VetSpective: What Is A Veteran's Role Within The “Gun Debate"? — Lead Locally

CPT Alex Gallo — Thu, 24 May 2018 15:03:09 -0400

Following the heartbreaking school shooting in Santa Fe, Texas — coming only a few months after the Parkland High School shooting — many are naturally asking what can be done to decrease these tragedies in our country.

I want to ask: What is the role for Veterans within this context?

I don’t believe there is a new or unique role for Veterans within this federal-level debate over guns in the United States. And, in any case, the federal debate is not where any meaningful solutions or insights will be realized or achieved in the near term.

The role for Veterans within the so-called “gun debate” is not at the federal level — it’s at the local level.

When I, as a parent, think about about all we do for our children — teaching them, taking them to their next practice or game, walking them to the bus stop or school, thinking of that very special Christmas present or birthday surprise, the hug, the kiss, and even the times we have to scold or punish them so that they can learn and grow — it becomes crystal clear, not to mention deeply relevant for the “gun debate,” just how much we pour our heart and soul into our kids. For, they are our future. And then to have them taken from us — in an instant — through events like Parkland or Santa Fe…there are no words. None at all.

Veterans seem to generally reflect our country’s divisions on guns — consistent with the current political paradigm — with Republicans, on the one hand, justly overlaying the Constitutional argument and emphasizing the Bill of Rights protections; and Democrats, on the other side, appropriately highlighting safety and security concerns and asking what role guns within these tragic events.

It is within this fraught political context that the National Rifle Association — known for its unflinching support for gun ownership — has turned the Democratic argument on its head. The NRA agrees there is a safety and security problem and argues that the solution is more guns and more people trained to use guns — not fewer.

Democrats have similarly taken the other side’s argument and turned it on its head — acknowledging the universality of the Constitutional protections for gun ownership, yet arguing that such protections must comport with a 21st century context.

In short, the two major sides of the federal debate are dug in and using the other side’s arguments to justify their own objectives — a debate that is also sufficiently esoteric, deeply philosophical, and, therefore, disconnected from the realities on the ground.

At the local level, Veterans have the greatest opportunity for positive impact because we are leaders. And the local level is where interaction with “the people” — both gun owners as well as victims of gun violence — truly unfolds.

Up to now, all sides have framed the gun issue, and any potential solutions, within the context of government. But there is significant untapped space at the local level that Veterans are uniquely positioned to lead: civil society.

I wonder if Veterans could bring our experiences as armorers, and with unit arms rooms, to civil society. Could gun clubs be revived and renewed?

What if Veterans established a network of gun clubs across the United States. Places that are useful, practical, and philosophically consistent with the US Constitution — fixing and maintaining guns for its membership.

Perhaps any new gun regulations that would be applied to individual gun owners is not achievable, but could regulations on gun clubs be embraced?

While individual gun owners — Veterans and non-Veterans — would have to opt-in to these Veteran-run gun clubs, such clubs could ultimately test any future gun regulation and serve as consensus-building mechanisms for any future regulations on guns in the United States.

Surely more ideas. But to achieve any change, Veterans must show leadership on these seemingly intractable issues at the local level.

We, Veterans, must find ways to fundamentally change the nature of, and context surrounding, the great debates of our time — including our debate over guns.

Because then, and only then, can our deeply fractured country begin to move forward — the greatest of contributions to our country that we, Veterans, can ultimately make.

Alex Gallo is the author of VetSpective and a Veteran.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made May 24 at 2018 3:06 PM

CW5 Jack Cardwell — Thu, 24 May 2018 15:06:09 -0400

No different than any US citizen.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 24 at 2018 3:11 PM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Thu, 24 May 2018 15:11:39 -0400

Excellent article share sir.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made May 24 at 2018 4:18 PM

SSG Warren Swan — Thu, 24 May 2018 16:18:42 -0400

The NRA doesn’t believe that weapons and 2A are universal. It’s ‘universal’ for a certain demographic, and it’s shown quite often by them. Everyone wants to talk about California’s extremely restrictive gun laws without acknowledging how they came to be, and how they’ve been progressively made worse.
Veterans role in anything 2A based is to show restraint while showing leadership. I own quite a few weapons and don’t feel the need to brag or join groups who are there to make divisions rather than inclusions. I talk to others without condescending remarks that make light of another’s feelings towards weapons, and I try not to use political labels as a means to justify what I say. Doesn’t always work, but I try. With that, as vets we have a duty to continue to inform objectively and honestly regarding the pros and cons of weapons. It’s our duty to listen intently to problems and provide workable solutions that don’t make the situation worse by escalation. We should work with lawmakers who are often more confused regarding weapons then the general public regarding safe use, storage, and employment of firearms. Note I didn’t say make ridiculous videos where one can’t even understand how the M4 actually works. We have the ability to make influence stick, but we’re not always fully engaged or we’re too busy fighting each other touting ‘kills’, MOS’s, and service branch as our justification why my opinions are better than yours. Heaven forbid you go against a long tabber or a Budweiser owner and tell them you’re wrong. Tried that and it didn’t end well for me.
https://www.history.com/news/black-panthers-gun-control-nra-support-mulford-act

The NRA Supported Gun Control When the Black Panthers Had the Weapons

Back in the 1960s, gun control had surprising support.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 24 at 2018 5:05 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 24 May 2018 17:05:09 -0400

Make schools like an airport.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 5:21 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 17:21:15 -0400

First, I don't separate my military service from other aspects of my life, it has after all shaped me into who I am in many ways. But, as a parent, I see some parenting problems with the Santa fe incident. If any parent allows, permits or facilitates their child adoration with Nazi or other extremist culture, it's a parenting fail!

Response by MAJ Joshua Entrekin made May 24 at 2018 5:25 PM

MAJ Joshua Entrekin — Thu, 24 May 2018 17:25:01 -0400

As military people we went to months of "gun" training, to the nth degree in some cases. as was stated before, my life and my service are 1 in the same. the 2nd amendment was written in a completely different time and a different circumstance. the gun violence lately has come from irresponsibility not control.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 5:27 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 17:27:18 -0400

I personally don't think being a veteran makes someone any more knowledgeable about gun control than a non veteran. I, like most of us in the military, have served with plenty of people who never should have been allowed inside a recruiters office. Yet, they are veterans. Many with combat experience. Other veterans who serve their country with distinction do so inside a submarine, or in an office, or a plane, or in some other place far, far away from a gun. I'm not knocking those guys. Those jobs have to be done. But the experience they come out of the military with is not gun related.

The idea of gun clubs (as a solution) is scary to me. First, they'll be voluntary. Then we'll gradually slide into it becoming a requirement for owning guns. Right now we have some power with our anonymity. Gun clubs will form us into neat little groups which will be easier to target. I may be going all "conspiracy theory" here but that's the mood I'm in right now. Just my opinion.

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made May 24 at 2018 6:00 PM

MSG Danny Mathers — Thu, 24 May 2018 18:00:21 -0400

Depends on the veteran. Most veterans have the discipline and training with rifles but pistols are a different matter. Pistols required training, more training and practise. Furthermore, armed people guarding school kids have to be certified to state stardards, the same as police. They have to pass the due dillenge mentally and legally. Point is, some veterans could provide a service just as any civilan. There is more to this than giving a veteran a guard job; he/she must be certified and qualified to do so. Opinions vary.....

Response by CW5 Ranger Dave made May 24 at 2018 7:02 PM

CW5 Ranger Dave — Thu, 24 May 2018 19:02:45 -0400

More guns than I need and less than I want.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 24 at 2018 7:55 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Thu, 24 May 2018 19:55:37 -0400

I don't believe that gun control is the answer so much as kid control. When I was growing up an occasional fistfight, knowing the a spanking was attached was big news. We had guns in the house, I hunted, and I knew not to touch/play or act up around guns. My parents knew who my friends were, where we played and all the neighbors will call if I did something wrong. I was taught to respect others, my seniors and adults. Today's kids make pipe bombs in the basement and the parents KNOW nothing, don't know what their kids are up to and with who, and frankly do a lousy job of supervision. Kids seem to be taught that their rights are the only thing that counts, and that they can do as they please. It appears many want to be rappers or gang-bangers and bullying is ok, if the person who is bullied isn't in their cliché.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made May 24 at 2018 9:13 PM

CPT Jack Durish — Thu, 24 May 2018 21:13:02 -0400

A fair question and a fair narrative. However, I believe that it overlooks one important element. Is it possible that the gun debate is not political? That it's not a Republican vs Democrat thing. Nor that it's a Left vs Right thing. Although, to be honest, there is plenty of evidence that Leftist governments have historically opposed having its citizenry armed (Nazi Germany, Soviet Russia, Socialist Venezuela) so that they are more tractable. I suspect that the gun debate in this nation at this time is more a matter of fear. Those who are afraid of guns vs those who are not. Those who equate guns with violence vs those who equate guns with more civilized pursuits. It's easy to confuse guns with violence because they are most often featured in crimes as the tools of violent people. In their fear they fail to see the fact that guns are far more often not used to commit violence. They see the act and cower in fear, and the gun becomes their focus. An interesting fact about fear is that it is contagious. A crowd can be turned to panic by just one person. The person who yells fire in a crowded theater sets off a chain reaction. Those nearest to him react and their reaction cause others to react until the who crowd stampedes and people are trampled and crushed. Thus it is with guns, especially for those who are unfamiliar with them. If my observations are correct, then it is possible for veterans to help. We are, after all, familiar with guns. Few veterans fear them. We can calm others around us by absorbing their fear and not reflecting it. We can speak quietly and rationally about guns. In the midst of mayhem, we can respond as we were trained rather than joining the stampede.

