Ex-Mormons: Possible Threat?

Every time I read the Book of Mormon I am struck by how often ex-Nephites, or you could say, ex-members of the Church, went against the Church.
My biggest example would have to be Zarahemnah.
Zarahemnah was a Lamanite Chief Captain.(Alma 43:5, 44) He was a Nephite who had left the church and joined the Lamanites. They were more wicked than the Lamanites (Alma 43:6-8) and caused more problems for the church. He pushed the Lamanites to fight against the Nephites. He was beaten by Moroni (Alma 44). Amalichiah was also an ex-member of the Church and the reason for Moroni’s Title of Liberty, the following is a story of an ex-member of the church and his problem with Joseph Smith:

“As they approached their destination, Mr. Law came staggering out of the house shouting out what he intended to do. The Prophet said kindly and unafraid, “You sent for me, Mr. Law?” To which Mr. Law replied with an oath that now he was going to do the whole world a favor by disposing of the Prophet with one shot. Calmly, the Prophet unbuttoned his shirt and bared his chest, and then said, “I’m ready now, Mr. Law.” Charles said at this point he nearly fainted. Sick fear strangled him until he was speechless and paralyzed, unable to move a muscle. Mr. Law paced a few steps, turned, aimed, and pressed the trigger. There was complete silence. Then the air rang with profanity and Mr. Law turned on Charles, accusing him of fixing the gun so it would not go off and threatened to kill even Charles——my innocent, frightened, but faithful son. The Prophet, to divert Mr. Law’s blame of Charles, suggested that a can be placed on a fence post for Mr. Law to take a practice shot. Relieved, Charles ran for a can and laid it on its side on a post. Mr. Law paced back, took aim, and fired. His one shot streaked through the exact center of the can. Even Mr. Law was quiet as if stunned. The Prophet buttoned up his shirt, gave Charles a meaningful look, and then said, “If you are finished with me now, Mr. Law, I have other things needing to be done.” (As quoted by Robert H. Daines at BYU-Idaho Devotional, 28 May 2002)

The next portion of this article is from a church manual.

“Many members of the Church apostatized during this dark period of economic distress. Eliza R. Snow observed that, following the temple dedication in 1836, a number of members of the Church felt that “prosperity was dawning upon them …… , and many who had been humble and faithful …… were getting haughty in their spirits, and lifted up in the pride of their hearts. As the Saints drank in the love and spirit of the world, the Spirit of the Lord withdrew from their hearts, and they were filled with pride and hatred toward those who maintained their integrity.
“Wilford Woodruff also remembered that the members were warned by their leaders that unless they humbled themselves and repented of their pride, a scourge awaited them as in the days of the ancient Nephites. The Kirtland paper, the Messenger and Advocate, reported that some unscrupulous brethren were taking advantage of newcomers to the community by describing unusual investment opportunities to them, taking their money, and then deserting them.
“Backbiting against Joseph Smith was common during the spring and summer of 1837 in Kirtland, particularly when he was away on business or on missions. Some men who held positions of trust in the Church rejected his leadership and declared that he was no longer a true prophet. When Elder Parley P. Pratt returned from a Canadian mission the apostasy was well under way. He was temporarily caught up in these difficulties and left a candid account of his involvement.
“There were also envyings, lyings, strifes and divisions, which caused much trouble and sorrow. By such spirits I was also accused, misrepresented and abused. And at one time, I also was overcome by the same spirit in a great measure, and it seemed as if the very powers of darkness which war against the Saints were let loose upon me. But the Lord knew my faith, my zeal, my integrity of purpose, and he gave me the victory.
“I went to brother Joseph Smith in tears, and, with a broken heart and contrite spirit, confessed wherein I had erred in spirit, murmured, or done or said amiss. He frankly forgave me, prayed for me and blessed me. Thus, by experience, I learned more fully to discern and to contrast the two spirits, and to resist the one and cleave to the other.”
On several occasions stalwarts such as Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball defended the Prophet in various meetings, even though they were endangered. In February 1837 several elders called a meeting in the temple for all those who considered Joseph Smith to be a fallen prophet. They intended to appoint David Whitmer as the new Church leader. Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and other faithful members attended the meeting. After listening to the arguments against the Prophet, Brigham arose and testified, “Joseph was a Prophet, and I knew it, and that they might rail and slander him as much as they pleased; they could not destroy the appointment of the Prophet of God, they could only destroy their own authority, cut the thread that bound them to the Prophet and to God, and sink themselves to hell.” In the Kirtland Temple on 19 February the Prophet spoke for several hours with the power of God. The complainers were silenced and the Saints were strengthened in their support of the Lord’’s chosen servant.”
From: “Church History in the Fulness of Times Student Manual” Chapter 14: The Apostasy in Kirtland, 1836-38 Pgs. 169-180 (2003)
It is obvious to me that the biggest threat to the security and good name of the Church is its ex-members.

I do not doubt that some ex-members were harmed by other members or leaders. There are many stories out there and they seem to get larger with every retelling. The members and leaders in the Church are just as human as any of us. Mistakes have been made but every time I hear someone, some where say, “I had this Bishop one time...” I roll my eyes. Not because there could not possibly be Bishops that I would not agree with, I know that there are. I was a Bishop for a while and I know what Bishops are up against. What amazes me is these stories are almost always very one sided. All the people telling the stories are perfectly innocent. I was a Bishop long enough to know that these story tellers are far from innocent. But their sins and mistakes never seem to be included in the story. Like I said, it’s hard to think that no one has been wronged by the church. But please, don’t tell only one side of a story without including your stupid, boneheaded choices.

What does all of this have to do with security you might ask? The security of the Church and its members are at risk usually from ex-members.

I know I will probably be ragged on for mentioning names but the Kate Kelly’s and the Sam Young’s of the church are the greatest threat to the church.

Kate Kelly said that women should stay in the church and “raise hell”.


“Kelly, who was excommunicated from the church last year (2014) after advocating for the inclusion of women in the all-male LDS priesthood, said that Mormons should stay in the faith if it brings them joy, and leave if it doesn't.
"If you stay, you should raise hell," she said. "I think you have a moral imperative to make it a better place for children and especially for girls."
The Salt Lake Tribune, August 12, 2015

Sam Young is another.

Young’s approach often strikes an incendiary tone. Most recently a post on his personal blog referred to his local church leader in Houston as a “zombie” and called the First Presidency “cowards.”
“What did Jesus Christ do? He didn’t mince words when talking about the leaders,” Young said.

The following is from a blog so I’m not sure you call this a direct quote. I could not find any other direct quote so take it as it is. He is talking about Sam Young aligning himself with Mike Norton.

“This brings us back to the present. What is he doing now? He started a hunger strike and is posting Facebook live videos at a rapid pace. He has set up a camp chair on the sidewalk of South Temple and is issuing open invitations to apostles to come subject themselves to an ambush, consisting of whatever vile words or violent actions Young’s crowd may subject them to. One of Young’s supporters, Mike Norton, has recently offered to pay a cash reward to anyone who could give him details of Pres. Oaks physical whereabouts during a Mormon Stories podcast so that Mr. Norton could physically assault Pres. Oaks. Again, I wish I was making this up.”
31 August 2018, The Millennial Star blog post.

These people are a security risk to the church. Not all people leave the church and then can’t leave the church alone, but you must keep an eye on those that do not stop fighting against what they profess to be false.

From Zarahemnah to Sam Young the Church of Jesus Christ has been under fire.

I don’t always like Church policy but I have tried my best to not let my opinions effect my sustaining of leaders. I don’t want to get a call from my leader, of which I am now his counselor, and be asked to stop my blog because it is damaging my testimony and threatening the Church.

So let me say right here: I support and sustain our living prophet Russell M. Nelson and his counselors. I sustain my local leaders also. I would not give up my membership in this church to a “mess of pottage”, as it were. To any cause I thought was just. Many of the above members lost their membership to a cause. Traded their eternal life for something they believed is basically, an earthly cause. I guess they believe in their cause but they have some ambiguity with leadership and doctrine of the Lord’s Church.

I saw different statements by the two above modern day zealots that their membership was important to them. It’s too bad they have traded what they said they held so close for something they think the Lord doesn’t understand. That’s what they are saying to me. That people know better than the Lord.

Be careful of those apostates that leave the Church. They can be the Church’s biggest threat.

My Dad used to say, “If they are shooting at you, you must be doing something right.”

Perhaps he was right.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Merry Christmas!

We at LDS Gunsite want all of you out there to have a very Merry Christmas! And a wonderful New Year. For those of other faiths, we hope your holidays are glorious!
Please stay safe and secure and keep you loved ones close and safe.
Train hard, love hard, and be there for your family!

We love you all!

Burn, FLAG, and family

Knowing What Gunfire Sounds Like

This is a good article. Read it here: http://www.activeresponsetraining.net/recognizing-the-sound-of-gunfire
It is by Greg Ellifritz

Folks I do apologize. My article that is no longer posted here, was written 2 years ago and I did take it from Greg meaning to give credit for his work. I neglected to give him credit and was asked to take it down at the time and did so. Obviously it was not eliminated from my files and was reposted. I apologize again for stealing from Greg. At the time it was not my intent, but I do agree, that is what it is.

Sorry Greg and to anyone else who may have been offended by it.

I have tried from that time on to ask the original author before using their material. My assistant posted this and I have now put in place safeguards for this to never happen again. I take full responsibility.



