.

Response by SFC Sean Davies made May 20 at 2015 1:50 PM

SFC Sean Davies — Wed, 20 May 2015 13:50:45 -0400

Nice

Response by SPC Lee Washington made May 20 at 2015 4:01 PM

SPC Lee Washington — Wed, 20 May 2015 16:01:14 -0400

Handled perfectly

Response by SPC Joseph Green made May 20 at 2015 4:50 PM

SPC Joseph Green — Wed, 20 May 2015 16:50:14 -0400

Same thing.....::: great job sir..

Response by SSG Glen Leatherbury made May 20 at 2015 5:42 PM

SSG Glen Leatherbury — Wed, 20 May 2015 17:42:19 -0400

I think the public is going to feel that we vets are expendable here as well as in iraq. The clerk should have just given him the money and reported it to the authorities. I don't think it was good judgement to act like he did unless of course his thinking was he didn't care if he got shot or not. PTSS can do weird things to a vets mind. However I am glad that he is alright and I hope in the future he will reflect back on this as he was lucky the thief didn't shoot him first.

Response by CWO3 Danny Vega made May 20 at 2015 6:09 PM

CWO3 Danny Vega — Wed, 20 May 2015 18:09:28 -0400

Awesome reaction to a potentially lethal situation. No blood was shed that day.

Response by PO2 Nathan Quinlan made May 20 at 2015 8:55 PM

PO2 Nathan Quinlan — Wed, 20 May 2015 20:55:41 -0400

I love it.

Response by PO3 Mike Brown made May 20 at 2015 9:44 PM

PO3 Mike Brown — Wed, 20 May 2015 21:44:31 -0400

Awesome response. Support our 2nd and don't leave home without your sidearm.

Response by SGT Forrest Medecke made May 21 at 2015 9:24 AM

SGT Forrest Medecke — Thu, 21 May 2015 09:24:37 -0400

The onlything i would have done different ia asshole wouldn't have been walking out cause i didn't see disarmed so i wouldn't leave an armed opponent walking

Response by FN George Finney made May 21 at 2015 7:06 PM

FN George Finney — Thu, 21 May 2015 19:06:52 -0400

Outstanding!

Response by SPC Glenn Hill III made May 21 at 2015 7:40 PM

SPC Glenn Hill III — Thu, 21 May 2015 19:40:37 -0400

I would have done the same thing.

Response by 1st Lt Dennis Whiton made May 21 at 2015 7:48 PM

1st Lt Dennis Whiton — Thu, 21 May 2015 19:48:08 -0400

Well done Sergeant!! I am not sure I would have let him go, but great job.

Response by Sgt Robert Holden made May 21 at 2015 8:55 PM

Sgt Robert Holden — Thu, 21 May 2015 20:55:53 -0400

Excellent response, the idiot is lucky he didn't paint the chip aisle with his brains. Nice and smooth reaction.

Response by Cpl Loren Salzer made May 21 at 2015 8:55 PM

Cpl Loren Salzer — Thu, 21 May 2015 20:55:43 -0400

Hell yea!

Response by PO3 Ronald Price made May 21 at 2015 10:41 PM

PO3 Ronald Price — Thu, 21 May 2015 22:41:00 -0400

Outstanding!!! He acted appropriately due to the circumstances. A great leader is one who leads by example. :-)

Response by PO2 David Fukuzawa made May 21 at 2015 11:47 PM

PO2 David Fukuzawa — Thu, 21 May 2015 23:47:53 -0400

Good Job!

Response by Cpl Justin Kerlina made May 22 at 2015 9:43 AM

Cpl Justin Kerlina — Fri, 22 May 2015 09:43:15 -0400

yut.