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made May 24 at 2018 9:30 PM

MSG Jay Jackson — Thu, 24 May 2018 21:30:54 -0400

It’s a shame that we are having these shootings in our schools. And again we have both sides calling for their favorite remedy. Bottom line for me is protect the schools like the politicians are protected. Go to your local seat of government and see how many cops
are there or security folks. Let’s let politicians carry guns for protection, and put the security folks on duty at our schools. Besides I would love to see some of our politicians with a piece on their hip. I bet the hearing and meeting would be more civil.

Response by SSgt Christopher Brose made May 25 at 2018 2:44 AM

SSgt Christopher Brose — Fri, 25 May 2018 02:44:07 -0400

"Veterans seem to generally reflect our country’s divisions on guns — consistent with the current political paradigm — with Republicans, on the one hand, justly overlaying the Constitutional argument and emphasizing the Bill of Rights protections; and Democrats, on the other side, appropriately highlighting safety and security concerns and asking what role guns within these tragic events. "

This is a mischaracterization. It is true that Republicans focus on the Constitution & Bill of Rights, but we're the ones who also call for abolishing gun free zones and call for an armed presence at schools. Democrats typically focus on the role of guns in these shootings, but they also invariably call for some type of gun restrictions.

Response by Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay made May 25 at 2018 7:05 AM

Sgt Ramon Nacanaynay — Fri, 25 May 2018 07:05:49 -0400

"There, but for the Grace of God goes I." , but can we better embrace a calling for Nonviolence - from a Veterans For Peace and Pax Christi member.

Response by LTC John Wilson made May 25 at 2018 7:42 AM

LTC John Wilson — Fri, 25 May 2018 07:42:52 -0400

All Veterans took an oath to support and defend the US Constitution. That oath doesn't expire the day said Veteran receives their DD214.

The Second Amendment recognizes a preexisting, Natural Right of the individual right to keep and bear arms in order to preserve all other Natural Rights (to include but not limited to the right to life, liberty, and private property). And even if the People shpuld decide to "repeal" the Second Amendment, no one may repeal or amend the Laws of Nature and Nature's God upon which our entire system -- and our inherent, unalienable right to self defense -- is based.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 10:03 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 10:03:44 -0400

Alex- A good share, and some good thoughts. Here's my take; as a veteran, parent, Christian, and owner of firearms:

Let's make one thing abundantly clear here; the RIGHT to own individual weapons is essential to a free society. Why? Because only a citizenry that is both armed and skilled in the use of arms has any weight in determining how they are governed and ensuring their own protection when that government cannot (or fails to) protect them. The 2nd Amendment isn't about hunting, recreation or collecting. It's not about going out and spending a fortune on guns and gear one doesn't know how to use effectively to "be cool". It's pragmatic and objective...not esoteric or subjective.

As veterans, we all took oaths to support and defend the Constitution. Admittedly, this sometimes get's over-stated (after all, we're cogs in a very big machine), and functionally, that means different things to different people. For me, it meant that so long as I wore the uniform, I had an obligation to act in full support of these precepts without any reservations borne from personal belief or ideology. Now, as a private citizen, I consider my choice to continue to support the Constitution to be one of personal franchise in the nation I reside in...vs. merely existing under the rule of a society I happen to live in. My weapons, just like my vote, are part of that commitment. That's never been about standing "against" my nation's government...but rather, continuing to offer myself in defense of all it should represent from threats without and within.

As parents, our first thought is the safety of our children. There's no doubt that if I could snap my fingers and make every firearm, round of ammunition (let alone any other weapons), and even the knowledge of how to make them disappear from human existence...I'd do it. Since that's impossible, part of keeping my family TRULY safe is ensuring that first, I can stand between them and danger...and second, but no less important, that they can respond to their own defense. That begins with physical/mental/emotional fitness, situational awareness and the ability to think and act clearly in a crisis. At some point, it comes down to passing along skills and abilities that my child will hopefully develop further, and continue to practice-pass on to the next generation. This, more than anything else, is how warrior societies are maintained. Warriors are much harder targets than mere subjects.

As a follower of Christ, and the words of God the Father, I cannot escape the commandment, "Thou shalt not kill". It's taken a lifetime of study; both of scripture, the context and language it was originally written in, and how it has been applied throughout history to understand what that truly means. Obviously, it cannot mean never to take any form of life under any circumstance-that, or the scriptures are false, as many references to which animals may be used as food, and many more references to "just" war are included. My peace is that God commands us to take no human life for the sake of our own pride, selfishness, cruelty or power...and that when we do so justly, it is evil works, not the people committing them that we fight against. Moreover, I believe that a person who fights against murderous evil without sinful motivations, compelled only by justice...is often being used (and yes, often protected) by God for the greater good.

There's simply no way to preserve all of the above in a society where a weapon is locked behind the gates of a "gun club", or required by law to be limited to the point of being nothing more than a ceremonial item. A weapon locked in it's box is never going to be available when you need it most. There's no moral superiority to killing an assailant with a .22 or a .410 as opposed to 5.56 or .45 ammunition; nor any outcome of decreasing the number of said rounds available other than increasing the risk to the user.

At the end of the day, the young man who committed the most recent atrocity didn't go and take his father's weapons and kill people because they weren't properly secured...he did it because he emerged from childhood without the correct respect for life, introspection and values that prohibit sane, just, moral people from doing the same.

You can't "regulate" that.

I won't blame people I don't know, and who are struggling themselves to comprehend...but that process MUST begin at home, in the family.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 11:50 AM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 11:50:59 -0400

To honor our oaths and defend the US Constitution, not a person or party, from all enemies, foreign and domestic.

Response by SGT Rick Colburn made May 25 at 2018 12:04 PM

SGT Rick Colburn — Fri, 25 May 2018 12:04:25 -0400

I say put 2 to 3 armed vets in schools they love and will protect the kids and teachers at all cost if shooters knew they probably wouldn't survive attacking a school they would be less likely to try it however there would still be some that knowing that would probably think they would be going out in a "blaze of glory" when in actuality they and their families would be hated and ridiculed JUST MY OPINION

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made May 25 at 2018 1:26 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Fri, 25 May 2018 13:26:43 -0400

I recently spoke at a local town hall meeting. I only had a few minutes but I was opposed to a measure to that would of placed an immediate moratorium on any new place with in the city limits, after a company had broken ground. This is liberal California, and the opposition was fierce. The city approved the measure and now is in a legal dispute with the company for loss of fees as they had started construction on the new place.
So to answer your question, we as citizens should speak for things we are for or against.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 3:45 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 15:45:27 -0400

Veterans have absolutely no special legal standing in the community. We can continue to volunteer but more than that is not possible. Some communities don’t even want us deranged, PTSD, baby killing Vets. You know- some more liberal communities that are so compassionate, inclusive, and tolerant. Just saying.

Response by PO3 Donald Murphy made May 25 at 2018 9:55 PM

PO3 Donald Murphy — Fri, 25 May 2018 21:55:21 -0400

While ideas and think tanks are all full of interesting, workable and unworkable ideas, the crux of the matter is the introduction of the weapon onto the campus. Therein lies the issue. Metal detectors work. When they're plugged in. Problem is that when EVERY student and adult has to leave and enter through one, you'd be surprised how retardation of parents sets in (republican as well as democrat) and within a few short months, said detectors will be removed, unplugged, etc. So while arming teachers, veterans teaching/patrolling are all very nice ideas, the better solution is to stop the weapon at the door.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 10:46 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 22:46:52 -0400

I'm still trying to wrap my head around the idea that guns are looked at as bad instead of people who use the tool and for ill will.

As a parent, I supported the 2A because it was what seperate America from most of the world. A foreign power will be deeply crushed when we have an armed society and not just a military. I grew up with my army vet mom who believed guns kill people, people don't kill people. That's her way and I love her. But it's not how I've raised my daughter. And I believe that's a huge difference between a topic being political to civil is about the family unit. How a child is raised makes a huge difference on their decision making process. If the parenting topic is just on guns, these are my main topics of concern.

Safety: it's either locked up or disassembled. I know where it is at all times and I have the only key of the lock.
Training: I teach my daughter about my gun. If it's loaded or unloaded and how you can tell. I help demystify the weapon by not hiding it from her when I'm going out or when I'm cleaning it. It's not to be something to be afraid of but to respect. It's just a tool and I try to inform her that it's nothing cool or amazing or a scary monster. It's another tool I have that I hope to train her on it so that she may have it when she is older.
Respect: Understanding it's destructive capabilities (that's age appropriate) and to know that it's not scary. If she isn't scared of a steak knife, she isn't scared of a gun.

I've brought her to the on-post range and tried to teach her. I'm better teaching soldiers then my child how to shoot, and the gentleman who runs the range did a great job helping her through her worries and showing that guns aren't scary.

She is being raised to know that weapons are used and that they hurt or kill people. That training and regular exposure to with our local community helps her gain experience. In my hopes, allows her to grow up liking guns and not fearing them. And giving her a chance to build an opinion on them for when she is older and starting her family.