Burn

Children And Guns

Children and Teens with guns. This can be a horrible combination. I say CAN be. It usually is not just as most adult gun owners don’t become serial killers or mass murderers. Lately I’ve had several conversations about kids and guns. Some have asked at what age they should expose their kids to shooting and safety, and others want to know how to keep their kids safe from gun violence. We are not in the aftermath of a recent mass shooting committed by a young person. There have been some terrible mass shootings by adults. And that is horrible and sad. Some say it is the times we live in and others think it’s the guns fault. I know this for a fact, killing another human being is not easy or normal. Those who do it with a plan have mental problems. They did not see too many violent movies (although that does not help). They gave into hate and evil. But I digress.
Kids and guns can also be a very good combination. When someone asks me I usually tell them what I did with my big bunch of kids. When they were 8 (boys and girls) I would teach them to shoot. If you live in my house you hear about gun safety all the time. It was taught to my children young but they started to handle guns at 8. Mostly .22 rifles and a few pistols. While at the range they would ask occasionally to shoot something more powerful but usually did not like a heavy recoil. As they got older I encouraged them to shoot more powerful handguns and rifles. They all shot what I suggested but usually gravitated toward what they liked. They memorized the safety rules and I quizzed them often. My recently married daughter was being shown some guns and finally burst because her new husband and in-laws were breaking a couple of the rules. They balked at her knowledge a little and so she quoted all four rules to them and said “My Dad would freak if he saw you guys being so unsafe with guns!” She is correct. I would take their guns from them and make them repeat the rules more than once back to me before they point another “safe” weapon at me!
I’ve read the articles from the “experts” who say kids can’t handle guns. They are very wrong. I’m not saying I would give an 8 year old a .22 handgun and say “Keep this in your drawer.” I lock up my guns for several reasons. My kids were taught safety and the mystique of guns was eliminated. Whenever they wanted to see a gun or handle one, they were allowed under my supervision, reminding them of the safety rules. My guns are locked up from adults or kids that don’t live with me. I have been a gun instructor for over 20 years and I fear adults much more than I fear kids. In my experience kids listen and follow well taught rules, but adults have “knowledge” or “experience” with guns. I have removed an Air Force pilot, a Captain, from a shooting range and barred him from return because he knew about guns and had been in one competition. He blatantly would not keep his finger off the trigger and out of the guard. When he started to cover almost everyone on the range I told him he could return to that range and qualify after his commander had counselled with him. I told him when he returned I was the only instructor that could qualify him. Two weeks later I received a letter of apology from him, a call from his squadron commander, and his promise to follow all instructions given him to re-qualify. I’m not a tough guy, but I insist on gun safety.
Kids are usually quite teachable when it comes to gun safety and shooting. They are eager to do it right and to do it well. They like the satisfaction of seeing the results of their work right away in the form of a paper target or the ping of a steel one. They like the competition and the thought of mastering a skill. Adults care too much about they look, or are perceived, to be the most teachable. That’s a generalization of course.
I started shooting at a young age with my Grandfather who taught me to shoot and gun safety. I also spent a lot of time on my Uncles ranch and farm where I learned to drive at 14. Also, every pickup had a rifle in it. So I was around guns a lot and never remember not being around them. That is probably not typical of most kids so I understand some people’s anxiety. But teach kids correct principles and they learn to govern themselves. Just as kitchen knives are dangerous, and hot stoves, and power tools, and prescriptions, and Drain-O, we must teach kids to be safe. There are many dangerous things in this world that can potentially kill a person and we must be safe with them all. Vehicles are the leading killer of people 1-24. Yet we think nothing of getting into a car. But just as we teach kids to look both ways and wear their seat belts we must teach them to leave a gun alone that they come across and how to be safe around one. It’s not that hard. The problem that I see is not with kids but with adults. There is so much misinformation out there and many adults who are ignorant about guns. Every person should learn to swim. I believe every person needs to learn how to be safe with a gun. Even if you never shoot a gun, never own a gun, and don’t think you’ll ever be in contact with a gun, you should learn gun safety. I don’t own a boat, don’t like to swim and haven’t floated down a river since I was a kid but it’s important for me to know how to swim and be safe around water. I’ve seen adults who were deathly afraid of guns. I’ve taught some of them how to shoot. Once you take the mystery out of shooting it’s not too difficult to put your fears to rest. Having a healthy respect for what guns can do is a good thing. Being irrationally afraid of an inanimate object is silly.
I’ve always started kids off with .22 rifles and moved to .22 handguns. Once they know how to be safe, every time, then they can move to other calibers and more power fun. If they are interested. Some kids are just not. I’ve seen some people start off with airsoft or air rifles and that is fine. That is a good way to teach the safety under a less lethal device. Marksmanship can be very satisfying and can build self-esteem and skill. When safety is never lax and always emphasized, kids will learn what they need to be safe even if they never shoot another gun.
When teaching a kid about gun safety make sure you are in a place that is not distracting. As you progress emphasize that guns are not toys and gun education is not learned from video games or T.V. and movies. In fact, most of the time the entertainment industry is wrong about gun handling. I also teach only 4 gun safety rules. The NRA teaches more but I like the simplicity of 4. Always in this order:
1. All guns are always loaded
2. Never point a gun at anything you’re not willing to destroy
3. Keep your finger out of the trigger guard and off the trigger until your sights are on your target
4. Know your target and what is behind it
I quiz like this: “Billy why do we keep #3?” The answer is “Because of #1”
“Sherrie if I keep #4 then what will happen?” The answer is “There will not be an accident because a bullet went through the target and hurt someone behind.” “Jacob why do we keep #2?” The answer is “Because of #1.” “Jen what is #1 and how does it keep me safe?” The answer is “All guns are loaded and if you treat them that way you will never have an accident.”
Number 2, 3, and 4 support number 1.
This is also how I teach adults also. If you want to give education and information to your children on guns you must do 4 things:
1. Take out the mystique and taboo of guns
I don’t want my kids playing with knives either but they used knives under supervision from a young age starting with a butter knife. Whenever kids show a curiosity or interest in guns I would take one out and remind them again of the safety rules. I would make the gun safe and then let them handle it. They had to clear the weapon, and then practice the safety rules.
2. Emphasize safety
As I have explained above, my kids know those rules forward and backward. I got lots of groans and eye-rolls when I would ask them, but they knew them.
3. Start small
I started with .22’s but insisted, later in their training and when they were older, that they shoot higher caliber guns. Not to force them into something they did not want to do, but so they understood the power and seriousness of what we were doing. Some of them embraced higher powered guns, some of them did not, but they all have some experience with them.
I also started with little bites. I made their first range experience a good one giving them a good foundation in safety, but a fun experience so they would come back. I also made it brief. 20 to 30 minutes or so. They range time got longer later and as they matured and got older. I made sure I taught only a few concepts at a time to not overload them. If you try to teach grip, stance, trigger press, aim, safety, all at once, they may overload.
4. Make it fun
Making the experience fun and enjoyable was very good for them. We spent some good Dad time together. Even if we didn’t shoot that often, I tried to make it a fun and enjoyable experience.
Teaching your kids this skill may save their lives one day. They would know what to do with a gun if ever it was handed to them. And they may find a skill and hobby that will take them to competition, hunting, or a life-long activity.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Holiday Security

Merry Christmas! This is the time of year we start thinking about spending quality time with family and friends, sharing meals together, pumpkin pie, reasons to be thankful, hot chocolate, fuzzy slippers and presents. Criminals are usually prowling more during this time too. They know there are extra thing under the tree for them.
There was a survey done buy an international security company about how people feel about their personal safety. The participants were from the U.S, Canada, the U.K., New Zealand, and Finland. Now you may, or may not know, that I don’t hold much stock in surveys. I don’t trust the manipulation of data in the way questions can be worded. But, at times I find them interesting. This survey revealed:
• 73% of the survey respondents thought that personal safety devices are needed more now than ten years ago.
• 66% of the survey respondents would use a safety device when running alone.
• 54% of the survey respondents wanted to be sure their elderly relatives are doing okay by ensuring they had a way to send an alert message, just in case.
• 41% of the survey respondents would use a safety product or service to be aware of their children’s whereabouts.
• 41% of the survey respondents are using a product or service that enhances a loved one’s personal safety.

