Last month in my local newspaper, The Daily Sun, there was a letter to the editor that I think presented the case for and perspective of CCW permit holders very well.  The comments are equally interesting to read.  If more advocates of the second amendment would make public statements like this, the true feelings of the people would be heard and understood by our politicians.

Gun permit-holders aren’t the problem

Sunday, October 18, 2009

To the editor:

In Friday’s edition of the paper, [there was] a letter admonishing those choosing to lawfully carry firearms. First, I respect and thank him for expressing his views. However, I disagree with them.

If he doesn’t trust someone to lawfully carry that firearm, he certainly has that right. However, implying they’re pretending to be police, etc., is false and illogical. Assuming local police will be there to protect you at all times is a dangerous assumption. FPD has excellent officers doing a tough job, but they simply can’t be everywhere at all times.

I exercise my right to carry a firearm. Like most others, I am no Rambo, or “wannabe.” However, as a former police officer, I recognize that personal safety is my responsibility. It isn’t something taken lightly. This is why I have met all state-mandated requirements to obtain my permit and routinely practice to ensure proficiency.

As one that wore a badge for nearly a decade, I never had one negative encounter with a permit-holder lawfully carrying a firearm. The person that takes the time and energy to complete training, DPS background investigations and fingerprinting statistically isn’t one to worry about. Both FBI and DOJ stats reinforce that.

I respect anyone’s choice to exercise their right to not lawfully carry firearms, but remind them respect should go both ways. You don’t have to agree with someone’s choice to respect it. Just because someone doesn’t agree with your view, doesn’t give cause to demonize them.

TIM CARTER

Bellemont

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