Response by SGT Donald Howard made May 26 at 2018 4:27 AM

SGT Donald Howard — Sat, 26 May 2018 04:27:17 -0400

Captain, On our end the best we can do is to try and educate those we come into contact with who show little or no experience and/or knowledge of fire arms or what they say reveals that what they do know is what they have been misinformed of by a media that is both less than honest about the issue for ideology's sake and usually as unknowledgeable. Beyond that, until the root cause(s) like the culture and many of the societal norms that were discarded in the sixties as hoakey and out of date like individual accountability and responsibility. Many people scoff at or simply don't want to admit to themselves that there is an element in this nation that is and has been for over 7 decades, patiently , methodically and incrementally been relentlessly working toward the goal of eliminating this nation as it was founded. They have taken over the public schools and universities,overwhelmingly control the news and electronic media and film, music and entertainment industries which have huge influences on the culture. That is only a small snap shot of the list of problems. At the same time, that element I mentioned that has patiently been working at eliminating the republic as it was founded, along with the political elites, so long as American's have the 2nd amendment and their fire arms, that makes their ultimate goal of government as servant to the people to people ruled by government of the elite extremely difficult if not near impossible. I don't need to write a book here Captain, but our roll is limited until this society and the citizens in it, acknowledge the root of the problem(s) which admittedly to fix them, would require an enormous effort and will of the people if it is even possible, if it were attempted, it could be several generations. As veterans, we can best do any good by working to effect the people within our immediate communities and personal lives.

Response by SGM Jeffrey Hall made May 26 at 2018 3:05 PM

SGM Jeffrey Hall — Sat, 26 May 2018 15:05:39 -0400

I continue to be surprised by this debate. Why people on the political left regularly argue for gun control is stunning. Why attack a right rather than the conditions which are fostering this act?

There seems to be a some common links among most of these mass shootings. Mental health is one issue. Lawfully obtained guns being used by persons who can not lawfully obtain them is another issue. Finally hate is another.

Beginning with hate, the San Bernardino shooters (terrorism) and the congressional baseball practice (ultra left), no law would have prevented these shooters.

Children taking their parents guns is another issue. Parents are responsible for the safe storage of their weapons. The issue is not background checks, it's safe storage.

Mental health is a big issue. This issue is much larger than the "guns are evil" stance that is pervasive. As a mental health provider, there are many laws which protect the privacy of the client, as well there should be, but there are not many ways that providers can warn authorities. I feel that there is a significant gap in the law there. Also, there is a lot of stigma associated with therapy. This may prevent people who need help from seeking it.

Very few of these issues relate to the gun itself. This is like banning cars to cut down on drunk driving. As a veteran, I feel it is my obligation to protect my family and I elect to do that by owning weapons and carrying where legally permitted. My weapons were bought new so the state is aware of the purchase. I have a concealed carry permit, allowing me to carry a handgun. I am trained in the safe use of my firearms and can employ them with great efficiency. Also, my weapons are not accessible to children, as my kids are grown and out of the home.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made May 26 at 2018 4:00 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Sat, 26 May 2018 16:00:13 -0400

It would appear that you are asking us to violate our oaths.

I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

The Constitution is for all citizens - not just the military - which what appears you are advocating.

I have been retired now for longer than I served in the Army. I have many friends that have never served at the national level of Active, Reserve or Guard Duty and to speak plainly - I believe you are planning on leaving them out of the equation. They are PD, FD, EMS, mayors, aldermen and other.

They deserve a place in your scenario for they are good and solid citizens.

Response by CW5 John M. made May 26 at 2018 9:38 PM

CW5 John M. — Sat, 26 May 2018 21:38:26 -0400

The 1950's differed from today in substantial ways IMHO: First, Guns were available and easy to get. Back then was a prevalent Judeao-Christion society that had not yet experienced what we've experienced today. The moral decline occurred in small but growing "steps", which are at a "tipping point" of no return. Children grew up in the fifties with no exposures to the kind of society we see today. Families stayed largely intact. Makes sense. Guns were NOT a problem then and NOT the problem now.

Children born today are no different than the children of the fifties, with the exception that they are now exposed early to a completely different culture. Today, we see Societal "sociopathic" tendencies, complacency, apathy, gratuitous violence, graphic and sexual "entertainment" of all stripes, loss of innocence at younger ages, drug abuse, instant gratification, a widespread sense of entitlement, a lack of empathy, immorality in social media settings, cyber bullying, broken families and poor parenting. There is a prevalence of "refusal" to take responsibility - it's always someone else's fault. There is "moral relativism" and indoctrination at all levels of education with an anemic legal system. Blaming or Taking away guns from a society like this will not "fix" the root problems - they will turn to other means if killing and maiming.

Society today is a reflection of it's sins and Godlessness.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (KJV): This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2018 9:50 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 May 2018 21:50:11 -0400

We're all AMCITs that have taken at least one Oath to US Constitution. So, no more or less than anyone else, except we have put our skin in the game in the past.

Response by SMSgt Jeff Kyle made May 27 at 2018 7:40 AM

SMSgt Jeff Kyle — Sun, 27 May 2018 07:40:15 -0400

I would gladly stand guard at the front or rear doors of the local high schools in order to help protect our kids.

Response by SFC Robert Walton made May 27 at 2018 8:56 AM

SFC Robert Walton — Sun, 27 May 2018 08:56:49 -0400

My role and Veterans, Active Duty, Retired, or Civilians, in the gun debate and violence on our people and children should be the same. We are a country of laws now I am no expert and I do not have stats (most are flawed) but I would take a Guess that we have more laws than any other country Bare None. Which at this point makes me question what we do on a daily basis. Venturing another Guess I would say most of America including Military personnel Manage on a daily basis to violate a Law, or Morality, Honor, on and on before we leave the drive way for work in the morning and if not before we arrive at work.

Now if we were to follow all of the laws and set the example for everyone else, Maybe, Just Maybe things would change not likely however even the people who make the laws violate them. I Retired about a year ago so now I have a lot of time to think and observe (should I decide to) and it would be of my humble opinion that we as a country are the problem and are the answer to the problem.

We all have our rights and are experts in what our right are (some of which do not apply to us) We Are personally offended by everything and have absolutely no time for the things we should be doing we let the media lead us around by the nose and use defeating terms Like " Things are what they are", We Vote in Law makers and don't hold them accountable while they make the laws with out us or the Constitution in mind then we vote the same law makers back in who have exempt themselves from said laws, so they can make more laws that are not needed, not wanted, or don't apply, all because some one ignored or just refused to follow the old laws. (helps justify there job and big paycheck).

We must follow the laws that are in place and set the example. If you are driving down the road taking your Child to school before work and chunk your candy wrapper out the window, your child sees that and will follow suit, if you do stop at the stop sigh Just role through because your a little late your child sees that and will follow suit. How do you fix it? SET THE EXAMPLE Leave earlier, put your trash in the trash bag or your pocket.

It will take 60 years or so to make a difference but the effect will be true. Mean while fix the unprotected schools, I used to work for the schools local and moved to something else because of the uncaring attitude of the staff from the top to the bottom. It was making me insane so I move else where for a job. Just some examples doors propped open by a staff member because they do not want to use the key, back packs boxes brief cases left in the hall way very out of place you report it ANSWER Oh don't worry about it someone just forgot. Really you forgot the one thing you absolutely need to do what your there for? I personally checked my kids back packs every day, every day. After I checked them they went on the couch until going to school. Nothing in it I did not know about. We now have state of the art security systems for schools. Expensive, how ever who puts the price tag on a child's life?

I could keep going but enough is enough secure our schools spend the money.
Good Security not a Staff member busy chatting or on the cell phone. Get the goood stuff cams, alarms, auto door locks, security Fobs push in emergency,(they fit around your neck) all monitored by the local Police department and the school district, and school Security Staff. My two cents

Response by CPT George Langley made May 27 at 2018 4:01 PM

CPT George Langley — Sun, 27 May 2018 16:01:02 -0400

I know this will not be popular with my fellow veterans, but I think you are getting a little too full of yourself. It is a dangerous thing when veterans start thinking they are better than their fellow citizens in ways such as leadership and/or political savvy. Remember, we served them, not the other way around.
Frankly, I have no higher opinion of a Navy SEAL with a Purple Heart as a philosopher or politician than I do of a woman who has spent her life in a wheelchair. Not better or worse. Just people, all of us. Nor do I think that a veteran necessarily has a greater understanding of firearms (or as civilians say "guns") than lots of civilians have. It just ain't so, especially if the veteran was a submariner, an electronics technician, or any number of other jobs that do not involve carrying a firearm every day.
My attitude towards veterans, and I have a right to say this because I am a veteran, is that while we have done something special for a time, we are just like any other person in the long run and that is because we are all citizen-soldiers. Every one of us was and is capable of screwing up before, during, or after service. We have had our share of good people and bad people among our ranks, of bank robbers and rapists, and of saintly or heroic behavior far from any battlefield. Some become very successful, while others become homeless.
Double shocker here: I think that the vast majority of the homeless veterans we see pictures of are fakes, but few civilians have any clue about how to spot them. At the time when active duty service member suicides were really big news, I looked up the civilian per capita numbers and they were exactly the same!
Let us not forget political views. There are lots of veterans who run for office as Democrats, and I find it disgusting that Republicans claim to have a monopoly on the flag and patriotism. Call me old fashioned, but during my entire military service, 20 years of it active, I never once heard any officer or enlisted man say anything political. Not one word! Now I hear about officers and especially junior enlisted men talking all kinds of political crap! Shameful! The least professional thing an AMERICAN service member can do! I would expect it in the Russian Army. The Chinese Army. Not the American Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines.
Ah. "Gun Control." That was the original subject line. My partial solution: 1. No problem with raising the legal ownership age to 21 or having it at 18. Whatever is considered adult for everything else, including drinking. 2. Go ahead and register all firearms. Why not? If nothing else, it will help in the recovery of stolen firearms and returning them to their rightful owners. After all, you have the Second Amendment, so what are you afraid of? (Generic you, not specifically you.)
"Funny" side note. Watch how fast a guy will register his firearm and submit a whole lot of paperwork plus pay extra fees when you tell him he can buy a suppressor if he does that. Same for fully automatic weapons.
3. All the rules that apply to cars. All of them. Again, why not?
4. This one I admit will get a shit-ton of boos. If a city such as San Francisco wants to ban all firearms, let them do it. You don't have to live there. You don't even have to visit there. If you do live there and you don't like it, or are afraid to not have a pistol at your side constantly, move a few miles and you will be fine. Leave those folks to their own stupidity and you will see the rest of the Democrats lighten up on you. (I now have to say in full honesty that I am NOT A DEMOCRAT! I just see where they are coming from.)
Do not. I say again, do not fear that if you let San Francisco ban guns then Dallas Texas will follow suit and then the domino effect.
So we have that bit about being a local leader. Fine and dandy, so long as the local people are willing to be led by you. If they don't like your ideas, then either go lead somewhere else or become a follower in that specific aspect of your life. If you reject that advice, then you are the next tyrant in waiting.