I think it’s interesting that this survey was done in other countries, other than the U.S. These other countries have much stricter gun control than the U.S.
Here are some tips to remember:
1. If you are carrying a wallet, keep it in a front pocket.
2. Be sure to walk in well-lit, highly-traveled streets…even during daytime hours. Never take shortcuts through parking lots or alleys.
3. If walking on a sidewalk near a street, always walk facing the traffic to avoid being surprised by someone in a vehicle.
4. If someone is walking behind you or approaching you and you are unsure of their intent, make direct eye contact with them to let the person know that you are aware, you see them and you are not a victim.
5. If you think you are being followed, abruptly switch directions or duck into a police station, fire station, hospital, business or public place and ask for help.
6. In your cell phone contacts, program “ICE,” which stands for “in case of emergency,” linking it to a family member or friend…someone you trust the police, firemen or other authorities to call if you are unable to call for yourself.
7. Program 9-1-1 into your direct dial feature of your cell phone.
8. Remember that talking on your cell phone or listening to headphones in public makes you easy prey.
9. Change your walking routine by planning different routes and take note of “safe places” you could go should something happen. Your driving routes should be varied also.
10. When approaching your home or vehicle, never fumble in your pocket, purse or bag for keys; have them in your hand prior to reaching the door.
11. When approaching your parked car, look and make sure no one is hiding in or around your vehicle, especially in the back seat.
12. When on public transportation, cover your jewelry. Turn stone rings toward the palm side of your hand.
13. Keep your space: intimate space = 0 to 1.5 feet; personal space = 1.5 to 4 feet; social space = 4 to 12 feet; and public space = 12 feet or more.
If you have home security cameras installed, now is a great time to check that everything is in working order. A few questions to ask yourself are– Are the cameras properly installed and connected? Are they still facing the areas they were originally set for or do they need to be readjusted? And if you have outdoor cameras installed, make sure they are properly working too. Are they fully covering the areas you want to protect? Is there any dirt or debris covering the lenses? These are all important things to check for that will give you peace of mind during the holidays, especially if you’ll be traveling and leaving your home.
When planning to go out of town for the holidays be sure to lock all doors and windows. Yes, we know what you’re thinking — “Of course I know to lock my doors!” As much as it seems like a no-brainer, you’d be surprised at how many home burglaries happen because of an unlocked door or window. And if you’re in a two-story home, lock your doors and windows upstairs too. Lock up your ladders too.
Another important tip is to tell a trusted neighbor that you will be leaving town. You can ask them to watch over your home while you’re away. You could even ask that they park one of their vehicles in your driveway; that way it looks like someone is home while you’re gone.
Additionally, as tempting as it is in today’s connected world to share everything we do, try to resist posting your holiday trip on social media while you’re away. Share your pictures and updates after you get back.
When you’re out shopping in stores this holiday season, whether for food for your Christmas meal, or gifts for loved ones, a good rule of thumb is to pay in cash.
If at all possible, budget what you’re going to spend and then take out the cash. This will not only prevent you from overspending, this will reduce the chance of your credit card information being stolen and becoming another cyber-attack victim. These past couple of years have proven just how vulnerable some major retailers are when it comes to cyber security so instead of taking a chance of having your information stolen, just pay cash.
Overall, the holidays are a peaceful time with family and friends. Don’t let holes in your personal, in-home, and online security leave you vulnerable. Enjoy your holidays with a peace of mind.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Complacency And Lack Of Education Kills

A few years back I took a young couple to the range to shoot guns. The husband wanted to buy a gun but the wife wasn’t sure because of her fear of guns and the safety of her children. At the time I was working with the husband and he shared his problem with me. Even though a few years prior his wife was discharged from the military, she still was apprehensive around guns. I told my friend we could set up a time when we could all meet at the shooting range and I could help to educate his wife. We met and we talked about our experiences with guns. I wanted her to be put at ease that I had significant training and experience with guns. I wanted her to be confident in my ability to train. After we talked a little I then explained and showed them all the safety equipment and we talked about the safety rules. All this was done without a gun in sight. Then I got out a .22 rifle. We talked about sight picture and she shot that gun quite accurately. Then I brought out a .22 pistol. She shot that for a while. Then I brought out a .380. Then a 9mm. I brought out a .357 revolver and we talked about the differences and she shot that. I brought out an AR chambered in .223/5.56. There were some guns she liked better than others. She loved the .22 and the AR. We finished and I had her hold her target and I told her she just qualified for a concealed weapon license if she wanted to apply and pay the fee. She was happy that she qualified even though she was not planning on carrying. After the shooting we sat again and talked about safety and storing a gun safely. We talked about various ways to store guns and even ways to store it safely where an adult had easy, quick access if needed. Going into the class she was apprehensive about even being around a gun. Leaving the class she had a knowledge that alleviated that apprehensive feeling. Knowledge is power. So how do you live with guns? “What the heck is this Burn!?” You say? There are some people who have a gun with them always. They must learn to live with guns. I have had guns near me for so long, I have to change up the way I do things often enough to not be complacent. The other day I had a panic attack. It was because I did not have my gun on me and for a moment I could not remember where I put it. It was only for a moment and then I retraced my steps and remembered where I had secured it. In the bubble (green zone) you had to be armed always. One of the things that frustrated me as an instructor is that soldiers were taught how to use weapons, but not really how to live with them. It’s not like you’re carrying car keys. You have to be safe and secure with a gun. You can’t leave it just anywhere. It must be secured because there are kids and adults who do not know how to handle them. In a combat situation it could mean the difference between engaging the enemy, or being behind cover with your rifle 5 feet away next to a chair. You’re like a sitting duck.

This fearless and audacious system of gun-handling, combined with good judgement, and common sense will enable you to live with loaded guns daily and never experience even your first accident. Professional gunmen are distinguished from pretenders by four main points.
(1) We’re always armed. Yes, we really live it.
(2) We don’t have accidents with guns.
(3) We don’t hesitate
(4) We don’t miss.

Too often we bask in the sunshine of good times. I’m not wishing ill or difficulty on anyone, but with no problems comes complacency.


Complacency Kills
Many have heard the phrase complacency kills. There is more to it than the actual killing of a person. There are actually 3 more areas besides the battle field in which complacency is killing us regarding the use of force. The others are the mind, the media and the courts.
Here is how complacency and the lack of training on the reasonable use of force can kill you:
While many may focus on the fact you could be killed by an act of violence, while true, that is rare in comparison to the other areas we are getting killed in.
The MIND- Being complacent about proper training, the kind that includes the mental preparation for dealing with violence and the use of force, has turned us into people who are jaded. Complacency kills the compassion for others because you begin to see everyone as evil. This in turn changes our culture into accepting the behavior regardless of the perpetrator.
The MEDIA- We are getting killed in the media. Both mainstream and social. Recent events like the ones captured on video showing gun owners doing stupid things. Or worse, instructors having a negligent discharge or teaching bad habits through bad example. Bad examples, though I believe rare, travels much faster and becomes viral more so than any acts of good we do.
The COURTS- Real and public opinion. Failing to understand the reasonable use of force is killing us in not only the real courts, but the court for public opinion as well. We have to be better at informing and educating. No one knows when violence may affect them. Without being paranoid, we need to be prepared.
Complacency about the use of force in self-defense is in fact killing us. It is killing our kindness, our compassion, our perception by the public and our peers.
It would only make sense that practicing peace requires as much effort as preparing for war.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Monthly Read: Book Review For December

Once a month I will review and recommend a book. I know in this digital world that paper books are a little out dated. Most hard copy books are now in digital form, often in PDF. I would recommend a good well rounded hard copy library in your home. Some of the best books are old and out of print. There are certain publishers and authors I really like. This will be books I like and really only my opinion. If you’d like to recommend a book for me to review e-mail me and we can make it happen. The subjects will be varied but will have to do with the theme of this website, LDS Gunsite. Guns, preparedness, LDS History, security, self-defense, and patriotism are just a few examples. I have a big library of mostly reference books so I will draw heavily from that. Some books may be old and out of print. But most will be books you can find on Amazon.

December

“Ditch Medicine-Advanced Field Procedures For Emergencies” By: Hugh L. Coffee

Publishers Review
Hugh Coffee (Team Medic / Ditch Medicine / First Aid Instructor) has worked as a paramedic / firefighter for over thirty years. During this time, he held both line and administrative EMS positions at the county and state levels. He has provided emergency medical care and instruction in the austere environments of Guatemala, Kenya, Sudan, and Peru. In 1985, Hugh earned a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Georgia State University. He is the author of Ditch Medicine and numerous magazine articles.
Whether it's a war zone or a civil disaster area, traumatic injuries often occur in remote, unsanitary locations. This book teaches advanced field procedures for small wound repair, care of the infected wound, IV therapy, pain control, amputations, treatment of burns, airway procedures and more.

My review
This is a great reference book but should really only be used by someone with some medical training. But in an emergency it is good to have the information. This is not a first aid manual. When the title says “advanced” it really means it. The book is written with the layman in mind. It is simple and even has many drawings and pictures. I would recommend it for your preparedness library.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Interesting (maybe) Facts About LDS Gunsite

Interesting facts about LDS Gunsite

Started February 2014

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As of today, 12 DEC 2018 total views are: Over 78,000 views

This numbers don’t mean much to you and really to us. We’re just amazed of the number of views from countries that do not speak the language or have much gun ownership!
We appreciate all who have interest in our little website. We try to write interesting content. Content that may not be addressed on other sites. We hope that we can serve and bring to light information that will help our readers.
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Great New Year!
Semper Paratus (Always Prepared)
Check 6
Burning Bush, FLAG, Choirboy and our families!