Response by SGT Wade Matsuda made May 22 at 2015 12:04 PM

SGT Wade Matsuda — Fri, 22 May 2015 12:04:11 -0400

should have pulled the trigger

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2015 12:52 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 May 2015 12:52:37 -0400

Very good video with excellent details on what he's been through and what he's capable of. i agree with jon santee, i also have my ccw in iowa and i carry my sig .40cal about 90% of the time everywhere i go due to the fact i have had the training since i was 7 till current along with 6 years in service. plain and simple the world and people have changed and not necessarily for the greater good side either. This video just goes to show you that with the proper training and discipline the 2nd Amendment shall always been enforced and exercised under the right circumstances.

Response by LtCol Christopher Ajinga made May 22 at 2015 1:06 PM

LtCol Christopher Ajinga — Fri, 22 May 2015 13:06:24 -0400

Good TTP on clerks part. Letting the criminal walk away was very risky. He could have started shooting. Since he drew a handgun no warning from me. Once my muzzle was clear he had a second to drop and surrender or I would've squeezed the trigger. No more threat and I go home to my bride! Very lucky.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2015 2:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 May 2015 14:35:51 -0400

So Endith The Lesson Wrong store Wrong Clerk

Response by SPC Kurt Boylen made May 22 at 2015 2:41 PM

SPC Kurt Boylen — Fri, 22 May 2015 14:41:14 -0400

I don't really understand how this could in anyway be controversial. A man, armed with a legal weapon, with police training, intervened in a robbery. I personally don't even think all those definitive positives needed to exist for this to still be an interaction without cause for controversy.

In some ways, I wish he had demanded to disarm the man before allowing him to leave. Keep up the good work!

Response by PVT William Walley made May 22 at 2015 3:31 PM

PVT William Walley — Fri, 22 May 2015 15:31:56 -0400

Same thing

Response by Cpl Luke Uebelher made May 22 at 2015 5:54 PM

Cpl Luke Uebelher — Fri, 22 May 2015 17:54:01 -0400

Good work in standing his ground, protecting the business and himself. Semper Fi.

Response by PFC David Chapman made May 22 at 2015 10:16 PM

PFC David Chapman — Fri, 22 May 2015 22:16:27 -0400

Its like this, ya gotta do whatcha gotta do.

Response by PO3 Glenn Philhower made May 23 at 2015 12:06 AM

PO3 Glenn Philhower — Sat, 23 May 2015 00:06:51 -0400

Very Nice work..

Response by SPC Scott Warrner made May 23 at 2015 2:13 AM

SPC Scott Warrner — Sat, 23 May 2015 02:13:24 -0400

Shot him

Response by SPC Vincenzo Minano made May 23 at 2015 12:28 PM

SPC Vincenzo Minano — Sat, 23 May 2015 12:28:01 -0400

This is why we deserve the respect we don't get enough of. just because we are/were Soldiers, Marines, Air force, Navy, doesn't mean that we are at the bottom of the chain, as I feel sometimes. do not underestimate us! We ALL deserve that respect. we do great things for OUR country and even those of us now with the problems we now have for protecting this country. even us disabled vets do so much good in this world. I appreciate everything you do, and have done. I am proud of us all! let's make this country a better place for everyone. if I had to do all again, even if I didn't, I would still do it all over again. my pain and suffering is for this country and NO ONE will take it from us! We did this for you, our great Americans. thank you.

Response by SGT Louis Bender made May 23 at 2015 12:56 PM

SGT Louis Bender — Sat, 23 May 2015 12:56:33 -0400

He did an excellent job of showing restraint. Myself, l would have also thumbed back the trigger so he knew l meant business.

Response by SPC Peter Hemingway made May 23 at 2015 2:22 PM

SPC Peter Hemingway — Sat, 23 May 2015 14:22:54 -0400

I'd have done the same, I carry always. Never less then two

Response by Cpl Vincent Infanti made May 23 at 2015 3:41 PM

Cpl Vincent Infanti — Sat, 23 May 2015 15:41:58 -0400

Wrong idea wrong person to try and rob,roe definitely on the money

Response by Cpl Korrey Ostler made May 23 at 2015 11:42 PM

Cpl Korrey Ostler — Sat, 23 May 2015 23:42:14 -0400

I'd a shot him!