Response by SPC Jesse Davis made May 27 at 2018 5:07 PM

SPC Jesse Davis — Sun, 27 May 2018 17:07:09 -0400

It's going to be political because there is an ideology that that arbitrarily identified itself with values of the constitution that they only partially uphold, and even then it's in name only. That kind of fanatic tribalism is a cancer that prevents serious discussions and serious solutions.
Ironically, I say to let the Trump faithful have their way with this. Let their champion come and take away their guns like he said that he would.

Response by SSgt Robert Prest made May 27 at 2018 10:32 PM

SSgt Robert Prest — Sun, 27 May 2018 22:32:29 -0400

Own one and be ready to use it if needed.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made May 28 at 2018 12:42 PM

MAJ Hugh Blanchard — Mon, 28 May 2018 12:42:31 -0400

High school and college societies can be very cruel. I do not offer this as any sort of logical reason, but most of the shooters in these school tragedies are self-perceived social outcasts who are rejected, ridiculed and bullied. Guns are an instrument they employ to gain power and seek revenge. From my view, keeping weapons out of the hands of criminals and mentally disturbed people is an absolutely essential component of the solution to criminal violence. I learned "gun control" from the best instructors in the world, Army Drill Sergeants. Outlawing guns won't fix things - big American cities under the control of gun-banning Democrats have the worst murder rates in the nation. Veterans can play an important role, showing by their lives and actions that understanding guns is not a bad thing. And as a proud member of the NRA, I must point out that the NRA is the world's best gun safety organization that trains thousands of people annually in the safe use of firearms.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 28 at 2018 1:44 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Mon, 28 May 2018 13:44:44 -0400

A Veteran has the same roll as his or her neighbor. They follow the same rules and debate if they choose.

Response by SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter made May 28 at 2018 10:03 PM

SSgt Harvey "Skip" Porter — Mon, 28 May 2018 22:03:38 -0400

This is and will be a never ending debate and topic despite whatever side you take. I for one must say unfortunately far to many schools shootings have occurred in our country. There is no explanation to defend those despicable acts of violence. However the gun snatchers use these type of unfortunate events to push their agendas's and belief's to go after law abiding gun owner's. Like here in California with so many restrictions that have been proven don't work. For once I would like to see the law makers be proactive and not reactive. However I doubt I'll live long enough to see that happen. That's my two cents. Peace!

Response by MSgt Dale Johnson made May 29 at 2018 9:27 AM

MSgt Dale Johnson — Tue, 29 May 2018 09:27:14 -0400

I don't have statistics but it seems to me that in my youth a majority of households had gun owners and as several have stated hunting and use of firearms was very common. Rifle racks in the rear window with something in it year round. Opening day of deer season was one of the most missed days at school for a majority of my buddies and myself. Now it does not seem to be the case.

I think several things are influencing the Mis-Use of firearms, but the debate here is what can veterans so within the gun debate.

My thoughts are that since many have handled firearms, and hopefully have learned you do not have to fear an inanimate object, we can calm many fears through intelligent conservations. People need to understand that as a gun owner you DO have to ensure its use and handling are being taken care of in an appropriate manner. When you choose to own a weapon, of any kind, you have a responsibility to society in respect to the use of that weapon. Note, here that weapon could be a firearm, knife, hammer, vehicle or whatever it is that can maim or take another person's life. Of these firearms and vehicles are the most likely to cause multiple fatalities but the misuse of anything can fall under these discussions.

Response by CPL Douglas Chrysler made May 29 at 2018 12:12 PM

CPL Douglas Chrysler — Tue, 29 May 2018 12:12:55 -0400

My daughter-in-law is a PA and very anti gun. I have lots of firearms because I like them. This weekend she posted a photo of a rally poster comparing gun related deaths with the US and other countries. Some in Europe had like less than 20 while America had some 10,000. I posted a comparison of medical error deaths with the same countries. One was more than 20,000. The US was over 200,000 for one year.

Response by LTC John Wilson made May 29 at 2018 1:22 PM

LTC John Wilson — Tue, 29 May 2018 13:22:16 -0400

Only mildly germane to this issue is Federal Law under Title 10 US Code Section 246 and the Majority Opinion issued un US v Miller (1939).

10 U.S. Code § 246 - Militia: composition and classes

"(a) The militia of the United States consists of all able-bodied males at least 17 years of age and, except as provided in section 313 of title 32, under 45 years of age who are, or who have made a declaration of intention to become, citizens of the United States and of female citizens of the United States who are members of the National Guard.

(b) The classes of the militia are—

(1) the organized militia, which consists of the National Guard and the Naval Militia; and

(2) the unorganized militia, which consists of the members of the militia who are not members of the National Guard or the Naval Militia."

Take specific note of Paragraph (b)(2)... this is why Veterans don't hold a specific, special class citizenship. Ostensibly EVERY qualifying citizen of military age is a member of the militia whether they took an oath or not.

Furthermore, the Majority Opinion issued in United States v. Miller, 307 U.S. 174 (1939) defined a legitimate firearm as protected by Amendment II could or should fall under any type of firearm common in contemporary military use. To whit:

"The signification attributed to the term Militia appears from the debates in the Convention, the history and legislation of Colonies and States, and the writings of approved commentators. These show plainly enough that the Militia comprised all males physically capable of acting in concert for the common defense.... And further, that ordinarily, when called for service these men were expected to appear bearing arms SUPPLIED BY THEMSELVES and of the kind in common [military] use at the time." [Emphasis and commentary added]

Justice McReynolds stipulated in his written decision that Mr. Miller's unregistered sawed-off shotgun wasn't protected under Amendment II, because it did not serve a legitimate purpose as a MILITARY-style firearm (i.e since the shotgun did not serve "legitimate" MILITARY purpose, it was deemed a violation of the National Firearms Act of 1934.

I do mot necessary agree with SCOTUS's hair splitting in this case, but this court precedence and 10 USC Sec 246 make the private ownership of an AR-15 and a basic load of 5.56mm ammunition all but mandatory for every US Military Aged Male.

Response by SSG David McPherson made May 29 at 2018 9:05 PM

SSG David McPherson — Tue, 29 May 2018 21:05:26 -0400

Well put

Response by CWO4 Tim Hecht made May 30 at 2018 1:36 AM

CWO4 Tim Hecht — Wed, 30 May 2018 01:36:34 -0400

First of all I really cringe when I see a school shooting. My second oldest granddaughter was within a mile of attending Parkland High School.

I am retired from the service and retired from a federal law enforcement officer position.

I have my own position on gun control, gun laws, etc. but I don't see your point "Veterans, must find ways to fundamentally change the nature of, and context surrounding, the great debates of our time — including our debate over guns."

It's been said that there are over 20,000 laws in America concerning firearms in one way or another. (at all levels of government) Guess what - criminals don't obey the laws; Chicago has some of the most stringent gun laws in the nation - and some of the worst gun violence in the nation. The Parkland Shooting never should have happened. The shooter was on Law Enforcement's Radar for months - 38 or 39 calls to law enforcement about him; including the FBI. The system failed to stop him; the way the entire shooting was handled just irks me really badly.

Not a single one of my guns have gone off by themselves; nor have they been used to shoot someone or to break any laws......

You might have guessed I'm Pro-2A; the only change I think should be made is an 800 Number that I, as a private citizen, selling a gun to someone, can call and do a background check on the potential buyer. (Like at a Gun Show)

As a retiree I still feel an obligation to the Oath of Office we take; but my position on any issue is not because I'm a veteran......

Response by SPC Kirk Williams made May 31 at 2018 6:59 PM

SPC Kirk Williams — Thu, 31 May 2018 18:59:37 -0400

I believe now as I always have. Our role is to stay ready for anything at all times. Educate on safety whenever possible. Train often. Be seen as someone who can be counted on. If you work with children be wary of children with issues and be there for them. If necessary, be there for a child that has trouble that no one seems to be handling. Kids are emotional, introverted, and can be difficult to figure out. But after many years of working with kids, I can say that you can almost always see a kid in trouble. Most of the time they need someone to talk with. Sometimes they require discipline. Sometimes they require assistance with problems they shouldn't have to deal with alone. Sometime there is just a bad egg, or a bad egg at home.

Response by A1C Robert Hayden made Jun 10 at 2018 6:31 PM

A1C Robert Hayden — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 18:31:21 -0400

Affirmative. Local action for vets is a good focus point if you want to defend the 2nd amendment. Veterans are qualified by virtue of their duty performance and their weapons experience to be local advocates towards securing schools and education of young people through NRA sanctioned programs through 4H and Appleseed programs as two examples.

Response by Cpl Mark Gray made Jun 10 at 2018 7:36 PM

Cpl Mark Gray — Sun, 10 Jun 2018 19:36:06 -0400

First, the States wrote the Constitution, for the People of the United States, the constitution and the Declaration of Independence are both valid and one reinforces the other. The constitution. The Rights granted to US as citizens of the united States and spelled out in the Declaration of Independence are both unassailable by the States or any other body. In the Declaration of Independence it is said that God granted these rights and they are untouchable to all law abiding citizens.
Second. What the democrats are after is to ban all guns guaranteed to all citizens and to take away that right to bear arms and while they are at it they will try to limit our first amendment right to free speech and now the 12th Amendment, the Electoral College.
Third, Our schools can be protected and should be, but nobody who works there wants to take the responsibility for the lives of those Children. So they pass out miniture baseball bats or some other dum leftist idea.

Fifth. it is our responsibility as Citizens to fight for those rights we signed up to defend when we joined our respective services. Because nobody else is going to do that.

Response by SN Keith Jarboe made Jun 14 at 2018 9:33 AM

SN Keith Jarboe — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 09:33:54 -0400

To be honest, the article is so chock full of nonsense, so as not to use a four letter word, that I couldn't read all of it.

The idea that gun control is a safety issue has been debunked numerous times. The very fact that the most recent school shootings involved shooters who were ALREADY prohibited from owning guns proves that criminals will ignore gun control laws. That is added to the already huge MOUNTAIN of evidence that proves gun control does ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to improve safety and may actually cause more violence.

Response by SPC Ramon Urias made Jun 14 at 2018 1:52 PM

SPC Ramon Urias — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 13:52:43 -0400

We all took an oath to support and defend the constitution. If one chooses to chip away at any of the amendments in the Bill of Rights, then the others are fair game. Just as some may argue that the founding fathers never imagined semi-auto weapons with multiple round magazines, they never invisioned the internet, television and Twitter. In that aspect, freedom of speech should also be looked at. I would venture to say that words have started more arguments and fights than guns ever have. As a small example of unintended consequences happened after the Parkland shooting whereas the kids demanded action and the powers that be enabled a rule allowing only clear backpacks. Those who demanded action were appalled that their right to privacy was being trampled upon. Do we want to go down that slippery slope?
Education is a huge key in this debate. We must teach people that a gun is a tool as much as a hammer and a bat are to their prospective chores. We also need to stop the vilifying of guns. We, as veterans know all to well that a gun is an inanimate object and can only be used to do harm by an individual with a black heart and hate in their soul.

Response by SP5 Anthony Guion made Jun 16 at 2018 10:21 PM

SP5 Anthony Guion — Sat, 16 Jun 2018 22:21:58 -0400

Tough question, we've learned through history the problems with letting others either be restrictive of your gun rights, or taking your guns completely. Unfortunately, our problems are less a gun issue as they are a problem with a new generation that devalues human life and has no fear of repercussions, today or with an afterlife. To me, less "fame" given to these morons by the news media would be one step. Swift trials and maximum sentences, including capital punishment, should be done while the crime is still relatively new. No book deals, TV interviews, or discussions on how "tough" their lives were, should be allowed.
However, I don't see it happening. That stupid major (terrorist) who killed the troops at Ft. Hood is still alive and that is a prime example about how short our memories are...

Response by SPC Steve Willis, PhD made Jun 20 at 2018 4:04 PM

SPC Steve Willis, PhD — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 16:04:38 -0400

There IS no debate. There is only the propaganda spouted by leftists who want to disarm citizens to then end of enslaving them under a totalitarian government and the NRA and others like us who stand in opposition to it. Any national fracturing is caused by those attacking our fundamental rights, not those who defend them.

As military and former military members, we swore and oath to "defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic" and those folks are enemies of the Constitution, pure and simple! And we should be leading the charge at all levels of government, local to federal.

This article is total BS! There is no mention of "gun clubs" in the Constitution. It's a "can't we all play nice" and "shouldn't we all want to feel safe" subterfuge designed to get us to compromise our inherent human right to bear arms in both self-defense and opposition to tyranny. There is no compromise with tyranny, no matter how nicey-nice and reasonable it may present itself.

https://misc-ramblings.com/2018/02/25/school-shootings-and-other-massacres/
https://misc-ramblings.com/2017/06/27/never-surrender/

On School Shootings & Other Massacres

An interesting quote came up during an episode of NCIS: Los Angeles awhile back. The quote was from Mao Zedong’s Little Red Book and states, “Political power grows out of the barrel of …

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Jun 28 at 2018 11:32 AM

CAPT Hiram Patterson — Thu, 28 Jun 2018 11:32:26 -0400

It is PC that has ruined and divided this country. Parents have failed to discipline their children and teach them respect and relying on someone else to take care of them instead of taking responsibility.

Response by PO1 Mike Meehan made Jun 30 at 2018 3:02 PM

PO1 Mike Meehan — Sat, 30 Jun 2018 15:02:30 -0400

I think the very nature of the question is flawed considering that the majority of the populace doesn't identify as either Republican OR Democrat. We are a majority independent nation. The divide is between those that believe the role of government is to protect individual rights and liberties and those that believe it's role is to "control" people. Do we lean toward a 'Minority Report" type of world where government imposes restraints on people in the hope of "preventing" crime, or a more traditional model of holding those who transgress accountable for their actions? I believe our current society has learned too far in the direction of restraint and has exercised far too little accountability, particularly in the realm of official misbehavior on the part of government officials. In the end all of us, civilian, military, veterans, and government officials are all human with equal shares of all the flaws and weaknesses that brings, and that needs to be a significant basis for our conversations.

Response by CW2 Max Dolan made Jul 3 at 2018 11:15 AM

CW2 Max Dolan — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 11:15:52 -0400

My role in the "gun debate" is to carry everywhere that it is legal and to keep my concealed carry weapon actually concealed. I hope that I never have to use it against a human being. If I feel uncomfortable without my firearm in places where it is illegal to carry it, I will not go to those places.
My role is to protect and defend my family, friends and myself. I will keep calm in the face of so-called "progressive" hysteria and be ready to point out the facts that it is, and always has been, a bad person who harms others, whether it is with a gun, a knife, a rock or a club, and the object used to cause the damage is just an object, or in the case of a firearm, just a tool. The "ifs, ands and buts" can be debated endlessly, and "common-sense gun control" may attempt to incrementally erode our 2nd Amendment rights, but if we remain firm in our commitment to enforce existing criminal laws and allow responsible citizens the right to defend themselves, we can prevail.

Response by SFC Dennis Yancy made Jul 9 at 2018 10:05 AM

SFC Dennis Yancy — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 10:05:02 -0400

Firearms by themselves are not the problem. The finger controls when it fires. I have a number of firearms and non of them have ever gone off by themselves. I live in a very rural area and we have a local shooting club with alot of Vets and law enforcement. We are getting parents and kids out to shoot, women only group and shooting day, and even have Gun Show at the local college. Trying to educate and get people to talk about current issues with firearms. Course out here most Democrats are Kennedy Democrats and conceal carry as much as any other group.

Response by SFC James Tihanyi made Jul 9 at 2018 1:03 PM

SFC James Tihanyi — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 13:03:36 -0400

Get a 'Permit', stay in shape, train with your gun/guns regularly. Take your weapon with you, "DON'T Leave Home Without IT!" You never know, when a situation will arise in your presence, where the unarmed fellow citizens will be fortunate, to have YOU in their midst! God Bless!

Response by MSgt John DeLallo made Jul 11 at 2018 7:09 AM

MSgt John DeLallo — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 07:09:17 -0400

Nice thought, but you obviously are not from Western Pennsylvania. Allegheny County alone has 47 gun clubs. My club is in neighboring Washington County, also an area that you can practically walk from club to club. We have a huge Veteran community here. Many club officers are former Marines, Navy, Air Force, Army and Coast Guard. The competition we hold are done with a priority on safety. In many clubs, including mine, alcohol is forbidden on the grounds. Shooting while under the influence can get your membership pulled. The Readers Digest version is that here, in an area really loaded with Vets, we're on it. We preach safety, and above all, we preach PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY. Shooting in our network of clubs is safer than bowling.

Response by MGySgt Jerry Suarez made Jul 16 at 2018 4:17 AM

MGySgt Jerry Suarez — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 04:17:24 -0400

I believe the gun debate is an easy fix....people argue it but have no reason to back it up other than I need to protect myself. I feel that only the military and law enforcement need automatic or semi automatic weapons. There is no need for that type of weapon for the average civilian. Because anyone can have them they are harder to control. Second for the schools lock all doors with the exception of one and put metal detectors there so what people have to wait a little longer, airports, concert and sports venues do it and I'm sure there is no school with that amount of people and lastly rather than worrying about who buys a gun why dont we track how many weapons one buys? If walmart and home depot can track how many returns someone makes then I'm sure we can track how many weapons someone buys.

Response by MCPO William Richards made Jul 27 at 2018 9:54 PM

MCPO William Richards — Fri, 27 Jul 2018 21:54:34 -0400

I agree with SGM Frazer. The most we as a military is encourage and teach that life is precious and you don’t take someone’s life because they look at you or make fun of you. I learned long ago that sticks an stones may break my bones but names and bullies will never hurt me

Response by SPC Tyler Norager made Aug 2 at 2018 11:38 PM

SPC Tyler Norager — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 23:38:40 -0400

Being a vet has no bearing on the gun debate role. I know vets that fired a weapon once or twice during their entire enlistment. But I also know vets who were infantry who had no business handling a weapon the gun debate comes down to responsible, law abiding citizens veteran or not.

Response by CSM Jim Corrin made Aug 12 at 2018 10:04 AM

CSM Jim Corrin — Sun, 12 Aug 2018 10:04:45 -0400

I took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America! That includes the second amendment which protects all the rest.