Constitutional Carry: My Opinion

Constitutional Carry is no requirement in a state to have a license to carry a gun.
I don’t like Constitutional Carry. I am a fierce gun rights advocate. I am a Life member of the NRA and have taught safety and shooting for over 25 years. I say this because I don’t want you to think I don’t care about gun laws. But as a gun “expert” (whatever that is), I feel that those that own a gun, or especially those who carry a gun, should be licensed. The licensing process does a couple things. It weeds out some with its background check. I think that is important although I don’t think we should have mandatory background checks for private sales. I know, that seems like a dichotomy, but that’s my stance. I have trained many people from all walks of life and backgrounds, one thing I have learned is that most people need gun training. There are those who arrogantly think they know enough, until an instructor gets them on a range. I can honestly say that I continue to learn. I have evolved in my beliefs about shooting. I’m not the same instructor I was when I finished the military small arms instructor’s course as a 25 year old. Many people who have guns are dangerous or careless with them. There is a plethora of You Tube videos out there to confirm my beliefs. I’m afraid if constitutional (con) carry becomes law in all states we will have a potential for many people with guns that they are not proficient with. With this carelessness comes a blasé attitude toward storage and handling. I’ve seen it many times. Someone is around me with a pistol and keeps muzzling me until I have to grab the barrel and physically move it to a safe direction. Or the person that picks up a gun and immediately puts their finger on the trigger. Just Google “007 James Bond poster.” You will see Roger Moore and Sean Connery holding a gun like a tough guy. Then you may notice that their finger is not straight. They have a finger on the trigger and all that tells me is that these actors who are supposed to be portraying someone experienced with guns have not done their homework. James Bond would never hold a gun that way! He is supposed to be the smooth, professional who knows what he is doing. Not an actor whose only exposure to a gun is posing for a picture holding a prop.
Constitutional Carry does nothing for our freedom except put inexperienced people out there with guns. I realize that some states “classes” for concealed weapons licenses are a joke, but that should change. I also think the cost of getting a license should not be prohibitive. Just like a driver’s license, you should be responsible with a potentially dangerous thing. Some think the government should stay completely out of the 2nd Amendment, but a minimal regulation is OK by me. The problem is that often laws are made without some expert advice. Some of the requirements for a CCL should take some training to learn. Many states have little to no requirements and others have information that is not needed to carry and use a gun.
I also feel that if you carry a gun you should receive additional training and practice. To encourage this the state could give a rebate on the cost of a license to lessen the financial burden of additional training and practice. The state could give some money to schools or instructors that train these citizens to offset the cost. It should be a little easier is all I’m saying. It should not be free, because it should cost a little and take effort to get and maintain this license. Practice is sorely lacking in all of this. I shudder to think what some of these people would do if they had to actually fire their weapon at a threat.
Carrying a gun is serious business and should be an endeavor that is entered into with thought and preparation. I won’t even talk about the implications of killing another human being and how lightly some think of that. It is an act that can ruin a person’s life legally, emotionally, and financially. But beside that, the actual being ready part is challenging. Most people would be responsible but they need incentive. They like the idea of having a gun for protection but aren’t really gun nuts. They would do what needs to be done if it were reasonable with their time and money. Let’s face it, it’s not cheap. You take an initial class ($100 to $150), then the license ($50 plus $20 for fingerprints). This is not including ammo and the cost of the gun. So if you add other training and ammunition costs, the average person is not as interested as they were initially. It can be easier. I mean if the state is getting involved anyway then maybe they should do it right!
I feel the same about open carry. I’m not sure what the point is. Just because you can? I don’t want good guys or bad guys to know I am armed. The first person to die in a serious bank robbery is the guard with the gun. He or she is clearly the biggest threat to the robber. I don’t want to get into a gun fight but I would like the element of surprise in certain situations. As a concealed carrier I rarely have surprise from a direct threat to me.
Training should be ongoing. There are so many great schools and great instructors out there. Find a good source of training and then also do it yourself. Go to the range. Learn safe dry fire. This is effective and requires little cost. Maybe some snap caps. But learn drills that are true to your defensive needs. There can be a lot of fluff out there.
As in all things on LDS Gunsite, this is truly only my opinion.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Overwatch: Drill of The Month For December

Jeff Cooper taught this drill along with the original El Presidente


El Presidente and Variations (pistol, 12 rounds) Jeff Cooper
3 IPSC targets at 10 yds, spaced 1 yd apart edge to edge Facing up range, (surrender position) turn, draw and fire 2 rds at T1-T3. Reload, fire 2 rds at T1-T3.
Par times: (for a clean run)
D Class: 15 seconds
C Class: 11.25 seconds
B Class: 7.5 seconds
A Class: 6.0 seconds
Master Class: 5.3 seconds
Grand Master Class: 4.75 seconds
Original API (American Pistol Institute) par time was 10 seconds

Variations: Vice Pres (shot at 7 yards).
Demi-Presidente (10 yards, 2rds T1-T3, reload, 1rd to head of T1-T3. Same par)


See “Overwatch: Drill of the Month” page for more drills

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Gun Inventory: A Man Has To Know His Limitations

“I know what guns I have, why do I need an inventory?” This was the question I received when I suggested to some students that they inventory their guns. My answer to his question is this, do you know the serial numbers of all your guns? Do you have a picture of each gun so there is no question if your gun is stolen or your house burns down? If you have a gun for years and then sell it, wouldn’t it be good to have information on that gun if the police come looking for it because it was used in crime and your bought it from Cabella’s? Having specifics and a picture of your guns, and even selling information, can save you a lot of headaches.
There are several apps for your phone or device or programs for your computer. These make it easy to keep track of everything including accessories like magazines and scopes. Also there are some that keep track of ammunition in the same way.
I have played around with some of these apps but I prefer just a general record. On my Word document I include:
Make, model, caliber, barrel length, finish/color, capacity, and action
Serial number
How many magazines I have for that particular gun
Purchase information
When, cost, seller, location
If gun was sold:
Buyer information, date sold
Picture of the gun from all sides
Where the gun is stored (I even put what color the case is if it’s in a case)
The reason I keep inventory is so that I can keep track of our guns. Knowing where they are is important to me if they are stashed or locked up in places other than our main safe. I won’t get into this in depth but we live in the country in a secluded location. We have guns safely put in various locations in our home and out of our home. You may even want to cache some guns or ammo. It’s important to know where your guns are to maintain control of them and for safety reasons. I use my guns often and I try to maintain a routine of keeping them in the same places to keep them safe and secure.
It’s also good to know the exact model numbers when shopping for accessories. If you have more than 5 guns the salient details of each gun may escape your memory.
In addition to an electronic inventory I have a binder that I keep all hard copy items concerning my guns. I have manuals, receipts for both guns purchased and guns sold. I keep specific info or instructions I’ve pulled off the internet about specific modifications I may have done to each gun. I keep insurance info in there. I keep updated gun laws for my state in there. I have applications for concealed carry or maybe FFL information. I keep hard copies of training in this binder and a log of due dates for licenses and certifications.
These records can also have pictures taken of them and be included in your electronic record.
Records are very important because they can tell a story of gun history such as repairs. It can give a history of training also.
Keeping records can be very beneficial to your gun world. I highly recommend you use it to the utmost of your advantage. If any guns are stolen or my house burns down I want a record of my investments in guns for insurance and legal reasons.
Be organized and keep an inventory.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Overwatch: Drill of the Month For November

November 2018

Reload Drill (pistol, 9+ rounds, 3 magazines) VTAC – Kyle Lamb Target: BC Steel 10y – Draw and fire 3 hits, reload fire 3 hits, reload fire 3 hits for total time. Vary from slide lock, to speed reload, etc. Work through as many magazine pouches as you want.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

See “Overwatch: Drill of the Month” page for more drills

Concealed Carry And Forgiveness

If you carry remember to have ADD. Avoid, Deter, De-escalate. You have to be that type of person. I consider myself to be an aggressive person. But I also try to defuse situations that will get me in trouble. I’m not politically correct, but I don’t want to find a fight. If one comes to me, I feel I can end the fight, but I don’t go looking. Remember what the ancient prophet Moroni encouraged, don’t be “...a man of blood.”
If you pay attention to the news, you’ll have most likely seen the story about a recent joke made on Saturday Night Live about former Navy SEAL and Congressman-Elect, Dan Crenshaw. The joke was made by SNL’s Pete Davidson and drew a large amount of backlash from Veteran’s organizations across the country, despite Crenshaw shaking it off.

A few weeks ago, Pete Davidson appeared on SNL offering an apology to surprise guest, Dan Crenshaw. While the appearance by Davidson and Crenshaw was shaping up to be a run-of-the-mill apology, Crenshaw turned it into an amazing message for Veteran’s Day.

“But, seriously, there’s a lot of lessons to learn here. Not just that the left and right can still agree on some things but also this, Americans can forgive one another. We can remember what brings us together as a country and still see the good in each other. This is Veteran’s Day weekend, which means that it’s a good time for every American to connect with a Veteran. Maybe say, “Thanks for your service,” but I would actually encourage you to say something else. Tell a Veteran “Never forget.” When you say “Never Forget” to a Veteran, you are implying that, as an American, you are in it with them, not separated by some imaginary barrier between civilians and Veterans, but connected together as grateful fellow Americans; who will never forget the sacrifices made by Veterans past and present. And never forget those we lost on 9/11; heroes like Pete’s father.” (Pete Davidson’s father was a firefighter who died in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.) “So I’ll just say, Pete? Never forget.”