Response by PO3 David Ojeda made May 24 at 2015 8:42 AM

PO3 David Ojeda — Sun, 24 May 2015 08:42:14 -0400

This is just a prime example why we should never take away, our 2nd amendment.

Response by SFC Myles White made May 24 at 2015 10:48 AM

SFC Myles White — Sun, 24 May 2015 10:48:10 -0400

I think using his weapon in his defense is his right. I think if you exercise that right it is your responsibility to be trained and competent! Good on him!

Response by SPC Anne Stepanovic made May 24 at 2015 12:10 PM

SPC Anne Stepanovic — Sun, 24 May 2015 12:10:33 -0400

In ALBUQUERQUE gas station attendants working graveyard shifts hide behind locked doors and push cigarettes and candy bars through a stupid mail slot like your visiting an inmate. It's ridiculous, circle k needs to cowboy up and issue the clerk a glock and get it over with.

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 1:55 PM

SrA Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 May 2015 13:55:43 -0400

Bravo to him !! His expertise in handling the situation was superb, but not all could move so swiftly.

Response by PO3 Jeremy Hastings made May 24 at 2015 2:27 PM

PO3 Jeremy Hastings — Sun, 24 May 2015 14:27:55 -0400

The truly sad thing is that this experienced vet is stuck working in a liquor store. I know, I was there.

Response by PO1 Jamie Turnham made May 24 at 2015 2:56 PM

PO1 Jamie Turnham — Sun, 24 May 2015 14:56:35 -0400

Not sure he would have had an option

Response by Cpl Mitchell McCann made May 24 at 2015 5:43 PM

Cpl Mitchell McCann — Sun, 24 May 2015 17:43:38 -0400

If carrying a weapon, I would of done the same thing. Good job well done.

Response by SPC Susan Flowers made May 24 at 2015 7:50 PM

SPC Susan Flowers — Sun, 24 May 2015 19:50:37 -0400

It's about time the bad guys lose

Response by PO3 Joy Kozlowski made May 24 at 2015 8:36 PM

PO3 Joy Kozlowski — Sun, 24 May 2015 20:36:55 -0400

Training was not for nothing and it might get rusty but it is never forgotten. The courage required to do the things we sent people to afganitan for does not go away.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2015 9:46 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 24 May 2015 21:46:50 -0400

Know how to use it, and use appropriately...

Response by SSgt Chad Knisley made May 25 at 2015 10:18 PM

SSgt Chad Knisley — Mon, 25 May 2015 22:18:52 -0400

It was the right thing to do "period"

Response by SA Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2015 6:38 AM

SA Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 26 May 2015 06:38:15 -0400

Thugs beware! :)

Response by A1C David Brown made May 26 at 2015 12:54 PM

A1C David Brown — Tue, 26 May 2015 12:54:28 -0400

Perfect! He handled the situation very well. One must understand that in a situation such as this, there is no law present to protect him. Amendments or whatever, they are not working at the moment and he needs to protect himself. He did the right thing by making him leave. It is not his duty to apprehend or to shoot the MF, just remove his threat. I applaud his confidence and keeping his cool!

Response by SPC Roy Collins made May 26 at 2015 9:09 PM

SPC Roy Collins — Tue, 26 May 2015 21:09:25 -0400

Proud of my veteran brother, he reacted just as he should have!

Response by SPC James Harper made May 26 at 2015 9:25 PM

SPC James Harper — Tue, 26 May 2015 21:25:14 -0400

I would have just turned the gun against him n made him fire himself self defense in my part

Response by PO2 Robert Rodriguez made May 27 at 2015 12:49 AM

PO2 Robert Rodriguez — Wed, 27 May 2015 00:49:17 -0400

exactly what I would have done..