Response by SPC Chris Ison made Aug 13 at 2018 12:02 PM

SPC Chris Ison — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 12:02:02 -0400

When you actually READ the second amendment it says:

A well regulated militia (This currently the National Gaurd).

Being necessary for a free state (I.e. police power in the hands of the people.)

The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.

This is NOT a decree for every citizen to have a gun, it is a provision to allow the States to keep and maintain a militia.

Article 1 section 8 of the Constitution (the enumerated powers of congress) does not give congress the right to Keep and maintain an Army. It specifically limits the funding of an army to 2 years.

Furthermore it regulates when and how the National guard can and should be used as a federal Army.

It also specifically gives congress the right to "Keep and maintain a Navy".

Then when you look at the third amendment, the fact that their are to be no knighthoods and royal orders, the Founding Fathers were pretty anti army.

They gave the people the right to bear arms because back then every able bodied male was in the militia, and they had to provide their own "kit" today we call it TA - 50.

It is an outdated policy, and that is why the Constitution is amendable.

Finland has a great policy on firearms, everyone is in the militia and everyone has their service weapon at home.

The right to bear arms is NOT absolute.

Response by SPC Mike Davis made Aug 13 at 2018 4:58 PM

SPC Mike Davis — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 16:58:33 -0400

The NRA has some of the finest gun clubs in America. I belong to one. Open to any NRA member. Go as often as one would like. The military ceded the moral high ground years ago. Therefore, any opinion the military may think they have concerning the constitutional right to private gun ownership should be immediately rejected. The military cannot define and openly accepts human perversion. While the vast majority of the world in its rejection of human perversion. Proves (in its rejection of human perversion) such an organization would be incapable of offering anything positive to a discussion on a constitutional basic human right. The right to protect oneself from evil in any and all of its forms. The military (by its acceptance and enforcement of human perversion) Is a sworn (oath) enemy of such a constitutional right. Only patriotic Americans who have sworn an oath to the constitution in its original content/meaning may defend the Second Amendment. All other have sworn an oath to whatever is politically correct today and defend such a position until new political powers govern.

Response by SFC Quinn Chastant made Aug 19 at 2018 6:58 PM

SFC Quinn Chastant — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 18:58:08 -0400

Society has changed from the 50s 60s and 70s when I was coming into age. Adults have been striped of the responsibilty and ability to discipline children. Some parents try to act more as friends to children than as teachers, instructors, and enforcers of good behavior. Since many children aren't set with bounds of proper behavior and don't learn to control impulses of behavior they react and respond in less than appropriate manner. As for firearms, those are tools, nothing more and nothing less. Automobiles are tools as well. But we don't see too many people reacting in abject fear of cars and trucks even though most vehicle operators are poorly trained and follow the rules of safe motoring so loosely there is more death from traffic violations than fire arm misuse. What we have is a problem with impulse control and you can not teach that if you do not set bounds of behavior early in life.

Response by Sgt Mike Jacobi made Aug 27 at 2018 11:15 PM

Sgt Mike Jacobi — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 23:15:35 -0400

To support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic. We all took that vow and were never released from it. The Supreme Court interprets it and the people amend it as they see fit. We are obliged to defend that system with our lives if need be.

Response by CPL Mark McLean made Aug 31 at 2018 10:31 PM

CPL Mark McLean — Fri, 31 Aug 2018 22:31:01 -0400

The debate is in fact highly polarized, but I think that the attention focussed in completely the wrong direction. It's not a gun issue whatsoever. Limiting guns or proliferating guns won't solve the issue. The true problem is violence as a whole, of which guns makes up one small piece. Our government has time after time failed on a mammoth scale to appropriate adequate funding for school safety. In 2014 federal spending for school safety amounted to roughly 7800.00 per school in the US. In 1999 the DOJ issued a comprehensive study detailing options to safeguard our schools. To this day it's been largely ignored. When the triangle shirtwaist fire happened, we developed fire codes to prevent tragedy. When awareness of difficulty experienced by the disabled face with accessibility, the ADA prompted code changes to address accessibility. Many of the safety strategies that could make a real difference could easily be codified, but we resist, for fear our property taxes might go up. Instead, we leave teachers and students with the same ridiculous response policies that have time and again failed, resulting in dead kids.
We need to stop arguing about guns, and perhaps reappropriate some foreign aid money to harden our schools infrastructure.

Response by CPL Larry Bezemer made Sep 1 at 2018 12:17 PM

CPL Larry Bezemer — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 12:17:00 -0400

No, HELL NO. What part of "not be infringed" is to complicated for "you people"? We have demo-RAT legislatures clamoring for gun control while the King-Rat pardons hundreds of multi-time gun felons. The minimum sentence for a felon in possession of a firearm is 10 years and $10,000.00 yet corrupt demo-RAT elected judges have not followed that an in most cases have reduced sentencing to less than 7 years and no fine. How can someone who has 5 or more previous gun felony arrest be 31 years old and be arrested for armed robbery? Do you want those who complain that "Americazns" are to dangerous to own guns to have their Jack-Boot on your neck?

The ONLY PART we should play is defending the constitution against Agenda Driven demo-RATS. Vote out those that allow murder and punish only those that disagree with them.

Response by CPL Larry Bezemer made Sep 1 at 2018 12:30 PM

CPL Larry Bezemer — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 12:30:20 -0400

As an infantry vet all I can say is...come and take it!

Response by PO1 Owen Windes made Sep 1 at 2018 9:52 PM

PO1 Owen Windes — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 21:52:09 -0400

There is no debate. "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." This was written with the idea that we must protect ourselves, to include against an oppressive government that would like to take our arms away. It was written with the exact knowledge that the British was being oppressive and that the Nation should have the right to protect themselves from an oppressive government and be equally armed against them. The purpose wasn't to hold the government at gun-point, but to ensure that they were by the people and for the people. The gun debate is actually a ply to disarm the country's citizens in an effort so that they are no longer able to hold it accountable.

The fact remains that responsibly armed citizens are not the problem. Any, and all attempts to disarm or regulate the arms that the law abiding citizens have is absolutely against our rights. The problem is with the un-law abiding citizens, of which will continue to be armed when the government takes our rights away for the better good.

If you want a solution to the problem, ensure our rights are unfettered and those that wish us harm will do so knowing that we may be able to protect ourselves. At a base level, people that do harm to others, do so knowing that it is safe to do so. Case in point...any state that heavily restricts gun ownership have the highest crime rates. If I were a criminal, I would target something that has very little risk. Honestly this is simple logic.

As I said, there is no gun debate...Only the option of our government to reduce our ability to hold them accountable, and for them to make us more vulnerable.

Response by SPC Bobby Whelchel made Sep 2 at 2018 7:35 PM

SPC Bobby Whelchel — Sun, 02 Sep 2018 19:35:10 -0400

First of all, not one single Right in the Bill of Rights is subject to change. I put my life on the line in war to defend this Constitution, not our government, and i would do so again. Secondly, look at Chicago and Britain, both are supposedly gun free and yet, Chicago leads the way world wide in murder, as well as Britain having the same type problem without the guns. They use knives, trucks and other things. An armed populace is the strongest deterrent against crimes of all types. Prior service members should be posted in all schools of this nation with the proper tools to take down every active shooter. Once it becomes the norm, school shootings will be a thing of the past. I submit that safety is not the concern of those pushing for gun control, they simply want absolute control. Disarmed we the people will become slaves. Simple as that.

Response by SSG Glenn Morse made Sep 10 at 2018 12:48 AM

SSG Glenn Morse — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 00:48:00 -0400

If anyone would look at actual numbers real stats not made up. And look at all past years. There is not anymore of a gun problem then we have ever had. The media can make one incident look huge and seem like a few over years is a lot in a short time take the time to look at the actual numbers and stats not what you hear on TV or from your paid for politicians. More people died , are injured etc because of Alcohol ( driving accidents, alcohol fueled violence , and disease ) open your eyes and your mind.

Response by CW3 Dan Mackey made Sep 16 at 2018 1:23 PM

CW3 Dan Mackey — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 13:23:27 -0400

Politicizing guns based on school shootings is offensive to me.
We have a massive number of veterans that could be employed to help make schools secure. Veterans have been trained in how when and where deadly force is called for. We have the discipline and training to help ensure the safety of a school assigned to our care.

Instead of helping find solutions for school safety our elected leaders have jumped on these attacks to push forward their agendas.

Maybe it is time for a veteran owned business to step forward with a cost effective school security/safety company to offer cost effective school safety programs.

I think the right group of veterans could form a company for school security and get funding from this president.

Response by SGT Chris Wagoner made Sep 16 at 2018 8:54 PM

SGT Chris Wagoner — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 20:54:10 -0400

Having been a police officer for 35 years, and carrying a gun daily for my entire adult life, I can tell you it's not the gun, it's the person behind the gun. Violence is part of human nature for some, and for some, they are able to control and channel it when needed. The talk of guns, gun violence, gun control are all misdirected attempts to address the way we, as Americans, look at violence and either accept or allow it to permeate our culture. Games, movies, books and all sorts of media glorify violence. We make even good guys those that go around dealing out "justice" with a gun or knife.

We as American's need to take a solid look at ourselves and what we allow our kids to see, play and watch, and along with that the lessons, we teach them about those very things. Until we are willing to look at how we glorify violence in America, we will continue to have the misdirected debate about firearms. Firearms are nothing more than tools, used for good or bad depends on the person using it. Just like a kinfe, baseball bat or other blunt object wielded in violence against another (which BTW happens more than guns :) ) Yet we don't have a knife, baseball bat and blunt object debate. We need to have the why are our young people becoming so violent so easily? Then we can start to address the real issues, the societal issues.