This is a great opportunity that was taken to express real connective views. I too tire of the politics and baloney of the right and the left. I try to stay away from each of these sides as an independent. But I always find myself back toward the right when it comes down to it. But what I really like in this message is the word “forgiveness.” If more in politics and our individual opinions would remember the importance of forgiveness I think we could see more progress in this country. We don’t have to back down from our opinions, just forgive others for what we perceive as offense to our side and this country. Being offended is always a choice. We don’t have to be. Elenor Roosevelt said this:
“No one can offend you without your permission.” We can suck it up and not be offended because someone doesn’t agree with us. As a concealed carrier, we must be slow to temper and hard to offend.
Not only is it important to be this way when you carry a lethal weapon, but it makes your life much easier in every aspect. I am confident enough and self-assured enough in my own life and opinions to not be upset all the time. It takes maturity and discipline.
Forgiveness is freedom. Even if the other party remains angry and holds a grudge. You don’t have to, you can forgive and be free again.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Veteran's Day Remembrances

President Wilson said in November of 1919:
"To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…"
The fighting of World War I stopped at 11 a.m. of the 11th month (Nov), on the 11th day. It was called Armistice and it was celebrated on November 11th to commemorate that Armistice. As time went on and WWII came to pass the day was eventually changed to a Monday and celebrated as Veteran’s Day. In 1978 is was changed back to the original November 11th and has been this way ever since.
Veteran’s Day is coming upon us Sunday, November 11, 2018. Please remember this day and celebrate it appropriately. Veteran’s that want to be involved in celebrations will be. Those who want to take it easy will do that too. We know there is a parade. Please don’t tell us we should be there. Also, don’t ask stupid questions like “Did you kill anyone?” These are personal things that are only shared when needed. If one of us was involved in combat we generally don’t want to talk about it, or we have already talked about it with the people of our choice. Saying Thank you is appropriate, but don’t tell us why you didn’t serve because we frankly, don’t care. Be respectful.
One good way to pay respect on Veteran’s Day is to fly the flag. Contrary to others “free speech” ideas the United States flag is something that we respect. If you feel a need to desecrate this symbol that we fought under, and watched others die under, please do so somewhere away from us.
If you fly the flag here are some guidelines:
STANDARDS of RESPECT
The Flag Code, which formalizes and unifies the traditional ways in which we give respect to the flag, also contains specific instructions on how the flag is not to be used. They are:
• The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing. It is flown upside down only as a distress signal.
• The flag should not be used as a drapery, or for covering a speaker’s desk, draping a platform, or for any decoration in general. Bunting of blue, white and red stripes is available for these purposes. The blue stripe of the bunting should be on the top.
• The flag should never be used for any advertising purpose. It should not be embroidered, printed or otherwise impressed on such articles as cushions, handkerchiefs, napkins, boxes, or anything intended to be discarded after temporary use. Advertising signs should not be attached to the staff or halyard
• The flag should not be used as part of a costume or athletic uniform, except that a flag patch may be used on the uniform of military personnel, fireman, policeman and members of patriotic organizations.
• The flag should never have placed on it, or attached to it, any mark, insignia, letter, word, number, figure, or drawing of any kind.
• The flag should never be used as a receptacle for receiving, holding, carrying, or delivering anything.
When the flag is lowered, no part of it should touch the ground or any other object; it should be received by waiting hands and arms. To store the flag it should be folded neatly and ceremoniously.
The flag should be cleaned and mended when necessary.
When a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner.

Displaying the Flag Outdoors
When the flag is displayed from a staff projecting from a window, balcony, or a building, the union should be at the peak of the staff unless the flag is at half-staff.
When it is displayed from the same flagpole with another flag - of a state, community, society or Scout unit - the flag of the United States must always be at the top except that the church pennant may be flown above the flag during church services for Navy personnel when conducted by a Naval chaplain on a ship at sea.
When the flag is displayed over a street, it should be hung vertically, with the union to the north or east. If the flag is suspended over a sidewalk, the flag's union should be farthest from the building.
When flown with flags of states, communities, or societies on separate flag poles which are of the same height and in a straight line, the flag of the United States is always placed in the position of honor - to its own right.
..The other flags may be smaller but none may be larger.
..No other flag ever should be placed above it.
..The flag of the United States is always the first flag raised and the last to be lowered.
When flown with the national banner of other countries, each flag must be displayed from a separate pole of the same height. Each flag should be the same size. They should be raised and lowered simultaneously. The flag of one nation may not be displayed above that of another nation.
Raising and Lowering the Flag
The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously. Ordinarily it should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset. It should be illuminated if displayed at night.
The flag of the United States of America is saluted as it is hoisted and lowered. The salute is held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard or through the last note of music, whichever is the longest.
Displaying the Flag Indoors
When on display, the flag is accorded the place of honor, always positioned to its own right. Place it to the right of the speaker or staging area or sanctuary. Other flags should be to the left.
The flag of the United States of America should be at the center and at the highest point of the group when a number of flags of states, localities, or societies are grouped for display.
When one flag is used with the flag of the United States of America and the staffs are crossed, the flag of the United States is placed on its own right with its staff in front of the other flag.
When displaying the flag against a wall, vertically or horizontally, the flag's union (stars) should be at the top, to the flag's own right, and to the observer's left.
Parading and Saluting the Flag
When carried in a procession, the flag should be to the right of the marchers. When other flags are carried, the flag of the United States may be centered in front of the others or carried to their right. When the flag passes in a procession, or when it is hoisted or lowered, all should face the flag and salute.
The Salute
To salute, all persons come to attention. Those in uniform give the appropriate formal salute. Citizens not in uniform salute by placing their right hand over the heart and men with head cover should remove it and hold it to left shoulder, hand over the heart. Members of organizations in formation salute upon command of the person in charge.

The Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem
The pledge of allegiance should be rendered by standing at attention, facing the flag, and saluting.
When the national anthem is played or sung, citizens should stand at attention and salute at the first note and hold the salute through the last note. The salute is directed to the flag,
My wife was a typical military wife. She is fiercely patriotic. Because of her service by supporting my service she is part of the military in a very real way. When she sees a worn and faded flag in front of any store or restaurant, she talks to managers to tell them to replace the flag. She has done it all over the town we live near and she has even done it when we were on vacation and in other places. She understands the sacrifice of those who paid the “last full measure of devotion” for that flag and for this country. She and I feel that disloyalty to the flag is disloyalty to those who gave all for us.
I am a veteran. I served in a combat support role but found myself in the thick of that combat. As we were rolling down a runway at egress speed, being shot at, I saw out the starboard door of the aircraft the United States flag that I fought under. I watched as some good friends and brothers died with that same flag attached to their uniform.
If you want to thank a veteran, fly and respect the flag that represents so much to us. Our country was “conceived in liberty.” And it has been through much and has “long endured.” The least we can do is show respect that those who served so richly deserve.
Be mindful that some veterans experience in the military was not pleasant because of combat circumstances. Veterans Day and Memorial Day aren’t always days of celebration for them.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Basics Of Buying A Tourniquet

1. It should be the first thing you see when you open your first aid kit. If your first aid kit has pockets on the outside, you may even want to put it there instead. The idea is that you want to be able to grab it as fast and as easily as possible.
2. When you pack it, you should also preset the adjusting strap so that the loop is long enough to go around your thigh.
3. When in doubt, APPLY IT. You can take it off any time within the next 2 hours without damaging your patient.
4. If your tourniquet doesn’t have a place to write the time of application, take some masking tape and wrap it around the end of the adjustment strap.
5. It’s fine to use 2 if 1 doesn't stop the bleeding.
6. This can be used in conjunction with quick clotting bandages, Israeli bandages, or other hemostatic agents.
7. This won’t feel comfortable. On an uninjured arm proper application will cause some bruising.
8. Try to remove heavy coats or pants. It can be applied over clothing, but bunched or folded cloth makes it more difficult to stop blood flow.
9. For a fast deployment, you can carry your tourniquet using a tourniquet holder.
CAT (Combat Application Tourniquet)
The CAT is one of the first manufactured tourniquets, one of the most common used by the military quite popular. It secures with Velcro & uses a windlass to twist the strap tighter. The windlass is secured by inserted one end into a cradle.

SOF T (special operations forces tactical)
The strap of the SOF Tactical Tourniquet is secured with a quick-connect / break-apart buckle and tightened with a windlass like the CAT. The windlass is secured by a “tri-ring” or D-ring at one end.
Two versions are available: The original SOF-T with a 1″ wide strap & the newer SOF-T Wide with a 1.5″ strap

MATResponder
The MATResponder is constructed with a rigid C shaped plastic Collar & constricting strap. The strap is secured around the limb with a buckle hook. A turning handle tightens the tourniquet.
The strap has a limited ability to tighten, so the tourniquet strap must be tightly applied. It is more bulky & therefore harder to pack than other tourniquets. However, the tourniquet is easily released by either lifting the plastic hook that locks down the strap, or by pressing the release button.
SWATT (stretch, wrap, and tuck tourniquet)
Essentially a simple elastic tourniquet, the SWATT can be wrapped around limb tightly, fully stretching it at each wrap so compressive pressure is applied. The end is tucked into the wrap.
RATS (rapid application tourniquet system)
It is recommended that you get at least three sequential wraps. Guys with thick legs will barely able to get two complete wraps on their thighs. There is a potential for tissue damage if the wraps are spaced too close or too far, but that is true of any tourniquet system applied inappropriately. Wrapping and stretching the R.A.T.S. requires a fairly wide range of motion
The RATS Tourniquet features a very minimal footprint allowing you to tuck this thing in places your other tourniquets won’t go. Application time is around 22 seconds for self-application to the leg & 35 seconds to the arm.
Make sure your tourniquet is easily accessible.
Practice applying it in less than 30 seconds.
Should be placed high and tight, close to the body.
Use with Quickclot bandages or Israeli/pressure bandages.
Don’t leave a tourniquet on longer than 2 hours.
Tourniquets can and do save lives. But learning to use them and apply them correctly are extremely important. Get good and competent training.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Indentifying The Rare Mail Bomb