Response by TSgt Charles Hilton made May 27 at 2015 4:23 AM

TSgt Charles Hilton — Wed, 27 May 2015 04:23:13 -0400

I am surprised the theif is still alive! I hope that incident changed his life around. God Bless you Jon Lewis-Alexander!

Response by HN Gary Walker made May 27 at 2015 8:31 AM

HN Gary Walker — Wed, 27 May 2015 08:31:01 -0400

Training is the keystone. Well done!

Response by SSG James Phillips made May 27 at 2015 9:12 AM

SSG James Phillips — Wed, 27 May 2015 09:12:16 -0400

The clerk had great response, and at the same time, notice his left hand caused the would be robber to lower his gun and would have been able to deflect if he raised it. He kept his hand there and gave no chance for the robber to recover, but only flee.

Great show of split-second decision making.

Response by Sgt Marcie Grenard made May 27 at 2015 12:40 PM

Sgt Marcie Grenard — Wed, 27 May 2015 12:40:38 -0400

Awesome job well done that is exactly what we do as military vets or active duty

Response by SGT Kenneth Warner made May 27 at 2015 6:29 PM

SGT Kenneth Warner — Wed, 27 May 2015 18:29:31 -0400

I just glade that out come was good . It's even better that he Use to be a MP . it could of went to the winds quick . I'm happy that it didn't. Thank you for your service,

Response by PO2 Edward DeRosia made May 28 at 2015 12:40 AM

PO2 Edward DeRosia — Thu, 28 May 2015 00:40:01 -0400

Good on him. Nuff said.

Response by HA James Ridgway made May 28 at 2015 2:23 AM

HA James Ridgway — Thu, 28 May 2015 02:23:17 -0400

I don't know if he represents the exception, Of course not all people react the same way in a stressful situation. Circumstances happened to be on the clerks side. To have his weapon handy and he had the element of surprise not to mention he had RIGHT on his side. I believe good people do what they must to survive. I think this presents a valid argument that disarming vets is unmerited. If you disarm innocent people you will make more victims for the predators to feed off of.

Response by SPC Anthony Karanovich made May 28 at 2015 9:47 AM

SPC Anthony Karanovich — Thu, 28 May 2015 09:47:26 -0400

Props to the clerk but it's was really risky pulling a gun at someone who already had his gun out and pointed at him.

Response by PO3 Roger Maddox made May 28 at 2015 12:44 PM

PO3 Roger Maddox — Thu, 28 May 2015 12:44:18 -0400

Robbers skivies need to be changed lol

Response by SGT Ryan Crezee made May 28 at 2015 2:09 PM

SGT Ryan Crezee — Thu, 28 May 2015 14:09:47 -0400

Exception to what? I would say he represents the status quo amongst gun owning veterans.

Response by PO3 Josie Buchanan made May 28 at 2015 3:03 PM

PO3 Josie Buchanan — Thu, 28 May 2015 15:03:07 -0400

Well done. If I had been behind the counter I don't know if I could have restrained myself from taking my weapon out and shooting him. I hope the owners of that store give him a much deserved raise.

Response by LCpl Steve Meyer made May 28 at 2015 10:02 PM

LCpl Steve Meyer — Thu, 28 May 2015 22:02:48 -0400

outstanding jarhead ooorah

Response by PO1 Charles Babcock made May 29 at 2015 12:06 AM

PO1 Charles Babcock — Fri, 29 May 2015 00:06:47 -0400

Looks like appropriate use of a firearm to me. Good Job.

Response by LCpl Leland Davis made May 29 at 2015 7:48 AM

LCpl Leland Davis — Fri, 29 May 2015 07:48:09 -0400

Yes, his actions isn't for everyone. I do commend them.

Response by SGT Jack Dotson made May 29 at 2015 2:16 PM

SGT Jack Dotson — Fri, 29 May 2015 14:16:32 -0400

He had the training to pull it off!!!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2015 4:38 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 May 2015 16:38:23 -0400

Respect for not pulling the trigger when he had every right and chance too..

Response by SPC Kim Bordeaux made May 29 at 2015 4:46 PM

SPC Kim Bordeaux — Fri, 29 May 2015 16:46:52 -0400

I agree with what he did. He followed the proper steps because of good training and good sense.

Response by SSG Roger Ayscue made May 29 at 2015 10:55 PM

SSG Roger Ayscue — Fri, 29 May 2015 22:55:18 -0400

He should have shot him. One less criminal on the ball of dirt

Response by SPC Joseph Durham made May 29 at 2015 11:50 PM

SPC Joseph Durham — Fri, 29 May 2015 23:50:28 -0400

He would have been in his rights to fire. But police now know who to arrest. Situation was handled professionally.

Response by SGT Samuel Reed made May 30 at 2015 2:21 PM

SGT Samuel Reed — Sat, 30 May 2015 14:21:52 -0400

Good reaction, but I wouldn't have left the culprit leave. Custody and control.

Response by Sgt Den OBrien made May 30 at 2015 5:47 PM

Sgt Den OBrien — Sat, 30 May 2015 17:47:30 -0400

Good job...he showed restraint towards the scummer. Quick change of subject......I see cigarettes listed for 2.09 a pack and $20.49 a carton....I guess MO is the place I'd go if I still smoked. Where I'm at 8 or 9 dollars a pack is the norm. "buttleggers" take heed.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2015 12:09 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 May 2015 00:09:47 -0400

I react to this video firstly by giving the Veteran major props for the way he handled the situation. Clearly under most jurisdictions he would have been justified in applying greater force than he exercised in this robbery attemp. The Veteran took control of the situation and remained in control. He met deadly force with deadly force all the while exercising restraint and control. He could have shot the robber and most likely killed him at that range and with his background.

I can't say I agree with the second question as you have posed it. I find that many Veterans are more confident in their ability to employ fire arms than their civilan counter parts. Their familurity, abilities and training many times allows them to assess and employ courses of actions that civilians would be second guessing. I don't see Veterans as violent gun owners but rather capabile gun owners that can and will commit to a course of action once decided upon. We have been trained to act predicated on the situation and resources at our disposal as the situation developes.

A violent person would have used this opportunity to shoot and kill the would be robber under the guise of self defense, protecting the employers property as well as "he drew first."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2015 12:22 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 May 2015 00:22:24 -0400

I give the Veteran major Props for exercising the control and restraint that he did in taking control of the situation and responding to the threat.

I’m not sure what the second question means by exception amongst gun owning Veterans. I know many Veterans who own firearms and are capable of handling a situation like the one in the video. I will grant that there are more than a few who would have pulled the trigger if for no other reason than they could and most likely not face prosecution given that the unsuccessful armed robber drew first with deadly force. Given the situation the Veteran in the Video felt he had the situation in hand.

He responded with the threat of controlled deadly force and chose to deescalate the amount of force to the level necessary to stop the robbery attempt and force the perpetrator to leave the premises empty handed and probably grateful to be alive or recovering in an ICU somewhere.

Response by SFC Brian Williams made May 31 at 2015 2:30 PM

SFC Brian Williams — Sun, 31 May 2015 14:30:15 -0400

That's the standard Hooah

Response by SGT Richard Schaut Jr. made May 31 at 2015 3:26 PM

SGT Richard Schaut Jr. — Sun, 31 May 2015 15:26:36 -0400

Outstanding

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2015 8:30 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 May 2015 20:30:16 -0400

I'd say the majority. Servicemen are trained and disciplined.

Response by SFC Jere Hodges made Jun 1 at 2015 9:55 AM

SFC Jere Hodges — Mon, 01 Jun 2015 09:55:02 -0400

I commend the clerk for being ready, but this is a case of a man pulling a gun who was not prepared to use it.

If the robber had actually been prepared to use it, the clerk would have been dead before he had a chance to draw.

I'd suggest the robber find someplace to donate his firearm.

Like my grandpa taught me - NEVER pull a gun on a man unless you're ready to use it.

Response by SFC Lisa Hirst made Jun 3 at 2015 12:02 PM

SFC Lisa Hirst — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 12:02:51 -0400

1st off if I was working in a store like that I would be carrying a weapon as well. These kind of stores are always getting robbed and I couldn't work at a place like that unless I felt safe

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 3 at 2015 10:00 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Jun 2015 22:00:24 -0400

Badass. Well done brother.

Response by CPL Robert Washington made Jun 5 at 2015 3:30 AM

CPL Robert Washington — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 03:30:04 -0400

Love this...

Response by SP6 Michael Herrera made Jun 6 at 2015 5:33 PM

SP6 Michael Herrera — Sat, 06 Jun 2015 17:33:52 -0400

Two weeks after 9/11, at age 53, I was walking back from a restaurant near LAX when a punk, big black and stupid, tried to rob me with a gun. He was trying to lure me into an alley but I walked fast right by it, when he realized I foiled his plan. He stopped at the corner but I continued on that is when he threatened to shoot me right there if I didn't hand over my wallet. So I backed up alongside him and watched him. When he perceived I was not going to comply with his demand, he reached into his pocket to retrieve his gun, and that is when I shuffled in and delivered a karate chop to his Adam's apple, delivered a left hook into his face, and then followed up with my left knee into his abdomen. He fell to the ground totally discomfited while I continued to pommel him. He managed to get away from me and so I chased after him but then realized I made my point and went back to the corner. He stopped and looked at me and I defiantly got into a fighting stance. Sheer terror filled his eyes as he shook his hands vigorously in front of him indicating he had enough. I ran back to the restaurant and called the police and filed a report when they came.

Response by SFC Joe Daniels made Jun 7 at 2015 9:39 AM

SFC Joe Daniels — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 09:39:18 -0400

I believe in shoot first attitude...Cleanup later....I keep the "Judge" ready "a 410/45" but I keep the 410 round on the ready... always with me...and Ruger 9mm for home....

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2015 9:53 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 09:53:34 -0400

Good on him. I'll bet that would have been robber will think twice next time.

Response by CPL Matthew Victor Spagnuolo made Jun 7 at 2015 11:20 PM

CPL Matthew Victor Spagnuolo — Sun, 07 Jun 2015 23:20:42 -0400

I would have done the same thing! Pull my .40 Cal glock model 22 in his face!

Response by LCDR Bruce Cooley made Jun 8 at 2015 3:10 PM

LCDR Bruce Cooley — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 15:10:51 -0400

The exact the same thing!!!!!

Response by PFC Jason Jaggers made Jun 15 at 2015 2:44 PM

PFC Jason Jaggers — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 14:44:21 -0400

Awesome job Semper Fi til I die oooohraaah

Response by PO3 F D made Jun 17 at 2015 3:11 PM

PO3 F D — Wed, 17 Jun 2015 15:11:09 -0400

Hoorah to this effin motivator!

Response by SPC(P) Carlos Santini made Jun 18 at 2015 2:22 PM

SPC(P) Carlos Santini — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 14:22:04 -0400

That clerk handled just like I would have. We need more people that will stand up to these punks.

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made Jun 27 at 2015 11:24 AM

MAJ Ron Peery — Sat, 27 Jun 2015 11:24:30 -0400

This is rather old news (about 2 years, I think). I would have simply shot the crook. Probably several times, just to be sure. But Mr. Alexander's tactics worked, so all I can say is "congratulations."

Response by SPC William Warner made Aug 19 at 2015 2:44 PM

SPC William Warner — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 14:44:08 -0400

I would have probably reacted the same way.

Response by SGT Scott Bell made Aug 30 at 2015 12:55 PM

SGT Scott Bell — Sun, 30 Aug 2015 12:55:44 -0400

The same