But just to be clear, violent crime overall is down, and has been declining over the last 20+ years. But we can continue to try and make it even less.

Response by 1SG Michael Farrell made Sep 24 at 2018 8:37 PM

1SG Michael Farrell — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 20:37:13 -0400

I think that Vets have the same right to be involved in this that any citizen does. I would resist the temptation to weigh in using your status as a justification for your opinion. We lived in a relatively weapons free environment unless we were off post or in quarters or senior enough to keep weapons in BEQ/BOQ. Fact is that wandering around strapped was always kind of a frowned on aspect of things. Kind of like carrying a blade more than 3" ir 4" long. Just not done. Yes, there were examples of people who might have been stopped from harming soldiers if some had been carrying...might is the operative word. So, if you had a gun on a military installation legally, it was registered and you were registered. That's what we know, and that's what worked reasonably well for us all. Not sure about relevance.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Sep 28 at 2018 10:56 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 22:56:49 -0400

This is a difficult subject for veterans to discuss amongst ourselves or with non veterans. I like many veterans believe that Americans should be able to defend ourselves as well as other (non Americans). Our politicans who believe thatno covilian or off duty military personnel should own weapons. The military doesn't eat, sleep or have sex with their weapons right next to them. We have to wait for the military police to show up for some whacko shooting into a crowd, school or event on base (ie, Fort Hood, Washing Ship yard, etc.) Police can't be everywhere 24/7/365. Yet there are those anti gun people who expect us as well as civilians, to wait for the police to show up. I say hell no. I will defend not only my family or friends, but anyone who is need. Politicans have hired armed boby guards. Why? Are they any more important than anyone else? No. This subject will go on being debated forever, but in the end, people shoot people, people will want gun bans and people will die in shootings. Give US citizens the right to defend themselves, their families, friends and those who can't defend themselves.

Response by CPT Bobby Fields made Oct 10 at 2018 4:07 PM

CPT Bobby Fields — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 16:07:20 -0400

To expand on the point that others such as 1SG Michael Farrell brought up, we should be careful not to present ourselves as experts if we aren't (whether the topic is guns/gun control or anything else), act as if our opinions carry more weight, or to speak as if we represent the entire veteran community.

I do think there are some areas where we can lend some additional knowledge to the dialogue, such as educating new or non-gun owners on the benefits of safety and training and accepting responsibility for our actions.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2018 7:12 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 19:12:07 -0400

I agree with those who have said, "the same as any other citizen," but I recognize one helpful ability: informing people who don't know much about firearms on basic technical characteristics such as what the difference between fully-automatic and semi-automatic are, or what a magazine is and so forth. The media and the politicians are completely clueless, so many Americans believe scary rumors spread by media because they don't know anything different. Then, it's up to each citizen to make up their mind.

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2018 2:10 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 14:10:36 -0400

It's a constitutional issue & an abjectly political one.

The issues presented by the pro-gun-control side are not actually in any-sense effective in reducing violence or saving lives. They have no impact on mass-shootings or crime (eg, no-one has actually engaged in a mass shooting with a gun they bought without a background check at a 'gun show' (nor are 'gun show' sales a significant source of gun crime), but we keep hearing about a supposed 'gun-show loophole'), but they do cause problems for a group of people who reliably vote Republican (gun enthusiasts)- whereas gun-control supporters reliably vote Democrat.

That's all it is, and all it ever will be...

Response by PO2 Edward DeVennsh made Oct 30 at 2018 8:34 AM

PO2 Edward DeVennsh — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 08:34:13 -0400

As a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a retired police officer, I have sworn oaths that begin with me affirming that I will support the Constitution of the United States at least six times. While discharge and retirement have officially released me from the obligations those various oaths imposed, I do not and will not consider myself released from that initial obligation. Therefore, I believe I have a moral obligation to support the right of any citizen to bear arms unless that citizen has committed an act that justifies rescinding his right nor has been appropriately adjudicated to be mentally incompetent to exercise that right.

Response by MSgt Don Dobbs made Nov 11 at 2018 5:06 PM

MSgt Don Dobbs — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 17:06:15 -0500

Several things come to mind concerning guns. Guns are not our problem and never have been. People are the problem. Lack of respect, lack of self discipline, and lack of values. Additional laws will not stop the criminal element, over protective laws actually help the criminal element. I mean "Temporary insanity. Abused as a child, sexually assaulted". True these are real things but they are not a defense to protect a criminal. If one is being assaulted sexually or otherwise then that individual using force to stop that action is a defense, but, killing innocent bystanders it is not. Veterans and guns is not an issue, mentally unstable veterans is. PTSD, and other issues come to play with certain veterans owning guns, but to classify all veterans is totally wrong. My Father and several of my Uncles fought in WWII and Korea they all owned and used guns for sporting purposes. They taught their children proper use and respect for weapons. I have also taught my own children as they have theirs. The cure is to put respect for authority, fear of the law, and strong punishment for lawbreakers back into the system. Stop this current "Slap on the wrist system of enforcement and get back to punishing the bad guy".

Response by SPC Kenneth Berry made Nov 11 at 2018 8:00 PM

SPC Kenneth Berry — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 20:00:20 -0500

I teach my family and anyone else that ask about the safety and little knowledge I have about guns. I take my family out shooting. They enjoy it and every time a shooting happens they wonder how someone could do that. But I do have to say that the way T.V. and video games has glamorize killing plays apart in the shootings.

Response by SGT Mike Moschkin made Nov 19 at 2018 9:33 PM

SGT Mike Moschkin — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 21:33:34 -0500

As veterans we all took tests prior to entering the military to see if we met the IQ requirement to serve. When in training with weapons there were plenty of NCOs to make sure we learned about taking care of the weapon. Whenever live AMMO was involved there were plenty more NCOs to over see safety. The only time live AMMO was issued to everyone was at time of war. In the old west as the towns grew larger open carry was forbidden to protect the citizens and when you came into town you had to check your gun in. All this was done for the safety purposes. You were allowed and still allowed to have weapons at home properly secured again for safety purposes. I don't believe automatic weapons should be sold unless you are collector and have them plugged properly. It seems like in recent years safety has been ignored, In order to obtain a drivers license we have to pass a written test and a driving skills test. Selling fire arms is a very big business thus big money got involved (lobbying) so the issue of safety is over looked. We don't need a twenty or more round magazines you only one or two rounds to bring down game. I used to belong to the NRA I stopped but I still will have a weapon which fires one round at a time. How many rounds I keep is up to me ! I have no love of lobbyists to me they are all dirty money ! The big issue is in the enforcement of any law in the old west the sheriff did the job !

Response by MSgt David Haupt made Nov 23 at 2018 10:14 AM

MSgt David Haupt — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:14:12 -0500

I have said this over and over. It is not a gun issue but a mental health issue and parenting issue. What makes a kid or adult go off the deep end that they are willing to go and kill other humans just because they felt someone or society wronged them. Either an x broke up with them or a certain color, religion, race or culture is different. A gun is a tool they use to get revenge. Just like in the military we use the tools we are issued to kill the enemy. The biggest part is no one is saying anything when these individuals say they are going to do it, see it on social media or see suspicious activity. Nicholas Cruz reported but was not taken seriously, kick out of three schools, reported to police, and was seen by a mental health professional. Dylan Roof had his gun taken away by his friend only to get it back after a month and told his friend what he was going to do and Nicholas made videos of what he was going to do and told others he intentions to become a professional "killer." These anti-semitic said they were going to do it on social media. If they reported they would have had a criminal activity they would have not been able to purchase guns. Then there are the guns on the streets. No politician wants to address the violence on the streets. If you were to look at the statistics put out (motherjohns.com) is a great source of mass shootings that happen every day most are criminally or gang-related killings. Why is it that the states with the strictest guns laws have more killings than those that don't.

Response by SSG Gregg Mourizen made Nov 23 at 2018 2:42 PM

SSG Gregg Mourizen — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 14:42:48 -0500

The Veterans Role?
I swore to defend the people and the Constitution of the United States.
The Second Amendment guarantees that the right to bear arms shall not be infringed. There was no restriction as to the types of arms. For example, I do not see a restriction against have a cannon, rockets or explosives (not that I have either), swords, knives, axes or so on. The items I listed did exist at the time. I fear what an explosion can do far more than an AR 15. Another inalienable right is also under attack, the First Amendment, the right to Free Speech. If you find a way to take out one, you put any of the others at risk. Little by little, these rights are being gnawed away at. Taking away from these rights are a threat to all Americans.

Veterans have all taken the same oath. So what is the Veterans role? Defend the constitution, defend a persons ability to protect their family and community.

Response by SGT Ronald Audas made Nov 26 at 2018 10:47 AM

SGT Ronald Audas — Mon, 26 Nov 2018 10:47:20 -0500

With an estimated 60 million guns and 2.5 billion rounds of ammunition in private hands in America,l suggest we have no gun problem in the USA.Our issue must be with individuals.

Response by PO3 Myali Remorra made Nov 28 at 2018 12:12 PM

PO3 Myali Remorra — Wed, 28 Nov 2018 12:12:15 -0500

I see a lot of comments about how it's a problem with the children or parenting. Then it's the old argument that our 2nd amendment was written so that we the people would have the means to stanf up for ourselves against tyrannical government. Not that this is wrong but it doesn't address our societal issues.

We live in a nation that still wants segregation, that still is recentful of the civil rights movements and affirmative action and we still have deep seething racism embedded in our institutions.
We are falling behind on education and we are now believers in alternative facts amd conspiracy theories and we lash out at academia and the sciences.

Basically we're becoming a nations of morons with guns thinking we're the smart ones.

What we need is better education so we can make better desicions and we don't get manipulated by crooked politicians.

And PS... The NRA doesn't give a rats ass about the 2nd amendment, what it cares about is profits and the 2nd amendment guarantees it. Don't miss the forest for the trees.

Response by CWO3 Mark Davies made Dec 7 at 2018 12:35 PM

CWO3 Mark Davies — Fri, 07 Dec 2018 12:35:50 -0500

We took an oath to defend our country from all enemies foreign and domestic. The 2nd Amendment was put there to prevent a government from becoming too big and tyrannical. It our God given right under the 2nd Amendment to possess and carry firearms unless we have lost those rights through the commission of a crime that takes those rights away. These states that try to control magazine sizes and weapon types ARE in violation of our constitution and need to be stopped. This country has a Mental Health and Felon issue, not a gun issue.

Response by PO1 Don Rowan made Dec 8 at 2018 12:58 PM

PO1 Don Rowan — Sat, 08 Dec 2018 12:58:16 -0500

Sorry, but no sale. There is a subversive effort by the left, including RINOs, to disarm this country to force us into the NWO garbage as has been done in ALL socialist countries and we the citizenry knows it's intent is absolute control which we DO NOT want. If you look at the shooting stats they definitely show the mass shootings have been done by Democrats, period. If you also look at world stats the U.S. is about 6th from the top of the list in murders. If you remove four lib Meccas like Oakland, Chicago, and Baltimore, the U.S. drops to fourth from the bottom. All disarming would do is disarm honest citizens and the criminals with all the illegal guns would run even more rampant like the socialist tool they are.

Response by CPL Sarah Verity made Dec 24 at 2018 2:57 PM

CPL Sarah Verity — Mon, 24 Dec 2018 14:57:38 -0500

I've never owned a firearm. The one I had in the army belonged to the government. I'm not saying it wouldn't help. I'm just convinced that gun ownership isn't for people like me because I'm one of those veterans that sleepwalks around the house looking for "my rifle". So I figure I'm out of this debate.

Response by Sgt Ed Allen made Dec 30 at 2018 8:02 PM

Sgt Ed Allen — Sun, 30 Dec 2018 20:02:04 -0500

The way I see it is, regardless of your feelings about firearms, the ownership and possession of them is a part of the U. S. Constitution which I swore to uphold and protect.

When I received my separation papers from the Marine Corps, I was not told that my oath had ended. Oaths do not have an expiration date attached to them.

For 30 years, I did not handle or own any firearms. However, as time progressed, I found it prudent to do so. Living in the San Bernardino area of California, the city and state governments failed the residents by reducing the size of the police force (I found out recently that the city had cut the police force by 60% and only had 14 officers to patrol a city of 200,000!). The state has routinely released felons who have been involved in crimes with firearms. Case in point - In 2013, a "gentleman" was arrested after grand theft auto resulting in a high speed pursuit. He had used a hand gun to steal the car. He was then released from prison in 2014 after only 10 months. Within a month, he was arrested in my back yard after.... you guessed it. Grand theft auto involving a firearm which resulted in a high speed pursuit (Southbound in the Northbound lanes of an interstate).

The state of California pleads these people down to the lowest crime due to "overcrowding".

When the government fails and then becomes a despot punishing the innocent with onerous laws, the debate ends. There is no doubt that California has a socialist government. This is why the state government is so interested in removing firearms from it's honest residents. Note, you are a resident of a state and a citizen of the United States of America.

As a veteran, you have a choice. Still support the Constitution that you swore allegiance to, or turn your back on your oath.

For me there is no choice.

Response by Sgt Frank Staples made Dec 30 at 2018 10:39 PM

Sgt Frank Staples — Sun, 30 Dec 2018 22:39:14 -0500

While some liberals will loudly tell you that they own firearms I do firmly believe that the battle is one of left vs. right. And when I hear some dude or dudette honking about how many people are killed by firearms I always try to make it a point to tell them that alcohol and tobacco kill far more people and they don't even serve a useful purpose. Where is their anger about those products? Where is their anger over abortion which kills thousands of the most defenseless each year? And they have the nerve to holler about abortion being their "right"! My firearm protects me and my family from the animals with no legs, two legs, or four legs. Firearms save lives every day in our great country and I refuse to give mine up to satisfy the firearms illiterate who, when faced with a thug, will hide in their closet and pee themselves while waiting for what? Oh yes, a man with a GUN!

Response by GySgt Duane DaVein made Jan 20 at 2019 6:22 AM

GySgt Duane DaVein — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 06:22:03 -0500

Veterans have the same role as any other citizens. They can either express their opinions or not express them.

Firearms do not kill people, it's the people pulling the triggers that do. However, liberals have this penchant for blaming society for all the ills in the world. Like, "It's not the shooters fault, it's the guns fault. If we ban guns then those poor misguided killers who were bullied in school will not have the means to go on a deadly rampage."

If we were to ban firearms and somehow be able to confiscate everyone of them owned by civilians what then? In China, they have fellows attacking little children at school with knives. Everyone in the US Military is aware of what those poor, misguided hajis can do with explosives...

The reality is that unless we can change the hearts and minds of our species we will have to live with the aftermath of tragedies and admit to ourselves that our power to prevent them is limited.

Response by 1SG Frank Calamia made Jan 30 at 2019 11:37 AM

1SG Frank Calamia — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 11:37:08 -0500

First, remember your oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. That includes the 2nd Amendment. You should never carry out an order that abrogates a citizens 2nd Amendment Rights. We all know that unlawful orders are to be disobeyed. Second, criminals do not honor our laws. Passing more gun control laws will have no impact on a criminal's decision to use firearms in the commission of a crime. So, why are Democrats hell bent on gun control? Ban the Assault weapons is their cry! The Democrat Party is a party of not simply Social Democrats, but Communist too. The Party of JFK is dead. Like the National Socialist Party, the Ottomans, Venezuela, and other Socialist Governments, disarming the civil population is paramount to their success in Power over the people. In conclusion, the Democrats want to disarm the law abiding citizens because we are the group of citizens who will take up arms to defend the Constitution. See the gun control debate for what it is.....

Response by HN Kathleen M Peck made Jan 31 at 2019 11:31 AM

HN Kathleen M Peck — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:31:15 -0500

Thank you for this narrative on guns. It makes perfect sense to me! We need to come together as a nation and work out our differences on this matter. Who better than veterans to lead on this issue, the very people who fought and served our county. Thank you again.

Response by SPC Mike Davis made Feb 28 at 2019 3:38 PM

SPC Mike Davis — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 15:38:23 -0500

I enjoyed reading all of the comments concerning so-called gun issues in present day American society. Owning a gun is like owning a car, boat, airplane. It is a matter of opinion. I own several guns. Mostly revolvers and long guns (all big bore.) I do not hunt except at WalMart or IGA. The NRA has several ranges and training facilities (I belong to one.) So training in firearms is available to anyone who should want it. I enjoy marksmanship and blowing up milk jugs and water cans old computer monitors and just plain having fun at the range. Especially when I can get an ex marine to try my 45-70 with +P loads and he hands it back and says never again. This would be the type of gun owners group I belong to. Some are hunters. Others are casual owners. Some are big on Colt and or Ruger. Many think a semi-auto is all there is in handguns. All the foregoing to put gun ownership in some short of perspective. We are all different but united in one matter. The 2nd amendment is absolute. We (American citizens) have a constitutional right to own and carry a firearm. The loss of a child is an unbearable tragedy especially at a school or any other youth function. Especially if by a firearm. I am of the school who are convinced conceal carry could and would prevent such tragedies. I am licensed to carry and do. Remember I am a big bore type. I carry a snub nose 44 special with five rounds of 200 gr +p wadcutter ammo. This round will stop a black bear in its tracks. The bad guy is finished with the first round even if he is hit in the arm. If teachers and or custodians were so armed and trained bad guy done and all kids go home that day. (A reminder the Supreme Court has ruled a policeman does not have a constitutional duty to protect a citizen. Don't believe me look it up!) An armed citizen regardless of his occupation is a citizen. An unarmed person is a slave, not a citizen, to those who have the force to control them. Gun ownership is not rocket science nor is open for debate. History is very clear on this matter. Thus, it must be defended at all costs. As with all firearms. Safety is first and foremost. When I teach youth about firearms the first thing they learn is..."There is no such thing as an unloaded gun." A gun is either cleared or loaded. It must always be pointed down range and no finger on the trigger until target is sighted and of no danger to anything else. I do believe all firearms owners should be required to take a firearms handling course. But, that would be the only restricting requirement to gun ownership which I could support. A veterans duty to firearms ownership is the same as any other citizen. Never, no never, ever, give up your right to firearms ownership!!!!

Response by SFC James Asbill made May 2 at 2019 10:38 PM

SFC James Asbill — Thu, 02 May 2019 22:38:24 -0400

I really don't see much room for working in the framework as the gun banning and control side refuse to engage in meaningful dialog .... with anything but false facts and accusations ...

Response by SGT Steve McFarland made Oct 31 at 2019 8:53 PM

SGT Steve McFarland — Thu, 31 Oct 2019 20:53:41 -0400

We should be in a better position to help educate the public, particularly if we have kept our skills up.

Response by A1C Kenneth White made May 19 at 2020 6:26 AM

A1C Kenneth White — Tue, 19 May 2020 06:26:48 -0400

There's a reason we are called veterans, it's because our oath to the constitution never expired, otherwise we would be ,,,,, civilians...

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Feb 26 at 2021 9:16 AM

SFC Melvin Brandenburg — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 09:16:10 -0500

I think the veteran's role is to perform regular PMI