I worked with EOD (explosive ordinance disposal) for a year in the military. I learned how to recognize and dispose of bombs and other explosives. I had a defective mine go off in my hand but because it was defective, the explosion was minor, and I was in a bomb suit. But it scared the stuffing out of me!
Mail or package bombs are very rare. There is about a one in 10 billion (with a “b”) chance you would ever come into contact with one. Generally these things are used on specific targets or targeted organizations. But here are some tips to recognizing a parcel that just doesn’t seem right.
• Mail bombs may have excessive postage. Normally a bomber does not want to mail a parcel over the counter and have to deal face-to-face with a window clerk.
• The return address may be fictitious or non-existent.
• The postmark may show a different location than the return address.
• Improper spelling of common words, common names, places or titles.
• Mail bombs may bear restricted endorsements, such as "Personal" or "Private." This is particularly important when the addressee does not usually receive personal mail at the office.
• Unexpected mail from foreign countries – e.g. air mail and special delivery.
• Mail bombs may display distorted handwriting, or the name and address may be prepared with homemade labels or cut-and-paste lettering.
• Parcel bombs may be unprofessionally wrapped with several combinations of tape used to secure the package, and may be endorsed "Fragile--Handle With Care" or "Rush--Do Not Delay."
• Letter bombs may feel rigid, or appear uneven or lopsided.
• Package bombs may have an irregular shape, soft spots or bulges.
• Mail bombs may have protruding wires, aluminum foil, or oil stains, and may emit a peculiar odor.
If you see one or more of these indicators and you’re not sure about the package or piece of mail do the following:

Unopened Package

• Stop handling the item – place on the nearest flat surface
• Do not try to clean up any spillage
• Wash hands thoroughly
• Call 9-1-1
• Evacuate the room and building
• Close and secure room door
• Await further advice or instructions from law enforcement
• Don't put it in water or a confined space, such as a desk drawer or cabinet.
• If possible, open windows in the immediate area to assist in venting potentially explosive gases.
. Opened Package

• Do not spill or further disperse contents, do not leave the room with the package
• Do not touch eyes, nose or any other part of the body
• Follow instructions in “Unopened Package” above

Don't worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent. Instead, contact the Postal Inspection Service and your local police department.
As I said above, the chances are pretty slim you’ll ever encounter this situation. But it’s always good to be prepared.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

First Aid Basics: Using A Chest Seal

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. I have limited experience and limited training in this area. I’d like to have more training. The information I give here is just that, for informational purposes only. For real training, seek competent medical professionals.
I once asked an ER doctor to give some training for a group of people who were interested in some additional first aid training. When he showed up he was very knowledgeable and very helpful, but his limitations in field medicine were obvious. He knew how to care for patients in a hospital setting with almost unlimited personnel and equipment at his disposal. In the field by himself only his knowledge of medicine was his advantage over the average person. We usually have the same supplies and gear. I’m not saying I didn’t learn anything from this obviously talented doctor, but what we needed was a field medic. Doctors and nurses are usually tied to a hospital or office with resources. I don’t fault them, I appreciate their life saving skills, and some of them have some good field experience. But often they can lack the “seat-of-your-pants” medicine that is needed for the field.
While fighting in a battle that never seemed to end in South America we lost some brothers. There were some injuries also and one guy was shot in the chest. We administered first aid and the wound was a “through-and-through”. Our medic put on a chest seal and the bleeding was minimal. He actually did a little fighting until the next day when we could all get out. I was able to help the medic so I got my real world experience in using a chest seal (my one and only experience!) I can remember being trained in doing this and using whatever plastic we had available, even a cigarette pack plastic wrap. I never thought I’d ever have to use any of that training.
A sucking chest wound (SCW) happens when an injury causes a hole to open in your chest. SCWs are often caused by stabbing, gunshots, or other injuries that penetrate the chest.
Signs of an SCW include:
an opening in the chest, about the size of a coin
hissing or sucking sounds when the person inhales and exhales
heavy bleeding from the wound
bright red or pinkish, foaming blood around the wound
coughing up blood
SCWs sometimes make no noise. Treat any wound caused by chest penetration as an SCW.
What should I do to provide immediate first aid?
If an object is still protruding from the wound, don’t remove it. This can make the injury worse.
Call your local emergency services immediately. If no emergency services are available, get the injured person to a hospital as soon as possible. Follow any steps that the emergency services operator gives you. You may be directed to do the following:
1. Sterilize your hands with soap and water.
2. Put on gloves or other hand protection.
3. Remove any loose clothing or objects covering the wound. Don’t remove clothing that’s stuck to the wound.
4. Keep a hand over the wound while preparing a dressing. Protect your hand with a glove or other hand protection. If possible, have someone else put their hand over the wound. If no one else is available, have the injured person cover the wound with their hand if they’re still able to do so.
5. Find a chest seal or sterile, medical-grade plastic, or tape to seal the wound. If you don’t have medical plastic, use a clean Ziploc bag or a credit card for the wound. Use your hands if you have no other option.
6. If possible, ask the person to breathe out to release any excess air.
7. Place tape, plastic, or a chest seal over any hole that’s sucking in air, including entry and exit wounds. Make sure no air enters any wound.
8. Secure the tape or seal with occlusive dressing or similar wrapping material that can create a water and airtight seal. Make sure the seal has at least one open side to let out air without letting air in.
9. Remove the seal if you notice symptoms of tension pneumothorax, or a buildup of air in the chest. This happens when a lung leaks air into the chest and builds pressure. This can cause extremely low blood pressure (shock) and be fatal. Symptoms include crackling sounds when the person breathes in or out (subcutaneous emphysema), lip or finger blueness (cyanosis), enlarged neck veins (jugular vein distention), short, shallow breaths, and one side of the chest appearing larger than the other.
Keep the person on their side unless this makes it harder for them to breathe. Let out as much excess air as possible from the chest while making sure that the person can still breathe.
If the person loses consciousness or stops breathing, do the following:
Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
use a blanket to keep them from getting too cold
don’t let the person eat or drink
put pressure on wounds to slow bleeding
These are the basics of a SCW. Direction from a qualified doctor, nurse, paramedic, or EMT may be different. Follow the professional’s directions if communication with them is available. Again, seek out training in this area by competent medical professionals. I hope you are never in a situation where you need to use this info, but if you are, you could save someone’s life.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Remember Beirut

Remember the Beirut bombing! On 23rd of October 1983 305 servicemen of the U.S. and France, and civilians, were killed when a vehicle with a 21,000 pound TNT bomb ran into their barracks in Beirut, Lebanon.
We need to remember these cowardly acts and the brave men and women who defend us!

This incident has been used to train and secure U.S. military and civilian members for years. At least their senseless sacrifice was not in vain.

Pray for the families of those who lost loved ones and for our current military members and first responders in harms way! They need our support and prayers.

Godspeed brothers and sisters!

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Protecting The Prophet and The Brethren

Often those who protect another are referred to as bodyguards. Even in an official publication such as History of the Church, there are a few brethren listed as Joseph Smith’s bodyguards.
After the death of Joseph Smith the Church began its move to the Salt Lake valley. The need for a body guard started to diminish as Brigham Young passed away in 1877. The civil war had been over for about 10 years and the “wild west” was calming down as the push west was progressing. Within about 20 years the wild west would be history and persecution was so much less in Utah.
In 1973 Larry Mullins was asked to serve as the bodyguard to the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One of the conditions was that he was not allowed to tell anyone but his wife. At that time it was thought that the fact that security would be needed was too upsetting for the average member of the church. Up until 1974, the leaders of the Church evidently did not feel a strong impression that any kind of security was needed; but sometime during that year, the Spirit spoke loud and clear that there was now a pressing need that was real and serious.
I would like to recognize these unsung heroes who work so hard to keep our Prophets and Apostles safe and secure. I have a good friend who serves with Church Security and this department has expanded over the years. The Church Security department originally trained with Secret Service agents and their training reflects similar operations. As per any security agency or department, specifics of operations are never discussed. I’ve learned how they operate through my friend and I can say, they are well versed in current security and executive protection ideas and trends.
This list is not official and is compiled by very loose standards. So I’m sure there are numerous errors. I just wanted to recognize these who have served.
The Book of the Law of the Lord is a special book that functioned as a combination journal for Joseph, copy book for revelations and a tithing record. Members whose names appeared in this book were considered worthy to enter the temple.
One of my heroes, Orrin Porter Rockwell
In the blessing, Joseph named several men, including
Erastus Derby
John D. Parker
Amasa Lyman
Wilson Law
Henry G. Sherwood
Joseph B. Nobles
Among others, who one could say acted as bodyguards or supported the prophet while he was in hiding.
History of the Church, Vol. 7
Alpheus Cutler (capt.)
Amos C. Hodge
James Allred
Thomas Grover
Reynolds Cahoon
Shadrack Roundy
John Snyder
Christian Kreymer
Lewis D. Wilson
William Marks
James Emmet
John L. Butler
Samuel H. Smith
Edward Hunter, herald and armor bearer
Mosiah Hancock
One of the these above brethren are my Great (4) Grandfather
After 1973:
Larry Mullins
David Sayer
Richard Bretzing (One of my son’s former mission President)
J. Martell Bird
Gregory Dunn
Jeff Berrett
Greg Rampton
Todd Richens
Kenneth Porter
Ronald D. Francis
Hal A. Ludlow
Kevin Richardson
Claron E. Swenson

We honor those who protect and stay in the background. Normally, you wouldn’t even know they are there constantly watching and preparing. LDS Gunsite salutes you and thanks you for your selfless service.

The Prophet once asked the members of the Legion if they were not all his boys, and they shouted "Yes!" Mosiah Hancock, one of his bodyguards stood on the rail of the fence in front of the Mansion. The Prophet said, "Brethren, the Lord Almighty has this day revealed to me something I never comprehended before! That is—I have friends who have at a respectful distance been ready to ward off the blows of the adversary.” He brought his hand down on Mosiah’s head, “while others have pretended to be my friends, have crept into my bosom, and have become vipers—my most deadly enemies. I wish you to be obedient to these true men as you have promised. ARE YOU WILLING TO DIE FOR ME?" "Yes!" was the shout. "You have said you are willing to die for me—." Then he drew his sword and cried, "I WILL DIE FOR YOU! If this people cannot have their rights, my blood shall run upon the ground like water."

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Words To Live By: Code Of Conduct

When I served in the military I had to memorize the code of conduct. This supposed to be a code that helps military members conduct their lives. It states:

Code of Conduct for Members of the United States Armed Forces
1. I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the members of my command while they still have the means to resist.
3. If I am captured I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.
4. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
5. When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause.
6. I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America.
I’ve thought about those “rules” of that code and how each of us need our own code of conduct. Actually we have one, whether we recognize it or have written them down or not. I was a fan of the TV show NCIS and I enjoyed the part of Gibbs played by Mark Harmon. Gibbs had his own rules he tried to live by. They are:
Gibbs’ Rules
Rule No. 1 – Never let suspects stay together.
Rule No. 1 – Never screw (over) your partner.
Rule No. 2 – Always wear gloves at a crime scene.
Rule No. 3 – Don’t believe what you’re told. Double check.
Rule No. 3 – Never be unreachable.
Rule No. 4 – If you have a secret, the best thing is to keep it to yourself. The second-best is to tell one other person is you must. There is no this best.
Rule No. 5 – You don’t waste good.
Rule No. 6 – Never say you’re sorry. It’s a sign of weakness.
Rule No. 7 – Always be specific when you lie.
Rule No. 8 – Never take anything for granted.
Rule No. 9 – Never go anywhere without a knife.
Rule No. 10 – Never get personally involved in a case.
Rule No. 11 – When the job is done, walk away.
Rule No. 12 – Never date a co-worker.
Rule No. 13 – Never, ever involve a lawyer.
Rule No. 14 – Bend the line, don’t break it.
Rule No. 15 – Always work as a team.
Rule No. 16 – If someone things that have the upper hand, break it.
Rule No. 18 – It’s better to seek forgiveness than ask permission.
Rule No. 20 – Always look under.
Rule No. 22 – Never, ever bother Gibbs in interrogation.
Rule No. 23 – Never mess with a Marine’s coffee… If you want to live.
Rule No. 27 – There are two ways to follow someone. First way, they never notice you. Second way, they only notice you.
Rule No. 28 – If you need help, ask!
Rule No. 35 – Always watch the watchers.
Rule No. 36 – If you feel like you are being played, you probably are.
Rule No. 38 – Your case, your lead.
Rule No. 39 – There is no such thing as coincidence.
Rule No. 40 – If it seems someone is out to get you, they are.
Rule No. 42 – Never accept an apology from someone who just sucker-punched you.
Rule No. 44 – First things first, hide the women and children.
Rule No. 45 – Clean up the mess you leave behind; never leave behind loose ends.

I liked the idea of coming up with your own code of conduct years ago and so I developed my own. They are:

1. God, Family, Country (In that order)
2. Family should never fight alone
3. Service and charity never fails
4. Avoid debt like you would a disease
5. Ain’t no one happy, unless Momma’s happy
6. Never give up if the task is just
7. Work smarter, not harder
8. Trust but verify
9. A soldier’s way saves the day
10. Distraction kills
11. Don’t leave home without a knife or a gun
12. Be hard to offend and anger.
These rules may be amended as I learn!
I call these my “Rules of engagement”. As we engage in life we need some type of rules to keep us steady and on track. I encourage all you sheep dogs, law enforcement, and military members out there to think about your own lives and come up with your own rules of engagement.

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

EDC and Your Wallet

Chances are your wallet is bursting with cards. Credit cards, reward cards, and cards from businesses you rarely use. They take up space, and can be difficult to quickly find in a cluttered wallet. “Seinfeld” character George Costanza memorably had a wallet he could barely close. While sitting he began tucking napkins under his other back pocket, so that he wasn’t sitting at an angle.
Jerry:
Your back hurts because of your wallet. It's huge.
George Costanza:
This isn't just my wallet. It's an organizer, a memory and an old friend.
Jerry:
Well, your friend is morbidly obese.
George Costanza:
Well, at least I don't carry a purse.
Jerry:
It's not a purse, it's European.
I know that it is not Spring, but is it time to “spring clean” your wallet? Now is a great time to make a fresh start and do some long overdue spring cleaning, even in your EDC. A great place to start is with the wallet in your pocket: it's one of those things in your carry that can really get out of hand. To keep your wallet trim and tidy, just follow a few of these simple steps.
Get rid of those business cards, Walmart receipts, and ticket stubs. Snap photos of things you want to remember on your phone for reference, then physically clear them out from your wallet. It's a quick and easy way to start trimming your wallet down. It might also be a good time to use up those gift cards or give them a new home in your sock drawer.
Do you really need those loyalty club cards or key fobs? If you actually use them leave them in. If you only use them once in a while keep them at home until you plan to actually use them. This will take some planning on your part. If you have a wallet app then you can record them this way or put your membership cards on your phone. If you really need something there may be a key chain version you can carry.
I carry 2 bank cards. One is my debit card and the other a credit card. I very rarely use the credit card but I like to have it for those times when I may need it and it has happened a few times. But otherwise I only carry two. Take a hard look at your bank cards and try to keep them down to just the few you use the most.
Cash and coins are probably the most difficult essentials to carry, but they're essential nonetheless. With so many cash-only establishments out there, carrying cash can be a necessary evil. Instead of walking around with a wad of small bills, keep it to a minimum with a bigger bill you'd carry most of the time and just break it when necessary. I know in the prepping world cash is king. For privacy cash does not leave a paper trail.
One way to make all of this easier is to carry a wallet that leans towards minimalism by design. Not only does a minimalist wallet take up less pocket space overall, it also discourages hoarding cards and receipts and such. Without a bunch of dedicated card slots, there's no temptation to keep them filled with cards you won't use.
There are many preparedness items you can carry in a wallet. There are “credit card” multi-tools, knives, and even sewing kits. I carry a couple of Band-aids in my wallet that I have used many, many times. I also carry important phone numbers that I may need if my phone goes out.
Everyone has different skills and needs. Your wallet will be different from anyone else. There are many tactical wallets out there to choose from. Most are reasonable in price but some are quite expensive so buyer beware. But consider your wallet carefully because you take it with you everywhere!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

We Have To Be Better Than Them

When it comes to defense the lyric to a song by the band Dire Straits may apply.
These mist covered mountains
Are a home now for me
But my home is the lowlands
And always will be
Someday you'll return to
Your valleys and your farms
And you'll no longer burn to be
Brothers in arms

Through these fields of destruction
Baptisms of fire
I've witnessed your suffering
As the battle raged higher
And though they did hurt me so bad
In the fear and alarm
You did not desert me
My brothers in arms

There's so many different worlds
So many different suns
And we have just one world
But we live in different ones

Now the sun's gone to hell and
The moon's riding high
Let me bid you farewell
Every man has to die
But it's written in the starlight
And every line in your palm
We are fools to make war
On our brothers in arms
Mark Knopfler really hit the nail on the head. This song says to me that battle creates bonds that are not broken. I served with guys I haven’t seen in some time, yet I know if I needed their help they would move heaven and earth to be there for me. And the same goes for me, for them. There is a bond that is struck with sharing a life and death situation that is hard to break. In combat you must depend on the guy next to you to save you or defend you.
In sharing this bond with these guys, I have come to become a little cold to death and killing. I think as a human thrust into a situation where you must kill or be killed, you have to be calloused to survive the unthinkable of killing another human being. I know those who are still in therapy for something that happened over 30 years ago. It affects you and so it is something to be avoided.
So, how do you defend yourself and your family, and remain a good, and decent human being? I’ve learned to do this through scripture. Alma 44:2, 5
2 Behold, we have not come out to battle against you that we might shed your blood for power; neither do we desire to bring any one to the yoke of bondage. But this is the very cause for which ye have come against us; yea, and ye are angry with us because of our religion.
5 And now, Zerahemnah, I command you, in the name of that all-powerful God, who has strengthened our arms that we have gained power over you, by our faith, by our religion, and by our rites of worship, and by our church, and by the sacred support which we owe to our wives and our children, by that liberty which binds us to our lands and our country; yea, and also by the maintenance of the sacred word of God, to which we owe all our happiness; and by all that is most dear unto us—
Alma 46:12, 13, 20
12 And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it—In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.
13 And he fastened on his head-plate, and his breastplate, and his shields, and girded on his armor about his loins; and he took the pole, which had on the end thereof his rent coat, (and he called it the title of liberty) and he bowed himself to the earth, and he prayed mightily unto his God for the blessings of liberty to rest upon his brethren, so long as there should a band of Christians remain to possess the land—
20 Behold, whosoever will maintain this title upon the land, let them come forth in the strength of the Lord, and enter into a covenant that they will maintain their rights, and their religion, that the Lord God may bless them.
This is how we justify carrying a weapon. This is how I have answered those who say I am not Christian if I am willing to do violence. This is the kind of man I strive to be. As was Moroni.
Some would say “But you are not fighting for liberty. You are not at war.” I would beg to differ. Crime and terrorism deprives us of our liberty and our God given rights. When we defend ourselves against crime and terrorism we are defending our liberty.
In Psalm 82:4 it says that we are to “Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.” In Nehemiah 4:14 we are told to “…fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses.” These passages show us that we are required by biblical principles to defend innocent life, be it our families or merely the “weak and needy”.

1 Timothy 5:8 states that “…if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel” What greater provision is there than the provision for the defense and safety of our loved ones?

Not only is an armed response to life threatening evil condoned in scripture, but skill at arms is presented in a positive light. We are expected to have the tools and to acquire the skills needed to fulfill our obligation in protecting innocents from the evil that is loose in the world. This is clearly demonstrated in Psalm 144:1 “Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war and my fingers to fight” and again in Psalm 18:34 “He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.”.

Luke 11:21-22 tells us that “When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armor wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.” This passage of scripture not only allows specifically for armed defense, but serves as a model for the Castle Doctrine or perhaps the “Palace doctrine?”

I want to be clear at this point that I only advocate the use of deadly force for the preservation of innocent life. I stress this strongly when I have taught classes. I have never had a car that was worth a human life, and I don’t think there is enough money to kill over. I know for a fact that the finest of worldly possessions does not have the value of the basest of human lives. I would not use deadly force in defense of property, but I would not hesitate to use it to save the lives of my children or anybody else’s children, from a person of evil intent. Make no mistake, those people are out there these days, in droves.
I write this article to help those of you who have served in a combat role, served in law enforcement, or have had defend yourself and others in a civilian role and their families. But also for all of the above who train. When you get right down to it, we are training to kill or at least to do violence. Hopefully, we train to be able to make wise decisions when to not shoot, and how to avoid. Our lives should be dedicated to avoidance, deterrence, and de-escalation. This is what I call the concealed carry ADD. Being aware of where you are and what’s going on can give you a good heads up to avoid. If you are successful at avoidance then your need to judge when to draw, or when to shoot will be eliminated. In your training make sure you get some good ADD training.
If we are to truly protect our families and ourselves, we will learn controlled violence. Without it I’m not sure what will stop a determined terrorist or criminal. Control is the key. We have to be better than they are to protect. We have to be better than them.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn

Overwatch: Drill Of The Month For October

Oct 2018

Transition Drill 3 – 3 – 1 (carbine and pistol, 6 / 1 rounds) Pat McNamara IPSC target at 10 yards. Two rifle mags with three rounds, loaded pistol holstered. On signal: -3 rounds from carbine -Reload -3 rounds from carbine -Transition to pistol and fire 1 round Keep all rounds in A zone for “GO” and use rifle safety during reloads.

From Pat McNamara
Founder of TMACS, Inc
http://www.tmacsinc.com/index.html


See “Overwatch: Drill of the Month” page for more drills

Winning A Fight For Your Life!

How do I win a fight for my life?


Be Ready to Inflict ‘Unspeakable Violence’
Some die because they didn’t use the appropriate amount of force early on. Know what your state laws say about when you can use deadly force so you can act with confidence without hesitation. You shouldn’t have to think about what’s permissible or whether you’ll get sued. That just puts you farther behind the curve. Remember the importance of retreat if possible. Be prepared to go in an instant from being calm to inflicting unspeakable violence on those who would take your life...and then back to calm again. Commit mentally and physically to doing whatever is necessary — with hyper intensity — to prevail. You won’t have time to think or warm up. You have to have that subconscious willingness to hurt dangerous people right there, and turn it on like a switch. As you would if someone was trying to snatch your child or someone else you love from you.
You can condition yourself for that through stress-inoculation scenario training. The more you train under stress, the less stress you’ll feel when it’s real. Don’t depend on adrenalin to energize you and get you through a crisis. It may drain your strength instead. When gunfire starts, there are those who just shut down. They couldn’t even call 911. They thought they were ready for a gunfight, but they weren’t.

Mentally Rehearse
Integrate hours of mental imagery into your training regimen. I’ve had people ask me, ‘Did it bother you to shoot the enemy?’ And I say, ‘No, because I’d already done it in my mind thousands of times.’

Your mindset to win has to be constantly honed or you’ll lose it. Mental rehearsal is one way to hone it. Imagine yourself confronting and defeating every kind of challenge you can conjure up. Imagine yourself getting shot and how you’ll react. Don’t just imagine the stereotypical bad guys. The assailant you have to kill may look a lot like you. They’re not always gangbangers or hardened felons. Anybody at any time may try to hurt you.

Just be certain that in real life you can employ the skills you imagine yourself using to win in your mental scenarios. If candidly you have doubts, then that should identify your training challenges. In a crisis you will go as far as your level of training.

Stack the deck. In most cases, moments arise when you can gain the upper hand. But these windows of opportunity open and close quickly, you have to be ready to go. Be watchful and be ready. Act decisively. You may not get another chance.

Don’t be gear-dependent
Be prepared for any weapon to fail or not get the results you want. A failure may surprise you, but it shouldn’t shut you down. Know the immediate action that may fix the problem. Drill that over and over and over, so your hands can go through the manipulations subconsciously while your eyes and mind are concentrating on the threat. In the military, immediate action drills were constant. “Slap, rack, and bang.”

My wife always says to me and our kids, “Always have a Plan B. Or C, D, E, F!” Don’t get stuck in a Plan A that isn’t working. Be your own weapon. If you train in multiple skills, what won’t fail you is you. But you have to have some training. You can’t draw from an empty well.

Be Prepared
Being trained is a big part of winning a fight. It doesn’t have to be “Professional grade Ninja Special Forces military law enforcement tier 3 number one Recondo” training. Learning simple tactics like shooting from cover, shooting and moving, reloading on the move, and others, will help you to start your attackers OODA loop over and over again. A famed football coach said:
“It’s not the will to win but the willingness to prepare to win that makes the difference.”
Being honest about your skills and knowing where your weaknesses are will help to you to prepare in areas where you are weak.
I was teaching a group of Sheriffs’ deputies for their annual qualifying requirement when a young, cocky, deputy told me he couldn’t see the point of qualifying every year. I told him that one way to ensure a trained force was to test their qualifications annually. With this requirement I could tell who has been practicing and who has not. He challenged my expertise in this so I had him shoot the first round. Then I had him lay down and do it. Then I had him shoot from beside a trash can. He did pretty bad. He balked at my methods saying that they were never tested like that before. I asked him if he thought a criminal was going to be standing 15 feet away while he stood in a Weaver stance and shot the scumbag? He said obviously no. I asked him if he thought he could take out an attacker if he could not qualify with his course of fire? I told him this kind of shooting only tells me if you can do the bare minimum. If you can pass this qualification then you would have the basic skill to shoot. After that, tactical shooting was his responsibility to practice. My job was to test his basic skill and the rest was up to him.
Preparing with mastering the basics is important before you can shoot from all kinds of crazy positions that you may be required to shoot from in a real life scenario.
Work on things you know you’re not good at.

Staying in shape
This is a sensitive subject. Americans are not very fit as a rule. I speak from my own roundness. Staying in the best shape you can always means exercising and eating right. Being able to move and out maneuver your attacker is another way you can stack the deck in your favor.

Never give up
No matter what your situation keep fighting. If you’re shot keep going. As long as you’re conscious keep going. If you can only fight with one hand keep fighting. Some people quit when they are not even out of the fight. I saw a guy get hit twice in his chest plate. The plate completely stopped the bullets but the guy was on the ground and out of the fight. It took someone screaming at him “You’re all right! Get up and shoot!” before he realized he was fine and could keep going. Go through this in your head. Never give up! Don’t stop! Stay in the fight!

Learn medical aid

I carry a first aid kit in every vehicle I own. In addition, I have a homemade “trauma kit” for treating gunshot wounds specifically. I was trained in the military how to treat gunshot wounds. Seek out this training and learn self-aid. Do you know how to use a tourniquet? Do you have experience with a clotting agent? Do you know how they work? Chest seals can save lives. Shooting someone because they are threat is fine but if you also get help for them or do first aid it will go a long way in court and in your own life. Killing another human is not very fun. It’s something you will have to deal with the rest of your life no matter that it was self-defense or combat. If I could avoid that by simple first aid treatment I would do what it takes to make that happen.

Don’t let an attacker win from the grave
If you end up in the hospital from injuries or being shot, work with all your might to recover. Don’t let your attacker keep you down. The same goes for terrorism. If you successfully fought of an attack and the attacker ran off, don’t let that terrifying experience change you. The criminal wins if you are paranoid or afraid. Being vigilant is not being afraid. Being prepared is not being paranoid. Don’t let the scumbag win!

Winning a fight is always a challenge. Since we are not on the offensive we can’t use surprise or ambush. But we can make sure no attacker can use those things either. Mindset and envisioning situations is a big part of that win. Training and preparedness is the other part. Between these things you too can end up the winner of a gunfight!

Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn