tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56860593503139657842024-03-06T23:27:08.517-06:00LDS Gunsite(LDS stands for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This is not an official site of the Church)
The only site of it's kind on the web!
Your home for everything gun, defense/security and preparedness related with a perspective of a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints!
We were Preppers when they were called Nuts!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger953125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-44057756954045713302023-09-20T20:39:00.007-05:002023-09-20T20:39:50.980-05:00Promote Safety and Smart ShootingI was at the range the other day. I seem to start a lot of articles this way, don’t I? The range I frequent is an outdoor range. It has several “bays” at different distances. Each bay has room for about 4 to 6 people so there is a lot of room. I was at a 25 yard bay next to a wide 50 yard bay that is also suited to shotguns. As the group of shooters drove up to the bay next to mine I watched as several young women in their 20’s got out with 2 20 something guys. I thought “Here it goes again!” I’ve watched this many times before. A couple of “gun guys” invite several ladies to go shooting. They make themselves out to be Jerry Miculek when in reality they own some guns but shoot a few times a year. They may have some experience, but it’s limited.
So they all get out and start in. To their credit I hear a basic safety briefing happen. For some of these girls it was too little. They start shooting some rifles. That goes well. Then they bring out the shotguns. I am down range in my bay with a large mound of dirt and some distance between us when I hear the first blast. I get rained on with bird shot. This tells me that their aim is not too good. Then I see it out of the corner of my eye. They hand a petite girl a long 12 gage. I watch as she hesitates with the weight of the gun. Then she shoots it and loses control of the weapon while falling down. Everyone laughs and I walk over. I try not to sound too much like their fathers, but I lay into the guys for being so stupid and dangerous. They show great respect and apologize profusely, giving great credit to their mother’s teaching.
This was not the worst I’ve seen. I almost got shot with a .45 1911 Colt one time when another girl given a powerful handgun by some idiot guy, shot the gun and lost control of it. Without taking her finger off the trigger the gun floated all over the range until it was pointed my way and went off. I was not a happy man and even threatened to call the police on a stupid boyfriend who thought it would be fun to watch his pretty girlfriend shoot a gigantic gun. Had she not been crying and he been so apologetic I would have zip-tied them and left them for the police to pick up.
I’ve seen it happen with big guns and with little guns. I really don’t blame the inexperienced one.
In September 2014 a 9 year old from New Jersey shot her instructor with a fully automatic Uzi. There are many that say this story and video are propaganda. If it is a real incident then I have lots of questions about this “instructor”. This is a well-known incident and of course anti-gun proponents jump on this.
If you own a gun. If you want to teach someone to shoot, please get a competent instructor. Don’t try and create a You tube video that you and other fellow idiots think is funny. It’s not funny to have someone do a dangerous thing when you are right there to teach them correctly. It’s not funny to give someone a bad experience with guns.
I don’t know what brings people to do this. They give all of us such a bad name. I’m just not sure what would bring someone to post a video of these atrocities. As near as I can tell it has to do with their own inexperience, immaturity, and lack of discipline and sense. Please, I beg of you, stop this nonsense!
I contrast that with my nephew. He takes anyone to the range, provides their ammunition, gun, safety gear, and will give them a basic safety and shooting class. He has even given free CCW classes many times. He encourages shooting and learning the right way. He is a law enforcement instructor and has been a deputy for many years. He is dedicated to helping people to have a safe, good, positive experience with firearms.
A few years ago I was asked by a co worker to help him with his wife. The co worker wanted to get a gun and she was against it. She was a little fearful even though he had been in the military for several years and had a good knowledge of weapons. I had them both meet me at the range the next week. It was a good day weather-wise and a good day to shoot. The range was empty so there were no distractions. After I met them at the range my friend introduced me to his wife. We sat at the picnic table there and had a chat. I asked her about her experience with firearms if she had any. She said she had grown up around guns with her Dad and brothers hunting a lot. When she showed an interest as a teen-ager her brothers took her out and had her shoot some fairly heavy caliber guns and a 12 guage. It scared her and hurt her shoulder and she wanted nothing more to do with a gun. Her brothers teased her and made fun of her and that was it. Brothers can be jerks sometimes can’t they? We talked a little more and I told her about my experience teaching firearms in the military and told an amusing story of kicking an Air Force Major off of my range one time. I told her what I wanted to do to show her safety and how to have fun with a gun. We talked about safety and the rules in some detail and the reasons behind the rules. I told her exactly what I wanted her to shoot, what it would feel like and promised her she would want to keep shooting after our lesson. After talking about how guns generally work, and how to shoot with sights, we began. We started with a Ruger 10-22. I assured her I would be right next to her and she would not mind the noise, or recoil of a .22 long rifle round. She shot, quite successfully and I then asked if she wanted to try something else. She then shot a .22 handgun. After that she shot a .25, a .380, a 9mm, a .357 and a .45 ACP. Then she shot a 9mm rifle, a AR in .223, and a .308. Each time I told her clearly she did not have to shoot if she didn’t want to. I told her exactly what the increased noise and recoil would be. She even shot a .410 shotgun and the 12 gauge she was so afraid of. When we took a break we talked about her experiences with each caliber. She liked the .22 rifle and pistol. She liked the 9mm pistol and rifle. She liked the AR. She still didn’t care for shotguns.
She then shot with her favorite calibers and thoroughly enjoyed it. She was not under any pressure and did very well in the area of accuracy. When we were done we sat and talked again. She had a different view of guns and did not have any of her fears and bias’s anymore. She wasn’t afraid of the shotguns, but just didn’t prefer them. In the end, after a few weeks my friend told me that not only did they buy a gun, but she wanted one too! I reminded them of storage safety because they have children. They had aleady purchased a safe and were taking a class together. She had asked if I would teach her teen-aged daughter the same way I taught her. So instead of another “casualty” of the range, we have a family that wants to be safe, and to learn the right way to use their firearms. I want more Americans armed, safe, and trained, not less.
We as gun people, or even if we are not into guns, should promote healthy, safe gun learning if we are to beat the anti-gun people and keep our right to keep and bear arms.
Let’s be smart about this and each do our part to keep America safer and more secure.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-78998732275408880192023-09-11T21:10:00.003-05:002023-09-11T21:10:35.353-05:00Our Flag, Patriotism, and Remembering The other day I was at work a little late. That meant I left work later than usual. I work on a federal installation that is run mostly by the military. That means that every morning and every night the flag is raised and lowered. If you have ever spent much time on any military base you will know that for a few minutes each day, tribute is given to our nation and to its flag. Traffic stops, and the vehicle occupants sit quietly to pay respect. Where ever people are walking, they stop, face toward the main flag pole and salute or stand reverently with their hand over their heart. I experienced this for the millionth time that evening. While I was sitting in my car, I thought that nowhere else that I know of does everything stop to recognize and revere “Old Glory” and this great country. It made me proud to be an American!
How many Americans really understand the meaning of this symbol of our liberties and freedom? How many Americans know how to treat this symbol?
We are going to give you a brief lesson on how to treat the flag.
Flag Etiquette and 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 speakers, 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.
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, if displayed, otherwise to the music.
The Flag in Mourning: To place the flag at half staff, hoist it to the peak for an instant and lower it to a position half way between the top and bottom of the staff. The flag is to be raised again to the peak for a moment before it is lowered. On Memorial Day the flag is displayed at half staff until noon and at full staff from noon to sunset.
The flag is to be flown at half staff in mourning for designated, principal government leaders and upon presidential or gubernatorial order.
When used to cover a casket, the flag should be placed with the union at the head and over the left shoulder. It should not be lowered into the grave.
These are most of what you need to know. I also think that most people should know how to fold a flag properly but this won’t be covered here.
Several years ago my wife taught me a great lesson. She was concerned about a faded, ragged flag being flown over a Wendy's restaurant. After several calls to the management and trying to convey her feelings over an appropriate symbol being flown, she got her desired results. They replaced the flag. Now, this is really not a rant against Wendy's restaurants, they are fine businesses. But this is typical of Americans not thinking, or maybe not caring, about our wonderful flag. We must be vigilant, but we must be diplomatic. Not everyone will harbor the same passion over this great symbol. The best thing is to be firm, but to try to teach patriotism. Remember, we are a melting pot. Not everyone who is a citizen has grown up being taught patriotism.
Twenty-two years ago today I was working on an Air Force base. I, like many of you, watched in horror as war was brought to our glorious Republic. I’ll never forget how fast our aircraft got out of the sky. We were in the highest alert mode I’d ever been in other than an exercise. I also remember the patriotism as most Americans came together and grieved together. It is scandalous to me that even our political leaders felt we needed to go to war to take care of this problem, yet many of them changed their views and some even lied about what they had supported. Even worse to me, a veteran, is the fact that some politicians think that Washington DC had so much to do with the taking out of the mastermind of 9/11. I question anything that does not give credit where it is due. The US military has done many thankless acts in its long history but regardless of what has happened in Washington or in wars, they still give reverence to our symbol. Old glory. The grand old girl. Stars and stripes. I would hope that after twenty-two years we can still remember.
This is a personal experience from my journal coming out of a particularly long few days of combat:
“As the C-130 took off I was able to glance out the starboard door and I saw the buildings go by. I had a “Frances Scott Key” experience. As we roared down the runway toward safety, we were taking on fire. I saw that the field flag was still waving in the wind. That image of a strong USA and what that symbol means to so many is embedded in my soul. My Grandfather fought under that flag in WWI. My father fought under that flag in WW2. So that image out the door of that C130 is what I see when I think of or see Old Glory.”
Please. Always remember!
Remember 9-11! Remember Benghazi 2012!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-81854934246570622302023-09-11T21:02:00.005-05:002023-09-11T21:02:38.347-05:00Defending Free SpeechI have not been the kind of person who varnishes anything. Sometimes I am brutely honest. I don’t set out to insult or offend anyone; I just don’t believe in beating around the bush.
The First Amendment states, in relevant part, that:
“Congress shall make no law...abridging freedom of speech.”
Freedom of speech includes the right:
• Not to speak (specifically, the right not to salute the flag).
West Virginia Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943).
• Of students to wear black armbands to school to protest a war (“Students do not shed their constitutional rights at the schoolhouse gate.”).
Tinker v. Des Moines, 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
• To use certain offensive words and phrases to convey political messages.
Cohen v. California, 403 U.S. 15 (1971).
• To contribute money (under certain circumstances) to political campaigns.
Buckley v. Valeo, 424 U.S. 1 (1976).
• To advertise commercial products and professional services (with some restrictions).
Virginia Board of Pharmacy v. Virginia Consumer Council, 425 U.S. 748 (1976); Bates v. State Bar of Arizona, 433 U.S. 350 (1977).
• To engage in symbolic speech, (e.g., burning the flag in protest).
Texas v. Johnson, 491 U.S. 397 (1989); United States v. Eichman, 496 U.S. 310 (1990).
Freedom of speech does not include the right:
• To incite imminent lawless action.
Brandenburg v. Ohio, 395 U.S. 444 (1969).
• To make or distribute obscene materials.
Roth v. United States, 354 U.S. 476 (1957).
• To burn draft cards as an anti-war protest.
United States v. O’Brien, 391 U.S. 367 (1968).
• To permit students to print articles in a school newspaper over the objections of the school administration.
Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
• Of students to make an obscene speech at a school-sponsored event.
Bethel School District #43 v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
• Of students to advocate illegal drug use at a school-sponsored event.
Morse v. Frederick, __ U.S. __ (2007).
Disclaimer: These resources are created by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts for use in educational activities only. They may not reflect the current state of the law, and are not intended to provide legal advice, guidance on litigation, or commentary on legislation.
These days there is something they try to call “hate speech”.
The UN says this after their definition.
“However, to date there is no universal definition of hate speech under international human rights law. The concept is still under discussion, especially in relation to freedom of opinion and expression, non-discrimination and equality.” UN
Even the UN can’t figure out what hate speech is.
In the United States much of what falls under the category of "hate speech" is constitutionally protected. The United States does not have hate speech laws, since the U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that laws criminalizing hate speech violate the guarantee to freedom of speech contained in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Yes, that pesky document that under pins all our laws. So, when you hear the term “hate speech”, know that most of that is just rhetoric. Also, when you hear that Facebook, Google, Twitter, YouTube, and Microsoft have joined other countries in their woke “hate speech” code of conduct that it is completely un-American. These companies exist because of this country. Their success is because they had the freedom that this country affords them. But ignoring the constitution is their choice. It’s really amazing that left-leaning idiots that run these businesses don’t want free speech. I guess that’s why Elon Musk bought Twitter. Maybe it will change. Those other left leaning companies prefer their own brand of censorship. I’m not sure who the arrogant Einstein is who thinks they know hate speech and they can best identify it. It’s like fact checking. Who is fact checking the fact checkers?
I don’t like porn. I think it’s corrosive to society. But those that want to produce it and view it are welcome to rot their brains. Obviously, kids and others should be protected from it, and I think they are generally. This kind of freedom is protected by our constitution. So are those who wish to share their religious ideas with others. All this is free speech. There are those who don’t want this. There are those who don’t want negative ideas out there. There are those who don’t want any ideas or speech that goes against what they deem as good and correct.
Many of these types are also into “wokeism”. They are also bent on being politically correct and not offending anyone.
I do not want to offend anyone. I do not set out to do this. But I also know that what I say and how I say it sometimes may offend others. There are those who are soft and meek. This is not a bad thing, but it’s hard to exist in this world by being afraid and offended by everything, especially words. I do not advocate violent or vulgar speech. But I do talk plainly. It’s also important to know that there is evil in this world and that often it’s hard to fight against evil without violence. I know that the only real way to save this world is with love, understanding, and peace. The problem is that evil is not interested in love and peace. Evil often resorts to violence. More time than not, violence needs to be dealt with, with violence. It’s impossible to defend from violence without more violence. I know that is not Christ-like and it is no remedy. If good doesn’t commit violence to defend, then evil will take good out and there will be nothing left but evil.
When I was thrust into a combat situation, we were defending ourselves. We never had the opportunity to go on the offensive. But later after we had left, the Army came in with the offensive to take out the enemy. What that violence did was stop the violence of the enemy.
When I was a child, I learned a rhyme. “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Words can be powerful, but they can hurt us as much as we allow them to.
Free speech is extremely important. Being resilient against words intended to hurt is a sign of maturity and mental strength. We may not like the words that are used, but we should defend the right of those that use speech whether we agree with their expression or not.
Hate speech is like assault weapon. It is a made-up phrase that is not defined. It means different things to different people.
Free speech is defined. It is defined by the Constitution, and laws. We should do all we can to protect it and to strengthen it.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-85866254879189323892023-09-05T20:37:00.006-05:002023-09-05T20:37:54.559-05:00Storing Gasoline or Diesel Fuel: Nothing Goes Without The Hose!Gasoline storage
With Hurricanes pounding the East coast I thought I’d check on my generator. It was fine and I cranked it up and ran it for a while. I then thought about my supply of fuel. I’m sure many people don’t store much fuel. They may have a 5 gallon can or maybe even two for weed-eaters and lawnmowers. I have done a lot of research into gasoline storage because I feel I need 100 gallons or so for my generator and other equipment to be worth anything to me. If my generator will only run for 1 or 2 tanks, I’m not sure it was worth the investment. Not only that, gasoline is a very valuable commodity and can be used for a multitude of applications. May I say at the beginning of this blog, ensure that you learn and practice safe handling of all fuel products. Also, learn the laws of storing fuel where you live. Know the hazards of handling fuel and the personal protection equipment you should use. Learn about grounding and static electricity. Learn all these things BEFORE you start to store fuel. Fuel is dangerous and can cause health problems with prolonged exposure. All companies will provide a material safety data sheet (MSDS) on their products. You can access these via the internet. I would suggest you do this so that you have the information you need to responsibly handle and store fuel.
As they say in real estate, the 3 most important things are location, location, location. The same goes for safely storing fuel. Make sure there is plenty of ventilation wherever you decide to store fuel. Also, ensure there is no flame near this storage. A pilot light for a water heater located in a garage would make that location dangerous. Near barbeque grills or patio-type fire places would obviously be off limits. In a shed not attached to your home would be good as long as there is ventilation. Fuel fumes are notorious for hanging around enclosed areas. Plastic or poly-anything containers are permeable and eventually you may lose fuel. Not necessarily to leaks, but just by the fuel evaporating. Metal containers are better, but they have their drawbacks. They can rust and depending on their quality, leak. Also, metal conducts electricity as poly ethylene does not. But, plastic does tend to get promote static electricity. You can ground a poly drum by putting a ground wire inside the drum through the top. Simply put a hole in the top, caulk around the wire, and connect it to a ground rod pounded into the ground. Ensure the ground wire goes all the way to the bottom of the drum. This will dissipate any static that may build up. Simply ground yourself (touch the rod) whenever you work with that drum. Some will advise against plastic drum storage but my experience is that you can use them safely and that the loss is minimal. There are 3 precautions that will delay deterioration of gasoline:
1. Fill containers about 95% full.
2. Cap containers tightly.
3. Store containers out of direct sunlight where the temperature stays below 80 degrees F most of the time.
The first 2 actions reduce evaporation of gas during storage and reduce exposure to air and water. The 5% air space allows room for gas to expand if temperatures rise. I have stored gasoline successfully for up to 4 years stabilized. I stabilize all my fuel because I never know when I will use it. I’ve never used anything but Sta-Bil only because that’s all I’ve found available where I live. So I have no experience with anything else but I’d like to try Pri-G because of the claims of the product. I have also worked in the fuel industry for many years and know fuel characteristics. Fuel is subject to the supplier standards, carrier tanks, and retail tanks. Any one of these can add contaminants in your fuel. Filtering is imperative. If you use a drum pump you can install an in-line fuel filter to filter out contaminants. And finally, I put a small micron screen in the fill spout of whatever I am filling up. I will also check for water with water-finding paste on occasion. I keep my drums covered and tightly sealed to combat moisture. Water is heavier than fuel so it will fall to the lowest point of the container the fuel is in. It can be drained or pumped out.
Storing fuel can make a large difference in a survival situation. There is one more aspect I’d like to address concerning fuel storage. That is security. If your tank, drums, or containers are stored away from your home as they should be, are they secured? They should be secured from thieves and for safety. That could be a lock on the building they are stored in, or a lock on the pump attached. Most drums or containers for fuel are not lockable so you may have to devise your own type of locking system. Maybe camouflage would be a better security device. Hiding where your fuel storage is may even be better than locking it up. A combination of both would secure your fuel storage quite nicely. Remember the importance of rotating your fuel stock and making sure it is as fresh as possible. Keep records of when it was put in storage and when it was treated to help you to rotate it.
Motorized tools, generators, and vehicles run off of fuel. It’s necessary for these items to be of use to you in a survival situation to have fuel. Storing fuel is important but must be done safely and wisely and efficiently.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-9595680213246705652023-09-02T23:40:00.000-05:002023-09-02T23:40:01.453-05:00Without Power - Be ReadyPower
This morning my alarm went off as usual. I lay in bed listening to our dog bark at something. About 1 minute later the power went off. I got up and called the power company to report the outage. As I drove in to work I thought about our dependence on electricity. What could you do in your home without electricity? Can you cook? Would you have heat or water? Would your toilets work? We have tried to answer these questions with alternatives. We can cook on our propane stove in the kitchen. Or we have a wood stove, for heat and cooking. We have a solar oven that my wife has cooked in regularly. This not only saves propane, it’s free and the experience is invaluable. We have a generator with gasoline storage. We have solar lights that also can recharge our rechargeable batteries for flashlights and other devices. We have a few crank generator flashlights that can also recharge our cell phones. We have various camping stoves, a traditional white gas stove, a wood powered rocket stove, and small backpacking stoves. We have hurricane lamps that run off of kerosene, and camping lanterns that run off of white gas, and of course, candles. We also have various power tools that run off of gasoline. Even with all these things, I want more. We’re looking into wind power and solar power. There is water power if you have access to running water, a river, etc.. On top of the alternatives we have, we still have conventional batteries, car batteries, and water storage. We try to keep spare parts for motors, plumbing and electrical parts, and building materials around. We also have a variety of manuals and books to help us in our fixing or building projects. All these things support living off the grid.
Living without electricity requires forethought and preparedness. Items need to be purchased a little at a time. We’ve been doing this for most of our married life. Some things require more planning than others. I would suggest a few things you can do now. Find a container such as a 5 gallon bucket and lid. If you don’t have a spare home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s carry them for a small price. Start to fill this container with boxes of matches. There are several kinds on the market, stick or book, safety or strike anywhere. Also lighters should be included in this container. As you purchase these items put them in your container and you’ll be surprised how fast it adds up.
Look at your situation. How do you receive water? Is it through a municipal system or your own well? What alternate heat sources do you have? What about light? What about cooking? These questions should be answered with several answers. Redundancy is king and if one solution fails, you’ll need another. 2 is 1 and 1 is none. Find solutions that you can work on and put it on a schedule. If it’s the purchase of an expensive item, save for it slowly and stay in your budget. I strongly discourage going into debt for any of your preparedness items including food storage. If you need to use credit for short term purchases be very careful it does not turn into long term.
On occasion, test your program. Live a weekend with your power turned off. If you do this your eyes will be opened to where your program has holes. We had an unexpected snow storm that taught us where our holes in our preparedness are. But that’s the hard way! Involve the whole family. It can actually be a good and fun experience if you look at it that way. Doing this will also give you experience with the items and equipment you have. Remember that safety is very important. Open flames are very dangerous and should not be left unattended. Camping stoves and hurricane lamps use up oxygen so always have ventilation especially in winter. Never run a generator indoors. Keep fire and fire making materials away from children and pets. Do your smoke or CO2 alarms run off of batteries or hard wire power? You may need battery power for these items too.
Speaking of pets, do you have a contingency plan for your pets? They will need food, water, medicines, and anti-insect sprays and powder. If you want your pets to survive with you have a plan for them too.
As you test your “off the grid” preparations you could also incorporate your 72 hour kit plans into that exercise. You don’t have to use your all your 72 hour kit items but finding our operational details would help you in your knowledge of your system, and to know what may not work.
We’ve mentioned many things but here is a list of considerations:
Remember my favorite acronym for emergency and survival priority: SWiFFS (Shelter, Water, Food, Fire, Security)
Shelter: We assume you are in shelter because the electricity is out. Replace shelter with heat.
Heat: How will you stay out of the elements? Either stay cool or stay warm, or stay dry.
Water: Where will you get it and if it needs to be purified, how will you do that?
Food: How will you and yours eat? How will you cook food if you have it?
Fire: Heat, see above. Food, see above.
Security: How will you keep you and yours safe either from animal or human preditors?
Power blackout – general suggestions. Suggestions include:
Have an emergency kit prepared. (Either a shelter in place kit or your 72 hour kit)
Switch off all electrical appliances, especially those that have heating elements.
Unplug ‘surge-sensitive’ equipment, such as computers and video recorders.
Keep one light switch turned on so you know when the power returns.
Telephone your electricity provider for updates on the status of the blackout.
Turn on a battery-operated radio and listen to a local radio station for information.
Check on your neighbors to see if they need assistance, particularly if they are elderly or have a disability.
Heat and light. Suggestions include:
Multiple layers of clothing trap body heat more efficiently than one bulky layer.
The body loses a great deal of heat through the scalp so wear a hat.
Close doors, windows and blinds to maintain heat.
Flashlights are much safer sources of light than candles. Make sure you have a good stock of batteries.
If you must use candles, keep them away from drafts and away from children.
Be aware of fire hazards – keep candles away from curtains and other flammable objects.
Make sure to extinguish all candles before retiring for the night.
This morning my alarm went off as usual. I lay in bed listening to our dog bark at something outside. About 1 minute later the power went off. I got up and called the power company to report the outage. As I drove in to work I thought about our dependence on electricity. What could you do in your home without electricity? Can you cook? Would you have heat or water? Would your toilets work? We have tried to answer these questions with alternatives. We can cook on our propane stove in the kitchen. Or we have a wood stove, for heat and cooking. We have a solar oven that my wife has cooked in regularly. This not only saves propane, it’s free and the experience is invaluable. We have a generator with gasoline storage. We have solar lights that also can recharge our rechargeable batteries for flashlights and other devices. We have a few crank generator flashlights that can also recharge our cell phones. We even have an old fashioned hard line cord phone so that we don’t need electricity if the phone lines are out. We have various camping stoves, a traditional white gas stove, a wood powered rocket stove, and small backpacking stoves. We have hurricane lamps that run off of kerosene, and camping lanterns that run off of white gas, and of course, candles. We also have various power tools that run off of gasoline. Even with all these things, I want more. We’re looking into wind power and solar power. There is water power if you have access to running water. On top of the alternatives we have, we still have conventional batteries, car batteries, and water storage. We try to keep spare parts for motors, plumbing and electrical parts, and building materials around. We also have a variety of manuals and books to help us in our fixing or building projects. All these things support living off the grid.
Living without electricity requires forethought and preparedness. Items need to be purchased a little at a time. We’ve been doing this for most of our married life. Some things require more planning than others. I would suggest a few things you can do now. Find a container such as a 5 gallon bucket and lid. If you don’t have a spare home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s carry them for a small price. Start to fill this container with boxes of matches. There are several kinds on the market, stick or book, safety or strike anywhere. Also lighters should be included in this container. As you purchase these items put them in your container and you’ll be surprised how fast it adds up.
Look at your situation. How do you receive water? Is it through a municipal system or your own well? What alternate heat sources do you have? What about light? What about cooking? These questions should be answered with several answers. Redundancy is king and if one solution fails, you’ll need another. Find solutions that you can work on and put it on a schedule. If it’s the purchase of an expensive item, save for it slowly and stay in your budget. I strongly discourage going into debt for any of your preparedness items including food storage. If you need to use credit for short term purchases be very careful it does not turn into long term.
On occasion, test your program. Live a weekend with your power turned off. If you do this your eyes will be opened to where your program has holes. Involve the whole family. It can actually be a good and fun experience if you look at it that way. Doing this will also give you experience with the items and equipment you have. Remember that safety is very important. Open flames are very dangerous and should not be left unattended. Camping stoves and hurricane lamps use up oxygen so always have ventilation. Never run a generator indoors. Keep fire and fire making materials away from children and pets. Do your smoke or CO2 alarms run off of batteries or hard wire power? You may need battery power for these items too.
Speaking of pets, do you have a contingency plan for your pets? They will need food, water, medicines, and anti-insect sprays and powder. If you want your pets to survive with you have a plan for them too.
As you test your "off the grid" preparations you could also incorporate your 72 hour kit plans into that exercise. You don’t have to use all your 72 hour kit items but finding operational details would help you in your knowledge of your system, and to know what may work and not work.
We’ve mentioned many things but here is a list of considerations:
Remember my favorite acronym for emergency and survival priority: SWiFFS (Shelter, Water, Food, Fire, Security)
Shelter: We assume you are in shelter because the electricity is out. Replace shelter with heat.
Heat: How will you stay out of the elements? Either stay cool or stay warm, or stay dry.
Water: Where will you get it and if it needs to be purified, how will you do that?
Food: How will you and yours eat? How will you cook food if you have it?
Fire: Heat, see above. Food, see above.
Security: How will you keep you and yours safe either from animal or human predators?
Power blackout – general suggestions
Suggestions include:
Have an emergency kit prepared. (Either a shelter in place kit or your 72 hour kit)
Switch off all electrical appliances, especially those that have heating elements.
Unplug ‘surge-sensitive’ equipment, such as computers and video recorders.
Keep one light switch turned on so you know when the power returns.
Telephone your electricity provider for updates on the status of the blackout.
Turn on a battery-operated radio and listen to a local radio station for information.
Check on your neighbors to see if they need assistance, particularly if they are elderly or have a disability. Fall and Winter are on the horizon.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-51287343693747637792023-09-02T23:26:00.009-05:002023-09-02T23:26:49.749-05:00Gun Safety and the 200th Hour I was surfing the web and went to one of my favorite forums. There was a sad story and graphic pictures of someone who shot themselves. They had forgotten the rules and ended up shooting their own hand with a “checked” weapon. “How could someone be so stupid?” you are probably asking yourself. A friend of mine was a Border Patrolman. He is now a Customs agent. At the time of this incident he had been through the academy ( 6 months of training including weapons), and had been an agent for about 2 years. Agents must qualify with their service weapon every 3 months. So he was no stranger to his weapon. While cleaning his weapon, he had an accidental discharge that went through an outside wall and into the ground in his backyard. He was lucky. No one was hurt and there was little damage. He did, however, struggle with whether he should even report his mistake, which he did report. This was not a “rookie” mistake. This was an experienced gun handler who broke one or more of the 4 gun rules. Those are:
RULE 1 ALL GUNS ARE ALWAYS LOADED
The only exception to this occurs when one has a weapon in his hands and he has personally unloaded it for checking. As soon as he puts it down, Rule 1 applies again.
RULE 2 NEVER LET THE MUZZLE COVER (POINT AT) ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT WILLING TO DESTROY
You may not wish to destroy it, but you must be clear in your mind that you are quite ready to if you let that muzzle cover the target. To allow a firearm to point at another human being is a deadly threat, and should always be treated as such.
RULE 3KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER (AND OUT OF THE GUARD) UNTIL YOUR SIGHTS ARE ON THE TARGET
This we call the Golden Rule because it's violation is responsible for about 80 percent of the firearms disasters we read about.
RULE 4BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET
You never shoot at anything until you have positively identified it. You never fire at a shadow, or a sound, or a suspected presence. You shoot only when you know absolutely what you are shooting at and what is beyond it.
Many people, even experienced gun handlers, think that after rule 1 is accomplished, there are no more rules. This is of course BALONEY! In the above 2 incidents the other 3 rules were ignored and as a result, an accidental discharge. If you have a gun. If you ever think you will ever own or use a gun, these 4 rules should be tattooed on your brain. Do not violate these rules in any form. Remind others also. I do this constantly with my family. Not because I don't trust them, On the contrary, I absolutely do not want them hurt or for them to experience the heartbreak of an accident that they could have prevented.
On the above story from a forum I read all of the comments. Most were right on the mark. This person pointed a weapon at his own hand and pulled the trigger. He broke the 1st rule, but he also broke 2 and 3 and probably even 4! The only time I point the barrel at myself or another person is when the gun is apart and the barrel is off the slide. Otherwise, all rules apply. I even hate the idea of carrying a weapon that has one in the chamber. Which, by the way, is stupid NOT to do if you carry for self defense in my opinion. If there is an external hammer it doesn't necessarily have to be pulled back with an auto that is double action.
Good habits save lives. A strong lifetime habit of handling a weapon respectfully EVEN when unloaded can prevent injury and death when you brain isn't paying as much attention as it should.
First, unload the firearm, then lock the action open and double-check that it's unloaded, using your eyes and then your fingertip to be sure. (That takes care of Rule One.) Be conscious of your muzzle direction at all times. Don't get sloppy or careless with the muzzle even though you think the gun is now unloaded. (Rule Two.) Close the action and deliberately point the muzzle at a consciously-chosen safe aimpoint. One reason people point guns in foolish directions is because they haven't consciously chosen a good direction, so choose a specific spot to aim the muzzle before you put your finger on the trigger. (Rule Three.) When you choose that spot, be certain it can really stop a bullet of the caliber your gun can fire. For instance, for a handgun you might choose to aim at a cement wall in the basement, or at the top of a thick stack of books, or at a purpose-made product such as a Safe Directions pad, or at the corner of the floor in a one-story building. (Rule Four.)
Remember the 200th hour. This is about the time that someone spends training when they make their first mistake. In flying this can happen with pilots. I tend to agree. By the 200th hour your experience just starts to exceed your knowledge and you can become careless. That's when mistakes are made. Be aware of this and act accordingly. I believe the second “danger hour” is after 2 years. Know your limits and NEVER break the rules!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-81942550669246499102023-08-30T18:15:00.003-05:002023-08-30T18:15:31.077-05:00Gibbs Rules and YouOne of the longest running TV series that started in September 2003 is “NCIS” which is a spinoff from the popular “JAG” series. Currently NCIS has entered its tentieth season. The main character is Leroy Jethro Gibbs played by actor Mark Harmon. Gibbs is a retired Marine Sniper. Over his time as a Marine and a NCIS agent he develops “rules” to live by. Here are the basic rules.
Rule #1: Never let suspects stay together.
Rule #1: Never screw over your partner.
Rule #2: Always wear gloves at a crime scene.
Rule #3: Don't believe what you're told. Double check.
Rule #3: Never be unreachable.
Rule #4: The best way to keep a secret? Keep it to yourself. Second best? Tell one other person - if you must. There is no third best.
Rule #5: You don't waste good.
Rule #6: Never say you're sorry. It's a sign of weakness.
Rule #7: Always be specific when you lie.
Rule #8: Never take anything for granted.
Rule #8a: Never assume.
Rule #9: Never go anywhere without a knife.
Rule #10: Never get personally involved in a case.
Rule #11: When the job is done, walk away.
Rule #12: Never date a co-worker.
Rule #13: Never, ever involve a lawyer.
Rule #14: Bend the Line, do not ever Break It
Rule #15: Always work as a team.
Rule #16: If someone thinks they have the upper hand, break it.
Rule #18: It's better to seek forgiveness than ask permission.
Rule #20: Always look under.
Rule #22: Never, ever bother Gibbs in interrogation.
Rule #23: Never mess with a Marine's coffee... if you want to live.
Rule #27: There are two ways to follow someone. First way, they never notice you. Second way, they only notice you.
Rule #28: You need help, ask.
Rule #35: Always watch the watchers.
Rule #36: If you feel like you are being played, you probably are.
Rule #38: Your case, your lead.
Rule #39: There is no such thing as coincidence.
Rule #39a There is no such thing as a small world.
Rule #40: If it seems someone is out to get you, they are.
Rule #42: Never accept an apology from someone who just sucker punched you.
Rule #44: First things first, hide the women and children.
Rule #45: Clean up the mess that you make.
Rule #51: Sometimes - you're wrong.
Rule #62: Always give people space when they get off the elevator.
Rule #69: Never trust a woman who doesn't trust her man.
I like some of Gibbs’ rules but feel there are way too many for anyone to remember. When my kids were small I developed what I call “Rules of Engagement” or rules to live your life by. I’ve tried to maintain these rules throughout my life. They are:
1. God, family, country Always in that order
2. Family should never fight alone
3. Service and Charity never faileth
4. Avoid debt like you would disease
5. Ain’t no one happy unless Mama’s happy
6. Never give up if the task is just
7. Work smarter, not harder
8. Trust but verify
9. A soldiers way saves the day
10. Distraction kills
11. Don’t leave home without a knife or a gun
12. Be hard to offend or anger
I would suggest developing your own “rules of engagement”. Write them down and live by them. Share them with your children and friends. Become better if you can!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-90058969052319779382023-08-27T16:21:00.005-05:002023-08-27T16:21:48.588-05:00Tactical BreathingI deal with PTSD. The incident that triggered this stress happened many years ago in a far-off place. I have worked through this and it doesn't effect me as it did long ago. But it still does effect me. Anxiety for no reason some times messes with my head and hypervigilance goes with it. I have medigated this problem and have found that breathing helps. I learned many years ago about the effects of breathing. In a course given by the state department on situational awareness I first learned about tactical breathing. I used it in teaching shooting as an instructor and had success. I used it again in a combat situation and found it helped a lot to calm down and concentrate on what was going on. After my combat experience I use it often with the effects of PTSD. This is an article by the HPRC. Human Performance Resources by CHAMP (HPRC) is a team of scientists and specialists who translate research into evidence-based resources to help Service Members and their families optimize their performance and reach total fitness.
They explain it, and the science behind it, better than I ever could.
https://www.hprc-online.org/mental-fitness/sleep-stress/tactical-breathing-military
Tactical breathing is a method of using your breath to change how you feel physically and emotionally to focus your attention and improve your performance. Breathing is one of the most basic human activities, and learning to control it strategically can lower your stress, manage unhelpful emotions, and improve your long-term health.
When your emotions aren’t helpful, you can actually decrease or increase their intensity through your breathing. Think of the last time a powerful feeling such as anxiety or anger made it hard to do something you needed to do, such as clearing a room, staying vigilant while out on patrol, or having a tough conversation. It can be difficult to change these intense feelings using thoughts alone, so learning to control your breath can become a very effective tool. Instead of talking (or thinking) your way out of your emotions, you can learn to breathe your way through them.
Your breathing is connected—through your brain and nervous system—to how you feel physically and emotionally. It’s because your autonomic nervous system, or ANS—the part of your overall nervous system that controls your breathing—also helps regulate every other system in your body, including your endocrine (hormone), cardiovascular, immune, and digestive systems. Like the pedals in your car, your ANS can either speed up or slow down your systems. ANS generally runs on autopilot and is managed by two complementary systems: the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Your SNS works like the gas pedal in your car, accelerating your breathing to help you pursue goals and avoid threats. This “fight or flight” system turns on and can be helpful when you need to react and respond quickly. However, getting stuck in this gear wears you down, and it can lead to poor sleep, decreased sex drive, indigestion, constipation, and higher risk of infections. When your SNS runs in overdrive, it can leave you feeling stressed, fatigued, irritated, anxious, or depressed.
Your PNS controls your relaxation response, slows you down, and quiets your SNS. One way to take your body off autopilot is to control your breathing. You can slow your breathing with steady, full breaths and longer exhales. Doing this activates your PNS, which relaxes your muscles and sends feedback to your brain that “all is well.” When you’re relaxed, it’s hard to feel stressed or upset. In fact, your relaxation response slows the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and norepinephrine, lowering your heart rate and blood pressure to healthy levels. Not only does this response counterbalance stress, it also can boost immunity, increase alertness, and improve your metabolism. Controlled breathing practices also can help reduce symptoms associated with anxiety, insomnia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression.
Stress can take its toll on your mental and physical health, including your heart health, but there are breathing techniques to buffer yourself from it. When you’re less focused on your breathing, it’s typical to breathe erratically, especially when you face the stressors of day-to-day life. In turn, your heart rate can become less rhythmic and cause your heart to not function as well.
But when you have longer, slower exhales—breathing at about 4-second-inhale and 6-second-exhale paces—your heart rate rhythmically fluctuates up and down. This rhythmic varibility in heart rate mirrors your inhales and exhales so that you have maximum heart rate at the end of the inhale and minimum heart rate at the end of the exhale. More importantly, this physiological shift might help you feel less stressed, anxious, or depressed—and experience better heart health.
Practice tactical breathing regularly, and you’ll form good habits over time, just like any other skill you practice regularly. Use the guided mediation below to try out tactical breathing. You’ll be guided with the tune for a few breaths at this more optimal pace. As you hear the tone get louder, breathe in, and as you hear it soften, exhale.
After practicing, take a moment to reflect on how you feel now compared to how you felt before you began reading this article. You breathe all the time, but usually you go through the motions of breathing while absorbed in your own thoughts. Instead, you took notice of your breathing, intentionally controlled it, and noticed other body sensations. Regularly tuning in to your breathing and body sensations can help you feel more resilient and ready to:
• Adapt to change
• Deal with whatever comes your way
• See the brighter, or funnier, side of problems
• Overcome stress
• Tolerate unpleasant feelings
• Bounce back after illness, failures, or other hardships
• Meet your goals
• Stay focused under pressure
• Feel stronger
I can atest to this technique and how well it can work!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
BurnUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-90793254272384917662023-08-26T19:17:00.002-05:002023-08-26T19:17:19.110-05:00Keeping Your Nose CleanI've been asked how to get through one of these checks for a government job.
I just went through a security clearance update. I’ve been through many of these and even more background checks. A security clearance is similar to an extensive background check.
When I was in the military, I held a Top Secret security clearance. All this means is that more time and deeper checking goes on than the Secret clearance that I hold now. Organizations that require security clearances like members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, (Mormons) because they usually can pass these checks easily. Not that some members would not have financial problems, but usually there is no substance use problems. Usually there are no problems in the area of sexual behavior either. There are plenty of others that are not members that pass these checks. The criteria for holding Secret and Top Secret clearances is roughly:
1. Allegiance to the United States
2. Foreign Influence
3. Foreign Preference
4. Sexual Behavior
5. Personal Conduct
6. Financial Considerations
7. Alcohol Consumption
8. Drug Involvement
9. Psychological Conditions
10. Criminal Conduct
11. Handling Protected Information
12. Outside Activities
13. Use of Information Technology Systems
I say roughly because different agencies have different requirements so some of the above criteria may be slightly different.
Department of Defense uses the above criteria. They also require a background check just to get on the installation and to work. Some military bases will let those who are already working on that base sponsor visitors on the installation. There are always places that not just anyone can go. Flightlines are usually a hotspot. Aircraft, and even more so, the equipment on different aircraft, can be very sensitive. Usually communications buildings, command posts, and other command and control buildings are off limits to those who have no business in that area or building. DOD is notorious for securing areas and being quite strict in its enforcement. Nothing did my heart good than to see a jerk of a person get jacked up crossing a red line. I know that’s not nice but usually it was deserved. There were a few times I found myself in “no mans land” and luckily did not get caught. Military security is pretty serious.
National security eligibility determinations take into account a person’s:
Stability, Trustworthiness, Reliability, Discretion, Character, Honesty, Judgment, Unquestionable loyalty to the U.S.
Those who wish to overthrow or undermine the government by unconstitutional or violent means; terrorist groups; and individuals who:
May be susceptible to pressure or improper influence;
Have shown dishonesty or lack of integrity which casts doubt upon their reliability;
Have demonstrated behavior or are subject to circumstances which may otherwise indicate unreliability.
Security concerns might include supporting sedition or applying for citizenship in another country. Investigators also look out for a pattern of high-risk sexual behavior or a history of not meeting financial obligations.
A single instance of concern in any area will not necessarily disqualify an applicant. The reviewers also consider the applicant's response to the concern. Was it truthful, complete, and voluntary? Has the applicant shown positive behavior changes since the concerning incident?
So, if you are applying for a government job, remember to be open and honest with your answers. If you fudge the truth on this application and it is found out at any time in your career, you will be fired. You will be escorted off the installation or worse. I had a supervisor who was just accused of a crime (which he was eventually convicted of), and the commander had him escorted off his base. Base or Wing, or Battalion, etc. Commanders are “God” on their Post or Base. What they say goes. It is their small kingdom. This Commander did not want to wait for any due process, and he was not required to. So, remember that. The military doesn’t have much tolerance for impropriety. Be careful in your behavior including your uploaded content. Pictures and comments have gotten people fired from government jobs. Is it fair? Maybe not. Civilians usually are looked at with more scrutiny than military members. The reason is, commanders can do more to military members than they can civilians.
How impeccable is your reputation? Could it pass government scrutiny? Staying off the radar or being the “gray man” is advantageous in this day and age. Not only is it smart for privacy reasons, but security reasons also.
Be invisible if you can.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-5421417166884794942023-03-21T19:51:00.009-05:002023-03-21T19:51:50.749-05:00Framework of PreparednessI’d like to review for you what my idea of preparedness is.
I must put a disclaimer here. I have been involved in preparedness my entire life. Even my childhood was filled with my Mother canning and baking homemade bread to my Father teaching me self-sufficiency by learning carpentry and mechanical skills. My parents taught preparedness to all of us kids. So my idea of preparedness may not be the same as yours. My guess is my idea of preparedness may seem a little excessive to you. Unless you’re paranoid too! I’m not really paranoid but I like options. Preparedness gives you options. So don’t be overwhelmed by what I think preparedness should be. Start small and work your way to your goal. My preparedness has been over 40 years in the making!
Survival Plan
Bug In (or retreat): Retreat and home defense books for reference
Know your neighbors and surroundings
Immediate neighbors
Identify key infrastructure
Map your area
Neighborhood awareness group
Network with neighbors
Share information
Neighborhood protection plan
Command and control
Security responsibilities
Designated evacuation area (Related to Bug out)
Home defense plan
Identify vulnerable areas
Reinforced structures and defenses
Steel doors
Window bars or coverings
Fighting positions
Designated evacuation area (Related to Bug out)
Bug Out:
Bug out bag
Financial
Sanitation
Energy
Communication
Protection
Food
Water
Medical
Identify areas
Identify key infrastructure
State/Local government facilities
Military installations
Natural and weather hazards
Population density
National parks
Forestry lands
State owned lands
Family/Friends property
Scout areas
Practice bug out plan
Fuel
People
Obstacles
Medical
Knowledge (Level 1)
Medication
Stored medications
Prescription
Pet medications
(Knowledge connected to First Aid Kits)
Every adult should know:
Stabilize neck
Treat fractures
Treat chest wounds
Treat cuts, Suture
Control bleeding
Open airways
Treat shock
Administer an IV
Clinic
Medical records
Medical documents
Bulk medical supplies (related to First Aid Kits)
Reference materials (related to First Aid Kits)
First aid kits
Trauma kit
IFAK (Individual first aid kit)
Large kit
Bulk medical supplies (related to Clinic)
Reference materials (related to Clinic)
Desired medical personnel
Recruitment
Networking
Veterinarian
EMT/Paramedic
Doctor/Dentist
Knowledge (Level 2)
Advanced reference materials and medical equipment
Protection
State Laws
Property protection laws
Firearms restrictions
Conceal carry laws
Non-Lethal
Stun gun
Pepper/wasp spray
Baton
Lethal
Blades
Firearms –Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns
Storage- Ammo cans, gun cabinets, burial vaults
Ammunition
Training- Range, Shooting drills, Courses
Gear- Holsters, Carriers, Pouches, Slings
Maintenance
Cleaning supplies
Lubricants
Spare parts
Reference materials
Communication
Security- Radio discipline, Call signs, Limit distance, Privacy (Codes, protocols)
Long term plan
Equipment
HAM- Long range, can send data, expensive, license, technical
CB- Cheap, anyone can use
VHF- Common to marine industry (Requires energy)
2 way- Cheap, anyone can use, GMRS, FRS, FRS/GMRS (Requires energy)
Other
Emergency plan
Weather radio
Meeting place
Corded phone- powered by utility
AM/FM radio
Police scanner
E-mail
Cell phone- Text messages may work
Short wave
Food
Hunting, fishing, foraging
Foraging-wild edibles, plant identification (take a guided trip), reference materials
Hunting-Firearms, trapping, slingshot, bow/sling bow
Hunting experience-Supporting equipment, field dressing
Fishing-Know your area (fish species & seasonal patterns)
Catching fish-Cast net/traps, trout/tree lines, rod and reel, survival kit
Cleaning fish-preparation, preservation (connected to food storage)
72 hour food supply (bug out/emergency supply)
1 month food supply (long term emergency)
1 year food supply (long term)
Gardening/Farming (water requirements for plants, irrigation, animals)
Growing crops-Sprouting, seeds
Hyrdoculture/hydroponics-infrastructure, tanks, pumps
Small scale gardening-Management, rotation, seasons, fertilizer, pest
Management, harvest
Large scale-Land assessment, Management (same as small scale)
Raising livestock
Water
Selecting livestock
Animal husbandry
Butchering
Aquaculture
Determining fish and plants
This is but a general framework for your own prepareness plan. Remember to start small, don't go into debt, and don't get overwhelmed.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
BurnUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-30282414136721468852023-03-21T19:27:00.001-05:002023-06-11T21:44:15.168-05:00Repost: No More "No More Mr. Nice Guy" and MoreI used to be such a sweet, sweet thing<br />
'Til they got a hold of me.<br />
I opened doors for little old ladies,<br />
I helped the blind to see.<br />
I got no friends 'cause they read the papers.<br />
They can't be seen with me and I'm gettin' real shot down<br />
And I'm feeling mean.<br />
<br />
No more Mister Nice Guy,<br />
No more Mister Clean,<br />
No more Mister Nice Guy,<br />
They say he's sick, he's obscene.<br />
I had a conversation with an old friend of mine from our years in the military. He is no longer in the military and neither am I. We were talking about the time we were in that often we weren’t very nice guys. We talked about the way we acted and came to the conclusion that it had to do with the job and the training. That is not an excuse. We both made choices and they were our choices, no one forced us to be that way. But the cause was the constant ruthlessness that was being pounded into us. When you must take another human beings life it is not normal or natural. To do so without feeling would be impossible. I do understand that killing can be a very addictive behavior that can turn normally good people into a form of monster. <br />
Years ago my Mother sent me all of my Dad’s military pictures from his time in the navy during WWII. I noticed that his ship was one of the many ships that went into Japan after the surrender and he had pictures of it. On the back of the pictures my Dad wrote comments about each picture. Moving a large ship into a harbor can be a dangerous thing. So, the Japanese put a soldier on board my Dad’s ship to help guide it into port. He had pictures of the soldier and on the back he describes the soldier as the “Nip soldier”. My Dad taught his children that calling anyone a name was wrong, but especially words that are racially offensive. When I asked him about it years before he said, “Son, it was war. In war you must demonize the enemy or you will be killing fathers and sons, good people who just want to live their lives.” Years later I am training to kill “rag heads”. It is something we must do as humans to justify killing a fellow human being.<br />
I have the same feelings at times like the Alice Cooper song “No more Mr. Nice Guy”. Like the lyrics at the beginning of this post I consider myself a good guy. I consider myself a Christian trying to live a Christ-like life. As a Mormon, we try to emphasize Christ and His mission of atonement here on this earth. So how can I train to kill someone? That’s the exact opposite of Christ’s teachings. It does seem that Christ’s teachings center around peace, but He did understand the need for defense.<br />
If you’ve ever trained in the military or with law enforcement, you know that everyone is a liar, a cheat, and would kill you for nothing. They are the enemy. That can turn a “sweet, sweet thing” into a not good guy.<br />
You must fight this. You must be realistic and know that everyone out there is not trying to get you. It’s a form of paranoia. It can ruin your life or at the very least, relationships. Relationships with your spouse and your children are the most important relationships you can ever have. They are more important than the brotherhood relationships that you have with your “brothers in arms”. If you didn’t learn that quick, you could be in a world of hurt later on.<br />
Training for self-defense is similar but not quite as intense. You are training to kill another human being. I’ve been to gun ranges that won’t let you shoot “human-like” targets. I think that’s a politically correct way of trying to keep liability off their doorstep. I guess they don’t think anyone is training to kill, even though defense is not necessarily killing. But if you have a hard time thinking that you may very well have to kill, don’t carry a gun. You will hesitate if there is a doubt that you can kill. You may be able to choose not to kill, and that’s what separates you from the animals. You can make a conscience effort to not become cold, and judgmental. <br />
When I was a Bishop I had a counselor who worked in intell in Customs. Because of the nature of his work he was becoming a cold dude. I finally had to take him aside and tell him what he was becoming and what he was doing to his family and others. To his credit, he recognized his direction and changed it.<br />
There is a quote from General James N. Mattis, Marine Commander of US CENTCOMM:<br />
“Be polite, be professional, but have a plan to kill everybody you meet.”<br />
That is our challenge. To not let our training, our job, our past experiences affect us as a father, a husband, a citizen, a priesthood holder, a Christian. But to be prepared.<br />
If you are in combat that is very difficult. The same goes for law enforcement. Be extra vigilant if you are in these situations. As a concealed carry holder you may be faced with killing, but you are not duty bound to kill. You can run away if you want to. Combat and law enforcement won’t allow that.<br />
My dog bit me on the leg today.<br />
My cat clawed my eyes.<br />
Ma's been thrown out of the social circle,<br />
And Dad has to hide.<br />
I went to church incognito.<br />
When everybody rose, the Reverend Smith,<br />
He recognized me,<br />
And punched me in the nose, he said.<br />
No more Mister Nice Guy,<br />
No more Mister Clean,<br />
No more Mister Nice Guy,<br />
He said you're sick, you're obscene.<br />
You can be prepared and still be a nice guy. The world is not as bleak as your training tells you. There are good people out there and not everyone is trying to harm others. But be vigilant, because Mr. Evil is out there. He would like more than anything for you to be asleep. A sheep.<br />
It’s possible to be prepared to fight Mr. Evil and still be Mr. Good Guy. It takes effort and discipline. So don’t let No more Mr. Nice Guy take over your life.
I've reprinted this for reasons of self-defense. This is what I do here, promote self-defense. But I also want to talk about being a "nice guy". What reason do you have to be a nice guy? Niceness is not a virtue or commandment. Kindness is. Patience is. Niceness in the men in the church is turning us into soft, less than resiliant, wimps. I'm not promoting meanness or being nasty and cantankerous, but nice is getting old! You don't have to explain why you can't be at an activity trying to justify your absence. You can say no. I'm also not promoting not being courteous. I'm talking about the icky, sweet niceness that is not very genuine. Men can be men. You can be kind and not nice at the same time!
Men in the church should work at being good husbands and fathers. But not to the detriment of their masculinity. We should help at home and with our wives, but that doesn't mean we can't go to the shooting range occasionally. Or the golf course or the camp out or fishing trip or even Leggoland. The world would have us be subservient to our wives when the Lord teaches working together as husband and wife. The term "happy wife, happy life" is all kinds of silly! As husband and wife we should work hard to care for, love, and make the other happy. But not just a one-sided mess! There is give and take in a releationship. Wives stop forcing your husbands to do what they don't really want to do only to please you! Husbands stop being a selfish jerk and care for and love your wife! I am not saying that neither should ever give into the other and sacrifice, but it should be a two way street. Men stop trying to be "nice" and be yourself. Be this way:
persuasive, long-suffering, gentle and meek, and by having love unfeigned;
Be kind and have pure knowledge (I call this revelation), non hypocritical and have no guile.
Have charity and faith and virtuous thoughts. And above all, have the Holy Ghost as your constant companion.
(Paraphrased from D&C 121:41, 42, 45, 46)
Let men be men and women be women. Each has roles. Sometimes those roles are moved around some. That is OK. As long as you are all trying to live Christ-like lives. Don't let Satan and the world fool you into anything else.
No more Mr. Nice Guy.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-44329142592790804092023-02-07T11:49:00.003-06:002023-02-07T11:49:28.739-06:00LDS Gunsite Index for 2022LDS Gunsite Index 2022
Happy New Year and Merry Christmas! 1/2/2022
Index For 2021 2/1/2022
BYU Introspection and Pass the Ammunition! 2/21/2022
Condition Yellow 2/21/2022
Homestead Security 5/13/2022
Learning Security From Scriptures 5/24/2022
Reprint From 2018: Do We Want Our Schools Secure, Or Not? 5/27/2022
Food Storage and Fires 6/14/2022
Spy Crap 9/2/2022
What A Combat Vet Would Share With You 9/4/2022
"Experts" (Reprint from Oct 14, 2016) 9/4/2022
Power and Alternatives 9/4/2022
Bishops and Security: Comment Reply 9/9/2022
Concealed Carry Myths (Reprint from May 21, 2014) 9/9/2022
Becoming A Danite (Updated DEC 2022) 9/29/2022
You Have A Right To Rights! 12/2/2022
Civilian Tactical Training 12/7/2022
Get Home Bag 12/13/2022
Becoming A Danite (Updated DEC 2022) 12/13/2022
Recommended: Has Big Pharma Hijacked Evidence-Based Medicine? By Dr. Joseph Mercola 12/13/2022
Magazine Storage: Loaded? or Unloaded? 12/21/2022
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-64205065444311393252022-12-21T18:01:00.005-06:002023-06-21T11:01:26.482-05:00Magazine Storage: Loaded? or Unloaded?Storing magazines full or empty.
My opinion, regarding your question, comes from my direct experience in the military, as a competitive shooter and as an industry professional. When using quality magazines with quality ammunition, stored and maintained properly, you can leave them loaded as long as you want to without any reservation.
GEORGE HARRIS, August 12, 2019, “Shooting Illustrated”
De-formed followers, bad ammunition, problematic firearms, and user error are more often to blame for frequent malfunctions than worn magazine springs.
Chris Baker, editor of Lucky Gunner Lounge, June 02, 2014
I’ve shot guns with magazines for over 4 decades. I have a lot of experience with good and bad magazines. I have considerably less experience with wheel guns. But I actually taught revolver shooting in the military in the days of yore. I have had a few magazine failures but not very many. When I competed I was paranoid about magazines. If a magazine was ever in question, it was replaced. I did not store my competition magazines with ammo in them for fear of that being a factor. I have changed. I store self-defense magazines full of ammo all the time. I’ve talked to manufacturers, I’ve talked to engineers, and I’ve talked to many other instructors, and the conclusion I have come to is, I’ll store ammo in magazines, but I will probably rotate the ammo and the magazines on a fairly regular basis.
In his article in Shooting Illustrated, George Harris said:
"I thought it fitting to contact some of my friends in the industry, both from an engineering and customer-service perspective. As I suspected, the answers I received were as varied as the number of people to whom I talked.
I called four different people in four different departments at one of the major manufacturers with whom I have a close relationship and received four different answers. They ranged from the magazine could remain loaded indefinitely and still function fine when and if the time came to use them, to a long, complicated regimen of exercising the spring by partially downloading the magazine periodically to different levels so the spring wouldn’t take a set to a specific position because of the number of rounds loaded in the magazine.”
I’ve heard similar answers to the above so I adopted my own regime of storing magazines loaded, but rotating the ammunition at least annually, but just as often as not, 3 to 6 months. Some magazines are not used very often so that annual thing has not happened. I know I have some .25 caliber magazines that have not been changed out in a while. Probably a few years. I’ve started to put a post-it note with each magazine stored with a date it was put into storage to get a better idea of how long it has been. Some guns are not shot often and this simple note will at least tell me how old the ammo is.
I’m not here to answer the question, “Should I store magazines loaded or not?” I’m here to shed light on the reality of storing and keeping guns functioning and keeping sanity. I’m probably the pickiest about my carry guns and other self-defense guns, but in my experience and for me, I store magazines loaded mostly. Depends on the gun. I have many AR15 magazines and all of them are not full all the time. But I have some guns that have only 4 magazines and I store those full. Unless it is an odd caliber that I don’t shoot much. So you see, the answer to this question is not really a definitive “loaded” or “unloaded”. The only time I’ve wanted all magazines always full was in combat. Otherwise, it’s a case by case basis.
I’m glad to have cleared that up….
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-48964516757302336322022-12-13T19:54:00.004-06:002022-12-13T19:56:39.241-06:00Recommended: Has Big Pharma Hijacked Evidence-Based Medicine? By Dr. Joseph Mercolahttps://www.lewrockwell.com/2022/12/joseph-mercola/has-big-pharma-hijacked-evidence-based-medicine/
This is a very interesting article and video. I recommend you watch and read, then do your own research!
Semper Paratus
Chek 6
BurnUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-8127827148986790172022-12-13T19:48:00.010-06:002023-01-03T13:45:42.215-06:00Becoming A Danite (Updated DEC 2022)This is just a reference to the article of SEP 29, 2022. Read it!
BurnUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-55084730274879175622022-12-13T19:29:00.004-06:002023-06-21T11:10:25.823-05:00Get Home BagMost of the country have experienced record high temperatures last Summer and we were no different. In the southwest we are used to no rain. In our area we have had no significant rain all year. But one night we experienced a real thunderstorm! I don’t normally work evenings but I happened to be at work that night. The storm hit right as I was leaving work. Lot’s of lightning, rain, and wind. I could hardly see the road as I made my way home. We live out of town about 4 miles and a few miles off the highway. Once I get off the highway we have about 3 significant low water crossings I was worried about. I came to the first and could see it flowing. Around here, if you can see it flowing it’s deep enough to take your car away. It only takes 2 inches anyway. So there I sat wondering when I would get home in a pouring rain, watching the lightning. It was hot but I couldn’t open the windows, of course. I was sweating and I thought maybe dehydration might be a problem. I had several bottles of water in the car so that wouldn’t be a problem. I got out of the car once to check a crossing and by the time I got back in I was drenched. I wish I’d had a poncho or rain jacket of some kind. Even a large garbage bag would have worked. I carry a flashlight and multi-tool so I had that. Every car we have has a folding knife and a lighter in the glove compartment. We try to keep pain reliever in there too. I really wish I’d have had an emergency kit when I needed it. I was only stranded there for about 30 minutes but it felt like hours. The rain calmed down, I found a crossing on a different road that got me home and I was in bed by midnight. As usual, the experience made me think of my lack of preparedness. I did have a cell phone and water. I could have cut a water bottle to collect rainwater if I needed to. This experience prompted me to research and put together a “get home” kit. Here is the list I came up with and I will explain my logic for the items I feel are the most important.
Car Kit Suggested Items
Purified water (2 liters/person)
Food, (3 day supply requiring no cooking)
Blanket, sleeping bag or emergency metallic space blanket
Large plastic garbage bag, poncho or rain gear
Can opener (P38)
2, ½ rolls toilet paper
Compass and map, mirror, whistle
Matches, striker, light sticks
Pepper spray
Tube tent
Water straw filter
Flashlights (extra batteries)
Knife or multi-tool
Eating utensils
550 Para cord, fish line, hooks
Leather gloves, N95 masks
Personal Items:
Shower cap (to keep fallout out of your hair)
Chapstick, hairbrush, hand lotion
Feminine supplies,
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Soap, washcloth, small towel, razor
Extra eyeglasses (even if you wear contacts)
Deodorant
Change of clothing, jacket, shoes, socks, underwear, hat
Infant needs, if necessary
Level 1 first aid kit
Cold weather clothing, paint can alcohol heater (I’ve added these for those who live in cold areas, or areas that snow. We very rarely have any significant snow)
This is a fairly complete kit. Items in bold are considered necessary.
I’ll go through the first 9 items that I feel are essential.
Remember my acronym SWiFFS? It stands for: shelter, water, food, fire, security. I think these things, in this order, are the very basics of survival. Some ask me why shelter first? Most of the time shelter is first but under certain circumstances water is first. There are times when first aid, which is not even on my list, will come first. Usually a shelter will be at the top though. If you are protected from the elements you will have a place to go to eat and drink and get warm. Sometimes water overshadows shelter.
Notice on my list is water first. That is because you are already in a car for shelter. Of course food is next. Be sure to have plenty of water. The list says 2 liters per person but to be honest with you, I’d have about a gallon per person. I keep about 4 gallons. Yes it is a hassle securing it and keeping it fresh. But I live in a desert, and I want as much water as I can stand to deal with. That’s in my Jeep Cherokee. It will generally hold about 4 people. A larger vehicle, like years ago we had an Expedition, however holds 6 gallons. Anyway, find out what will work for you and adjust accordingly.
Shelter also equals warmth and protection from the elements. I love wool blankets! They are light and very warm. They also retain most of their warmth properties even when wet. I also carry an emergency “foil” blanket.
A poncho is a life saver. I like them because even the cheap ones do what they are designed to do. Wind does affect them a lot, but that can be said for many things.
A can opener is a great necessity. There are many kinds of can openers but I like the old military style “P38”. It is small, and light. I carry one on my keychain but also in my kit.
Being able to start a fire is a skill all people should have. A fire can purify water, cook food, give warmth, give light, give security and comfort, and it may be used to signal many miles away. Fire is extremely versatile. Having something to help you start a fire is truly priceless.
Toilet paper is the best thing in your kit when it is needed. I have a roll vacuum packed and another in a zip loc bag. It can be used as a fire starter too!
A compass can save your life, literally. Having a compass and map and knowing how to use it gives me great security and confidence. If you don't know anything about this, learn. The internet is full of websites and videos that teach this skill in detail. Or find a Boy Scout Troop in your area. They would be glad to teach you.
A mirror and whistle can also save your life if you are lost. Using a mirror takes a little skill and practice but it's pretty simple.
Pepper spray is a great small, light, non-lethal weapon. It will work on a man and some animals such as a dog. My family knows one of my rules is “Never leave home without a knife, or gun” Pepper spray is an alternative to lethal weapons. They take a little training too so ask someone who may know. Do you have a friend in law enforcement? They would be able to teach you the basics of using pepper spray.
A “get home” kit could save your life at worst, or just get you home in a disaster or time of trouble.
Don't forget to rotate your food, water, medicines, and anything else that could expire. Like your personal bug out bag, a get home bag will give safety, security, and peace or mind.
This article is far from complete. Like all kit, these things are personal and should be tailored to you and your family's needs. Research and remember sometimes less is more.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-67858679254278445862022-12-07T13:35:00.005-06:002022-12-07T13:35:30.852-06:00Civilian Tactical TrainingI had a conversation with a coworker today. He is concerned about his young family. He’s a guy in his 30’s with 2 kids and one on the way. He’s got a good job and good insurance. He’s saving some money and investing in a retirement. He’s got a house that should be paid off before his retirement. He’s fairly financial secure. Now he is concerned for his family’s physical security. He’s made sure his doors have plenty of locks and has created a “panic room” for his family to go to, but feels he needs to train them. His children are young but are old enough that they can understand the need for protection without being scared. I told him it starts with he and his wife. They need weapons training. Not only safety and operation of a weapon, but using that knowledge tactically. Tactical training for civilians should be general and scenario based. Many ranges offer tactical shooting courses that provide you situations that represent more realistic scenarios, rather than just standing at one end of a range and shooting at a stationary target. Classes are often the best course for many, however, if you do have the property, or can find a place where you can lawfully fire the rounds, you may consider setting up tactical training courses of your own. Remember that the element of surprise is a huge aspect of tactical training. If you do set up your own course, you will need a partner who can change the targets and situations to create a unique training experience every time.
Tactical training requires a level of psychological involvement that is simply not applied in ordinary self-defense training approaches. Learning a specific, technical skill for defense is extremely important. But, a technical skill that is only mastered in a controlled environment is only applicable to similar controlled environments, not necessarily real world events. In order to learn a technical skill that will be helpful in any situation, you must be conditioned psychologically as well as physically. With the psychological aspect of tactical training in mind, you will practice your technical skill in a variety of anticipated states, considering factors like stress or exhaustion.
Preparing your mind for the possibility of these stressful situations will enable you to perform with greater effectiveness when an actual disaster occurs.
Not all tactical training is physical in nature, and hoplology is a great place for many beginners to start. As with most things, research can be a huge asset to a person’s self-defense repertoire. Hoplology is the study of the development of human combative behavior and performance. It is in short, the relationship between different cultures in regards to how and why we fight. Becoming a student of hoplology opens you up to a slightly different tactical approach . Taking the knowledge of why and how we fight into consideration can give you a slight advantage when engaging in combat with a potential assailant. Studying other cultures and fighting techniques can also give you an advantage when approached with any self-defense situation. Not only can you anticipate what might be coming, but you can take appropriate action to combat it as well. One of the things that helped me in combat was the chaos. I could focus on my own task at hand and block out the noise and confusion. When I was in high school my Mother couldn’t understand how I could study with music going. The chaos becomes like white noise, and I was able to concentrate on my task at hand.
No one is safe if they only learn how to protect themselves in one type of situation. That is why even if you are focusing on one specific discipline of tactical training you will find that it is both broad and inclusive of a variety of potential scenarios. Any good tactical training course will provide you with multiple situations to overcome, preparing you for a variety of both physical and psychological tasks associated with your survival. Yes, you can learn to shoot the same menacing looking targets in different orders each time at the gun range, but this only covers one scenario and is not effective tactical training. True tactical training will also call on more than one level of physical and psychological needs at any given time, to ensure you are well rounded and prepared for any situation. A good tactical training session might even appear chaotic, but they are highly structured to call on multiple skills to test a student. If you can use your range of skills to make sense and survive the situation, the chaos leaves, which is exactly what you are hoping to be able to apply to a real-life scenario.
You can help prepare your family with tactical training as well. There is a fine line between preparing and scaring your children, so always consider their age and understanding level in every training scenario. Drills, however, are important and can give you the life savings seconds you need in a disaster scenario. Many families have fire drills for instance, so considering a few potential events and outcomes that your loved ones can practice to increase your chance of survival is a form of tactical training that can keep your whole family safe and better prepared.
There are several important points in tactical training.
Avoid highly specialized training classes and events. While it is good to practice in specific ways, broad range courses are best for beginners, so you can build a solid skill set. You can go on to more specialized training down the road.
Look for a course with scenario-based training as it can help prepare you psychologically, as well as physically.
Hone your skills. One of the goals of tactical training is to take your actions from being intellectual to instinctual. If you’ve ever heard of “muscle memory” you’ll begin to understand using instincts. In high-stress situations, if you can rely on your instincts to help in your defense you have a higher chance of surviving a confrontation. Any few seconds you can spare in mental processing and decision making, due to effective, tactical training could be life-saving. Situational awareness is something you can practice away from the shooting range.
Self-defense is a lifelong journey. You must adopt it as part of your regular life and commit to continually practice if you want to truly become a master in the art of self-defense and be able to defend yourself no matter what the situation brings. This mindset is something that can be practiced off the range also.
Again I bring up the Cooper Color Codes.
Condition White is unaware and unprepared. This is a condition you should try to avoid, as it means you will probably lose a fight. The only time that I’m in condition white is when I’m asleep. And even then, I wouldn’t consider myself unprepared; I’m just unaware.
Condition Yellow is relaxed alert. Yellow means you are aware of what is happening around you, but you do not perceive a potential threat. Your mindset should be prepared to defend yourself if the need arises. Everywhere I go, I’m in Condition Yellow. I keep a pretty good watch on the people around me, and I’m continuously rating each person’s danger level in my mind.
Condition Orange means that there is a potential threat that has gotten your attention. This can be almost anything and usually results in nothing, at which time you go back to yellow. Condition Orange basically means that if someone turns and I spot a firearm. Instantly, I determine what I’m going to do if he reaches for that gun.
Condition Red means that you are in a lethal mode of mindset and will fight if the circumstances are warranted. In our make-believe scenario, the armed guy draws a gun from under his coat. At this point, I implement my action plan that was determined during Condition Orange. This doesn’t always mean fight. If there are too many innocents around or you don’t have the means, your best plan might be to wait and see what happens or even retreat and call the police.
These levels are not situational awareness levels. These are a mindset to be in always. Even when you can’t be armed.
Being tactically trained and having a security mindset is something anyone can do. It’s important in a prepared lifestyle.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-23482791670838059892022-12-02T14:12:00.002-06:002022-12-02T14:12:17.554-06:00You Have A Right To Rights!Will our gun rights be violated? They already have been. I’m not talking about gun laws, but gun confiscation. In 2005, during hurricane Katrina, police and National Guard went house-to-house and confiscated guns. It took a lawsuit to get those guns returned. Law enforcement made a feeble attempt, but they claim it’s too difficult because of so many residents misplaced because of the hurricane. Yet the NRA was able to do a pretty good job of finding these citizens.
In 2006, Congress passed the DISASTER RECOVERY PERSONAL PROTECTION ACT OF 2006. The law was intended to prevent the government from seizing legally owned firearms during the time of a disaster. It was incorporated as an amendment to the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act 2007 and signed into law on October 4, 2006.
In H.R. 5013 it states:
“(3) In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the safety of these citizens, and of their homes and property, was threatened by instances of criminal activity.
(4) Many of these citizens lawfully kept firearms for the safety of themselves, their loved ones, their businesses, and their property, as guaranteed by the Second Amendment, and used their firearms, individually or in concert with their neighbors, for protection against crime.
(5) In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, certain agencies confiscated the firearms of these citizens in contravention of the Second Amendment, depriving these citizens of the right to keep and bear arms and rendering them helpless against criminal activity.
(6) These confiscations were carried out at gunpoint by nonconsensual entries into private homes, by traffic checkpoints, by stoppage of boats, and otherwise by force.
(7) The citizens from whom firearms were confiscated were either in their own homes or attempting to flee the flooding and devastation by means of motor vehicle or boat, and were accosted, stopped, and arbitrarily deprived of their private property and means of protection.”
This is part of the Congressional record. So the politicians, Including our current President and Vice-President, have said they will not take anyone’s guns. Hopefully this law and others, will keep this from happening again. So left leaning people need to stop saying we’re paranoid, it’s already happened!
Politicians talk about countries that they want to copy as far as gun confiscation
Australia reports from the early 2000s estimate that only 20% or so of the banned firearms had been confiscated. Non-compliance is so widespread that the Australian government has seen fit to repeatedly offer extra periods of amnesty, most recently in 2016, after a government report estimated there were still 260,000 “illegal” firearms in civilian hands.
Australia similarly banned the civilian possession of most semi-automatic firearms in 1996, but the country has spent the last two decades trying—and to a significant extent, failing—to enforce it.
In Texas, Government Code Chapter 418 (EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT) permits the Governor to declare a State of Disaster which suspends certain state laws and regulations to allow local authorities to conduct rescue and recovery operations.
However, it does not allow for the seizure of any legally owned firearms,
University of Melbourne researchers Wang-Sheng Lee and Sandy Suardi concluded their 2008 report on the Australia’s debacle with the statement, “There is little evidence to suggest that [the Australian mandatory gun-buyback program] had any significant effects on firearm homicides.”
“Although gun buybacks appear to be a logical and sensible policy that helps to placate the public’s fears,” the reported continued, “the evidence so far suggests that in the Australian context, the high expenditure incurred to fund the 1996 gun buyback has not translated into any tangible reductions in terms of firearm deaths.”
The U.S. background check system prevented more than 300,000 firearm sales in 2020, a record amount indicating that nearly twice as many sales were blocked than the year before.
Citing FBI data provided by Everytown for Gun Safety, The Associated Press reported that 42 percent of those denied sales of a firearm had previous felony convictions.
The news comes as the number of potential gun buyers increased over the past two years from 0.6 percent to 0.8 percent, according to AP.
One expert told the wire service that the increase in declined sales may be due to the fact that first-time buyers who have a previous conviction are unaware that they are legally prohibited from owning guns.
“Some may have a felony conviction on their record and not think about it,” UCLA law professor Adam Winkler, who specializes in gun policy, told the AP.
Winkler added that although making a false statement in a background check is a felony punishable by prison time, most are not prosecuted for essentially lying on a form filled out before making a purchase.
U.S. gun sales surged during the COVID-19 pandemic last year. CNN reported that around 23 million guns were sold in 2020, a 65 percent increase from 2019, when 13.9 million guns were sold.
Of those who were prevented from purchasing guns, 16 percent were blocked by state laws and 12 percent were blocked due to reasons related to domestic violence, according to the AP.
“There’s no question that background checks work, but the system is working overtime to prevent a record number of people with dangerous prohibitors from being able to buy firearms,” Everytown research director Sarah Burd-Sharps said. “The loopholes in the law allow people to avoid the system, even if they just meet online or at a gun show for the first time.”
The “loop-hole” she’s talking about is private sales. I’m sure Sarah is appalled at this practice but she is unaware of the black market guns that are out there. These are illegal guns being sold to illegal buyers. Regardless of law, this black market will always exist. Sarah also thinks that private sellers don’t care who they sell to. She is wrong. I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t care what is done with the gun that they sell. I know that I don’t want a knock on my door from law enforcement asking about a gun I no longer own. I don’t do background checks but I ask for personal information like a social security number and a drivers license. I like to have an idea who I’m dealing with. I also require a bill of sale and always ask if they have a concealed carry license. If they have a CC license at least I am assured they passed a back ground check. What Sarah doesn’t realize is how easy it is to find a black-market gun with no questions asked. This is usually an illegal sale but not necessarily. Banning the gun does not work. Confiscation does not work. The cat is already out of the bag with confiscation. More people trained and carrying would help. Background checks help but they will not cure what ills us. We have a problem with people. It won’t change with banning. It will change with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Not to get religious but this is the only true cure. Everything else is a band aid. Changing the way we think, how we handle stress, and how we act toward each other. These things will change a lot of this violence. But as one who has experienced his fair share of being involved with violence and evil, I’m here to tell you and Sarah that you can not stop it. I don’t understand the logic of making laws to stop law breakers.
Some people don’t understand rights. These are not man-made even though men enacted the constitution. When I say God-given rights I’m saying that despite the affairs of mankind, despite human history, despite what you may want or I may want, despite the realities of our society, certain qualities of life are the birthright of every living soul. Defending ourselves and our families from those who would harm us IS a God-given right. How we do that may be disputed. I’m not sure of a better way to do this than with a gun. Other weapons are a possibility, but they do not address a threat the same way. This is why this amendment is in the bill of rights. You can’t just say “Oh you don’t need that anymore.” This right will always exist in spite of the above threats of gun control. Law enforcement is not the answer. Unless a cop lives with you, they cannot protect you. When seconds count, the police are minutes away.
If we don’t pay attention to our rights they will be shaken and taken. Always be aware of what is happening to our rights.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-3929400309395036762022-09-29T18:44:00.003-05:002023-06-21T11:25:37.776-05:00Becoming A Danite (Updated DEC 2022)Many years ago I was a full time missionary. This was in the dinosaur days before the internet. In those two years I was exposed to a lot of anti-mormon literature. I had a collection, at the suggestion of one of the assistants to the President. I started to throw it all in a shoe box (of which none of it was worthy.) I didn’t spend much time looking at it or studying it, in fact some of it I had never read. I learned this about anti-mormon information. It is all the same. They find some obscure thing and harp away at it until it is their obsession. I could say the same thing about this modern day group of anti-mormons. Nothing has changed, they just moved to the internet. I tell you, I do not go looking for this stuff. It always finds me. My wife calls me an anti magnet. She’s always asking how I find this stuff. I do not seek it, but it does find me.
Let me change gears here. I am a gun guy. Through childhood experience with guns and hunting, and then experience in the military, I’ve become a gun guy. I like guns. I don’t think I’m obsessed, even though I think I like to sound like I’m obsessed. I still have other things in my life. My family, the church, music, our homestead, all these things can occupy my life. In the early part of my military life I qualified for some courses that the military doesn’t just give out to people. I changed my job in the military because I wanted a little less danger, I had a family. But because the military went through the trouble of letting me qualify for this training they wanted to use their resource the best that they could. So, they followed through on sending me to training that was related, but not required for the job I had changed to. In the process, I met some outstanding guys and also had some opportunities I took advantage of. I figured if the military was going to use the heck out of me, I may as well use the heck out of them! There was less pressure to do well in the training! In that process I became a weapons instructor even though my job did not normally become a weapons instructor. I enjoyed some of the training and schools because I didn’t care whether I did that great in this training. I mean I did my best, but if I actually did not do well it would not affect my job. Because of this training, I held SEI’s (Special Experience Identifier) that actually got me in trouble. I was sent to some places I really would not have wanted to be. I went through some combat experiences that taught me something about myself.
So what do these 2 things have to do with each other? One is I have become a defender. I have defended my country and family. I also defend my church. I’m not talking about grabbing a weapon and standing a post. I’m talking about identifying threats, and fortifying against them. I see many threats to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mostly it is sin. Sin can threaten the members of this church. We need to fortify against sin by learning of Christ and living as close as we can to His life and keeping Heavenly Father’s commandments and covenants. But I also feel drawn to defend the church against those who try to pull the faithful away and those who try to sully the Church’s name. This means identifying those who fight against the Church. Most of them are “Zarahemnah’s”, those who were members but now fight against it. Zarahemnah was a ex-Nephite in the Book of Mormon who fought against the Nephites and those who were trying follow Christ in His church. There are also some “members” who stay in the Church to fight against it. Some of them are hidden, some are in the open. You can identify Zarahemnahs because often they have left the church but not necessasarily. The first thing they will tell you is they’ll give you their “church resume”. “I’ve grown up in the church.” I had this calling or that calling. They must establish that they were faithful and experienced in the church. Then some traumatic thing drove them away. This frustrates me because my “church resume” is long and wonderful too. I’ve had crazy things happen to me yet I am still here.
The Danites were a group of members in church history who were vigilantes. There are those who say Joseph Smith endorsed their lawless and evil actions. It was a volatile time in the church. Members were being persecuted, killed, and driven out of places they tried to colonize. Missouri had an extermination order on “Mormons”. Missouri’s Governor Boggs directed that "the Mormons must be treated as enemies, and must be exterminated or driven from the State if necessary for the public peace—their outrages are beyond all description". You can understand how violence can come out of this from both sides. Governor Boggs executive order was only rescinded in 1975! It was issued in 1838. It took 137 years to rescind this ridiculous order. So when someone (usually an anti-mormon) gripes to you as a member about the secret Danites, remind them of a government willing to exterminate a people. I’m not saying anything evil or lawless is justified, but if something like this happened now we would have an uprising.
I’ve been called a modern Danite. I don’t picture myself as this but I can see why some might name me that. I am not a member of a secret organization that assassinates those who oppose the church. But that would be cool wouldn’t it? I am just kidding people. I hope you can appreciate dark humor. I am not looking to kill anyone. I am not looking for violence of any kind. Let me tell you another story.
There is a family in my ward who I have known for a long time. We come from a similar background and are both from Arizona. This family is a wonderful faithful family. One of their sons went through a divorce and met a sister in our ward that he actually knew for many years. She too had gone through a divorce. Her divorce was bitter. I knew the guy she had married and was her priesthood leader when they got married. He is no good. My wife thinks if I ever see this guys face again that I’ll beat him to a pulp. Maybe. Probably not. After this bitter divorce this ex-husband was a real jerk to his ex-wife and their children. He was a snake and even caused my old family friend and the snakes ex-wife (they married) some great legal problems. He even came looking for his children he thought he should have had for the weekend at church and caused a problem there. (I was out of town at the time. I’m so grateful because I probably would have beat the guy up and ended up in jail.) Anyway, I met this guy alone in the hall of our ward one day. He lives in another city a few hours away so I don’t see him often, thank goodness. But as we passed I stopped and I told him I was on to him. He played innocent, but I knew better. I told him that I knew exactly what he was doing to his ex wife and children. I told him he was trying to convince anyone who would listen that he just wanted the best for his kids. I told him that I was watching him and that he should be careful and watch for me. It was intimidating but I didn’t actually threaten him. I just wanted him to know that he wasn’t fooling me.
This is the way I feel about some people who are staying in the church to cause havoc. Some of them are open about what they are doing and some are not. To those who are doing this openly I say, “I see you, and if you don’t cause problems you’re welcome. The moment you start trouble, it’s my job to show you the door.” I know some would say that’s not very Christlike of you, and I can see their point. But I’ve watched people bent on fighting the church cause a lot of problems in a ward. I say, and this is just me, there’s no place for you here. If you’re not genuinely trying to learn or have your questions answered, or you’re bent on trying to disparage leadership both local and in Salt Lake, then out with you! If your purpose is to tear down the church and its leaders I don’t want you here at church. There are those who would do this openly, but some do it covertly. In my experience you’re not that hard to spot. I will defend the church with words or with the tools I have learned through the years. Your choice. If that makes me a modern Danite then so be it. I’m not a murderer and I actually am not a fighter, but I am a warrior. I strive to be as Moroni. I’ve never been a man of blood. I do know there are others like me out there. You are ex military or law enforcement and you have a hard time abiding those who think they can do what they want in this church and not get any push back. Most members are not like me, thank goodness. They lead quiet lives serving and giving. They are not acquainted with violence and have never been hardened by it. It is OK. That is a very good life. Sometimes I wish my life was more that way. Because they are meek and humble people they can get abused easily. I will not allow that. The anti-mormons and predators that try to infiltrate and tear down the church will be eliminated. No, I’m not talking about murder, but I can help you to see that you would be more comfortable away from the church and its members. I understand that many of these ne’er-do-wells have friends and family who are active members. I get that, but what I’m talking about is the general population of wards and stakes. There are others out there like me. We should get together and compare notes and strategies. I’m not talking about organizing and certainly not in secret, but I wish there was a place we could go to communicate. I’m not sure that would go over well even with Salt Lake. I know the anti’s would accuse us of all kinds of things. Just look what happens to Dez Nat and those associated with something as innocuous as a hash tag. I didn’t mean for this to be a rant so I hope that it is not. I just desire to know if my PTSD is making me completely crazy or not. But if I am a modern day Danite, then I’ll be the best one I can be!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
PS
If you are like me I would like to hear from you. Do not worry if your are not ex-LE or ex-military, there are those kindred spirits out there without that burden of being "ex" anything. I said that I wanted to communitcate with those of the above mind set. Email me at: burningbush8@hotmail.com. It would be interesting to have a modest list of us crazies in the Church!
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-34739783390775364202022-09-09T23:29:00.007-05:002022-09-09T23:29:41.447-05:00Concealed Carry Myths (Reprint from May 21, 2014)I seem to get a lot of questions about concealed carry. Many involve these 5 myths.
“But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.” (D&C 9:8)<br />
This is a scripture we have read and heard many times. There is a lot in this scripture and a great story behind it. But I think this scripture also says, “Don’t believe everything you read or hear. Weigh it to see if it is right or applies to you. If you feel a need, pray concerning it. Now when I was choosing a gun for concealed carry I didn’t pray about it (although I don’t see anything wrong with praying for direction). But I did take the things I read on the internet with a grain of salt. There are some people I trust on the internet. I’ve followed certain people on youtube channels or websites for some time. I trust them because they have proven their opinion to me for years. I only go to forums for a quick overall view. These are some myths I’ve read about but do not agree with. As in all things, even my opinion isn’t worth much. Do your own research and see for yourself. <br />
1. Carry the smallest gun you can find <br />
Almost every gun maker has made a sub-compact handgun. There are many out there but you need to find a gun that fits you. One size does not fit all! My son loves Rugers. So he naturally bought an LC9. He hates it! He’s a pretty big guy with big hands. The LC9 is just too small for him to be comfortable. He needs a compact not a sub-compact. Some people carry a full sized 1911 and have no problem with it. Me? I’m a sub-compact guy. Smaller and lighter is what I want. Everyone is different so a blanket statement like one size fits all is the best, is just absolutely wrong. Some like subs because they are easy to conceal. But subs hold less ammo. Full sized guns have a larger ammo capacity, but they are more difficult to conceal. Find out what will work for you! Make sure it’s comfortable because if it is not, you’ll be less apt to carry it. The gun also must be easy for you to shoot. Like the 3 bears, not too big and not too small, but just right.<br />
2. Make sure you carry without a round in the chamber to be safe!<br />
This is the most ridicules thing I have ever heard! If you feel this way just leave your gun in the safe!<br />
Unless you carry a 50 year old weapon I don’t think you need to worry about your gun going off unless you press the trigger. Without a charged weapon (round in the chamber) you would have to rack the slide. Contrary to movies and TV, that is just too time consuming. If you are drawing your weapon you are ready to use it. How can you be ready to use it if you have to operate it to get it ready? If you accept the responsibility of carrying a deadly weapon then you have a responsibility to carry it safely. Let me be clear about this. Not having a round in the chamber could get you killed. That’s only my opinion.<br />
3. Those who are new to concealed carry should carry a revolver.<br />
I love revolvers! There are some great ones out there. They are quite reliable and easy to operate. But as for that style of weapon to be used by those new to carrying a gun, I don’t think so. I’m not sure it takes a whole lot more experience or intelligence to operate a semi-auto as opposed to a revolver. I wouldn’t discount any gun until I found out what worked for me. With any weapon training is needed. Revolvers carry less ammo but are simple to operate. But semi autos may be just as simple with the right training. Again, try a variety of weapons and calibers you think would work for you. Being comfortable with a particular gun will help you to be accurate and confident.<br />
4. This caliber is better than that caliber<br />
It would not be a bad thing to learn a little about ammunition. Are you better protected with one caliber over another? Of course not! I can tell you this, a well placed shot is better than a bazooka. We maybe not a bazooka but you get my drift. A .380 between the eyes is much better than one hit in the arm from a .45. The idea is to stop the threat. I don’t put a lot of stock into stopping power. A well placed shot is what I look for. So get out there and practice!<br />
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5. You shouldn’t carry a gun without a safety<br />
As I’ve trained many and as I’ve been trained in the military, my trigger finger is my safety. I don’t like manual safeties. Especially on a concealed carry gun. I want to pull my weapon and shoot. I want to keep it as simple as I can. But as in all things, if you feel more secure with a safety, by all means use one. I can’t tell you how often I’ve thought the safety was off at the range and failed to shoot because the safety was on doing it’s job. Just imagine if you thought the opposite and needed that gun to work! Just remember when you practice with a weapon that has a safety to include putting the safety on and off so you won’t have that problem.<br />
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Remember, learn all you can. Ask instructors and those who have been around the gun world a while. Take as much training as you can. Don’t just believe everything you read or hear. Find out for yourself. If you will follow certain sites on the internet you will quickly find out which one you can trust. Especially be wary of mainstream media. I’ve taught my kids “No truth in the news, no news in the truth.” There are other myths out there. The challenge is to recognize them and discard them.<br />
<br />
Semper Paratus<br />
Burn<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-33839026991881135542022-09-09T22:25:00.004-05:002023-08-30T17:42:06.026-05:00Bishops and Security: Comment ReplyBack in February I wrote an article titled “Condition Yellow”. There was a comment by archerytom. This was his comment:
“I was recently called to be assistant emergency preparedness and comms specialist for our Ward. My partner and I had a brief interview with our Bishop a few weeks after I received the call. We sat to discuss, security measures for our Ward. Long and short, we were told, "No Way!" Long and short of it, the meeting did not go as we had hoped, not that we wanted roving armed patrols, far from it. But, what we did want was a team of trained observers that would know what signals to use, alarms to sound etc. IF, and potentially when, an emergency situation presented itself. In other words, we were told that the Brethren all but demand that when we are on Church properties, we are to stay in condition white to very "pale" yellow. His counsel, as well as the previous Bishop was, that we should be prepared but NOT to go on an offensive even IF there is an active shooter. We were told that we have chairs to throw, hymn books to throw and pews to hide beneath plus, we have strength in numbers. Meaning a bum's rush/dogpile on the rabbit. We asked about being in condition yellow, and he said, that on an individual level as heads of our families, "that's a decision we each need to make," but as far as being "sheepdogs" in our Ward, it's not permitted. I am curious and anxiously solicit your thoughts on this. I know you are getting only my perspective of this and yes I condensed it down as much as absolutely possible to get the gist of what I was hoping to convey out. Don't get me wrong here, in no way am I disparaging or "knocking" on our Bishop, he read much of what he conveyed to us right out of the handbook. He said that in his personal family, in his home, or when he is with his family, he plays by his own rules of conviction. But as far as the Ward/Stake meetings and functions and activities go, we must adhere to policy from the Brethren. I can't argue with that one point but still....”
I want to answer this comment. First, I apologize archerytom for taking so long to give my take on your situation. There are many things to consider in your ward and with your leadership. May I say that I was a Bishop so I can identify with your, and other Bishops. I appreciate his view of wanting to follow the brethren. I have no problem with that, we all should. And as far as a Bishop, he does represent the Church. But, the problem I have with the answer your Bishop gave is I feel it is somewhat of a “cop out”. I see it all the time. As a Bishop I just about memorized that handbook. I wanted to follow direction. I felt the weight of the calling and I didn’t want to mess up. I now think differently. I was interviewing a brother who had just been called as a General Authority. I recognized that this interview would be one that I would probably never do again. I wanted to glean as much wisdom from this good brother as I could in this one-on-one situation. As we talked and I expressed my thoughts on my calling and my ward he said something that changed how I feel about policy and handbooks. He said, “I was a Bishop for 13 years. I knew what Church policy was and what the handbook said, but that was not my first “go to”. When I needed to make decisions, I counseled with those I needed to counsel with, auxiliary Presidents or my counselors, and then I went by the Spirit. I can tell you that the Spirit told me more than once to do something that was the opposite of what the handbook told me. Those decisions were the best ones I ever made. They impacted the most lives and helped the most people. Go by the Spirit!” I heard that counsel after being a Bishop for about 8
months. I can tell you from personal experience that his counsel was the best thing I could have followed to be the best leader the Lord needed me to be.
Now, I’m not saying that your Bishop archerytom is not following the Spirit. What I am saying is that he should have told you, the preparedness specialists whom he called and set apart, who had a legitimate concern that was in their purview as preparedness specialists, that he would talk to his counselors, pray and then get back to you. To say “no” without thought, counsel, or prayer tells me he goes by the book, rather than by the Spirit. I’m not saying a leader should shoot for a course that bucks the system, but you guys were talking about the safety and security of the members of your ward! Why would you be so flippant about that? But I also recognize that your Bishop is probably a humble, good, dentist. Or manager. Or some vocation that is far away from violence or even security. Violence and events like unto violence are probably far from his experience. So without that, comes a less than expeditious attitude about security. Not that you have to be real experienced with violence to be security minded, but often there is what is called the normalcy bias. Or, “It won’t happen in our ward” type of attitude. It doesn’t happen to you until it does. I have been acquainted with violence since I got jumped in Junior High after an activity. It seems to find me, I never look for it. I embrace the suck, and try to be better prepared for it. But I can tell you prevention is so much better than reaction.
I happen to be in a ward that has many law enforcement. Federal, state, and local. These good people make up our “security team”. This is a loose term. The one thing our Bishop did was get everyone in the same place at one time to talk about security. Also, he asked these brothers and sisters to take note of where other law enforcement are to “team up” if needed. They meet once a quarter to touch base and they are part of a Telegram group online.
My opinion of security at Church is pretty clear. I have written many posts concerning it. These are a few:
My Suggestions For Church Defense Oct 9, 2019
What, Me Worry? Security At Church Sep 20, 2019
Current State Of Our Lives: Church Security Nov 11, 2017
Choirboy and Burn's List of Security At Church Aug 23, 2017
Carrying At Church Jan 22, 2016
How To Achieve Security At Church May 28, 2015
Mormons: Low Standards of Security Aug 4, 2014
Protection in Church Jan 29, 2014
There are other posts but this will definitely tell you where I stand on it. I feel we are too familiar and comfortable at church. We should be to some extent, but being aware and doing some things to mitigate the soft target is what I would suggest. And leaders, follow the Spirit and quit leaning everything you do on a handbook. Sheepdogs are permitted at church, but they must be law enforcement. Why we think law enforcement has a corner on this training and experience is beyond me. I’ve trained many in law enforcement who were less than stellar about their own preparedness to stop a threat. But unarmed people being aware and being organized to help others to “Run, Hide, Fight” (RHF) would be the least anyone should do. Just remember that RHF is not a checklist from one step to the next. The first thing that members should do is have a security mindset. The second is situational awareness. This can be done without packing an M4 and being paranoid. Although I would be remiss if I did not mention my opinion on concealed carry in a church building. Like many misguided individuals the church thinks the police can protect the members. Unless they happen to be a member of a congregation and they are actually carrying, they will not be much use. Like our government leaders the brethren are protected by guns but will not let the members protect themselves with a gun. Please do not think I do not sustain our leadership, I do. But this policy is a disaster waiting to happen. I predict it will happen one day. It kind of already has. I track violence in church buildings, mostly in the U.S. but there is some in other countries.
Violence
“2 Shot Dead In Mormon Library”
April 16, 1999
OAKLAND, CA— A Washington man with a history of attacking religious statues was arrested Thursday night after using a large ax to hack pieces off the hand of a Jesus statue at the Oakland Mormon Temple, police said.
December 9, 2004
Lehi, UT
“Woman shot to death outside church”
January 6th, 2008
Vasalia, CA
“Mormon bishop fatally shot in California chapel; gunman killed”
Aug. 30 2010
South Jordan, UT (Oquirrh Mountain Temple)
“Police shoot armed man outside LDS temple”
December 26, 2010
Columbus, OH (Columbus Temple)
“Police: 2 Shot In Parking Lot Of West Side Mormon Temple”
February 26, 2013
Las Vegas, NV (Las Vegas Temple)
“Son of judge killed himself in Las Vegas LDS temple courtyard”
Nov. 20 2013
SLC, UT
“Woman shot outside of church in South Salt Lake”
October 17, 2014
EAGAR, Arizona — An Arizona man is dead and two others injured — including a pregnant woman — after he began shooting at a LDS stake center in Eagar, Arizona, and later at his residence, officials say.
“Suspect killed by police after shooting at Mormon stake center”
May 24 2015
OAKLEY, CA — Two people were shot, and another bludgeoned multiple times, during a large fight between two groups outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while Sunday service was getting out, police said.
June 28, 2015
GILBERT, Ariz. - Gilbert police are looking Wednesday morning for the three men involved in shooting a 19-year-old man at an LDS church Tuesday night.
April 20, 2016
Smithfield, UT
“Police have arrested a 30-year-old Smithfield man, Jason Summers, who is accused of shooting at someone while trying to break into an LDS Church, Thursday night.”
July 8, 2016
Solon, OH
An officer saw a man sitting in his car beside the LDS church. As the officer approached, the man jumped out of his car, ran into the trees and shot himself. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
August 2016
SLC, UT
A meth purchase gone bad led to a vehicle chase and shooting. The fleeing vehicle went into the parking lot of an LDS church as the aggressors caught up to them and continued shooting at them. The victims tried to break into the church to get away which prompted a burglar alarm & police came. Nobody was hit by the gunfire.
June 2016
Amarillo, TX
A 23-year-old man shot another man nearly a month before that Wednesday when he was injured in another gun battle. The man walked over a mile to get away from the scene where he knew police would be looking for him. He chose to hide behind an outside wall of the LDS church, where an observant officer noticed his leg sticking out. The man refused orders to show himself, and when the first thing officers saw was his gun they opened fire on him. He was hit but will survive.
June 2016
Vancouver, WA
As a group was in the LDS Church playing basketball, someone broke out a window in the other end of the church, entered the building, and set books and the podium on fire. The guys playing basketball smelled the smoke and discovered the fire, putting it out before anyone got hurt.
April 2016
Herriman, UT
A 12-year-old boy was playing in the parking lot of the LDS church when a man pulled up in his car and tried to convince the boy to get in with him. The boy ran off and police have been looking for the potential abductor.
March 2016
Idaho Falls, ID
A man’s estranged wife showed up at his funeral at an LDS Chapel and became angry. The bishop asked her to please not say those things, and she pulled out a gun and began to threaten the funeral attendees. Everyone got out safely, and police arrived to disarm and arrest her.
January 2016
Rigby, ID
Around 10:25 PM that Friday night police responded to the parking lot of an LDS church on reports of gunfire. Police found a shattered window at the church, then arrested a man a short time later based on descriptions given by witnesses.
January 2016
Riverside, CA - Girl abducted from Mormon Church sexually assaulted in dumpster
June 28, 2017
SLC, UT
A woman rebuked another woman for parking in a handicap spot without a sticker. The driver drove up beside her in the parking lot of the LDS Church and threw a Slushy in her face, then ran over her breaking both her legs. Police continue to look for the Cadillac Escalade driver.
April 2017
Kalamazoo, MI
A woman was in the LDS church parking lot when she was confronted by a man demanding her car keys. She refused, so he punched her repeatedly in the face and took it anyway. She had no idea it was at the end of a violent crime spree including armed robbery, arson, and another woman shot in her home.
January 2017
San Diego, CA
On November 29 (2017) a jihadist media group published an image suggesting San Diego could be in the crosshairs of terrorists this holiday season. The San Diego California Temple in University City appears to be their target of choice. An image of a terrorist holding an assault rifle was superimposed on the Mormon temple, which appears to be on fire. The two towering spires rise up on either side of the jihadist. A statement at the bottom of the image reads, “Coming Soon.. San Diego.” The words “Coming Soon” are wrapped in Christmas decorations and splattered with red.
November 2017
Newberry Township, Pennsylvania
A shooting on Friday, March 30, at a church in Newberry Township was ruled a suicide by the York County coroner.
“Police were on the scene at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 800 Pleasant Drive, in the township when a coroner was dispatched about 6 p.m. for a report of a possible self-inflicted fatality, according to a coroner's report.”
March 2018
ST. GEORGE, Utah — A Mormon church spokesman says an intruder broke into a church temple in southern Utah and damaged furniture, artwork and other items before being stopped by church workers and arrested by police.
Eric Hawkins of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says the St. George Temple resumed normal operations after the incident Saturday morning.
Hawkins says the intruder damaged items as he made his way to the temple’s fifth floor and caused additional damage there.
(This is not physical violence. But the guy had to have had something in his hand to do this damage. And he made it to the 5th Floor!) May 2018
Fallon, NV
On Sunday, a middle-aged Mormon man went into the LDS chapel where his ward was having sacrament meeting, and sat quietly for part of the service. Then he opened fire, killing one ward member and wounding another.
July 22, 2018.
Goiania, Brazil
Five people were injured in a mass knife attack at a meetinghouse in Goiânia, Brazil
December 2, 2018
St George, UT
A gunman fired his weapon at a group of individuals at a meetinghouse parking lot
July 23, 2019
Sao Paolo, Brazil
A missionary training center was infiltrated by an intruder armed with a knife; the intruder was shot and killed by police
February 5, 2020
Provo, UT
A gunman fired shots at the Church's missionary training center in Provo, Utah
August 3, 2020
Torreon, Mexico– Two men carrying firearms entered a meetinghouse in Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico during a zone conference among the missionaries of the Church in that area. The two men demanded cell phones, tablets, and wallets, assaulting some of the missionaries in the process; the mission president and his wife were also assaulted and threatened with a knife.
November 12, 2021
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A missionary with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is in serious condition after being shot multiple times Friday at a church site in Alabama.
December 3, 2021
This list is a cursory “Google” search on the internet. My guess is there is more that I have not seen. I don’t give this list to scare anyone. Indeed, I only do it to help support the idea that violence can and does happen at Church buildings everywhere. It should be noted and prepared for instead of reacted to.
Thanks archerytom for your comment, and for being interested in my little blog.
Stay safe!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-86470071090169061652022-09-04T17:53:00.006-05:002022-09-04T17:53:45.598-05:00Power and AlternativesPower
This morning my alarm went off as usual. I lay in bed listening to our dog bark at something. About 1 minute later the power went off. I got up and called the power company to report the outage. As I drove in to work I thought about our dependence on electricity. What could you do in your home without electricity? Can you cook? Would you have heat or water? Would your toilets work? We have tried to answer these questions with alternatives. We can cook on our propane stove in the kitchen. Or we have a wood stove, for heat and cooking. We have a solar oven that my wife has cooked in regularly. This not only saves propane, it=s free and the experience is invaluable. We have a generator with gasoline storage. We have solar lights that also can recharge our rechargeable batteries for flashlights and other devices. We have a few crank generator flashlights that can also recharge our cell phones. We even have an old fashioned hard line cord phone so that we don=t need electricity if the phone lines are up. We have various camping stoves, a traditional white gas stove, a wood powered rocket stove, and small backpacking stoves. We have hurricane lamps that run off of kerosene, and camping lanterns that run off of white gas, and of course, candles. We also have various power tools that run off of gasoline. Even with all these things, I want more. We=re looking into wind power and solar power. There is water power if you have access to running water. On top of the alternatives we have, we still have conventional batteries, car batteries, and water storage. We try to keep spare parts for motors, plumbing and electrical parts, and building materials around. We also have a variety of manuals and books to help us in our fixing or building projects. All these things support living off the grid.
Living without electricity requires forethought and preparedness. Items need to be purchased a little at a time. We=ve been doing this for most of our married life. Some things require more planning than others. I would suggest a few things you can do now. Find a container such as a 5 gallon bucket and lid. If you don=t have a spare home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowe=s carry them for a small price. Start to fill this container with boxes of matches. There are several kinds on the market, stick or book, safety or strike anywhere. Also lighters should be included in this container. As you purchase these items put them in your container and you=ll be surprised how fast it adds up.
Look at your situation. How do you receive water? Is it through a municipal system or your own well? What alternate heat sources do you have? What about light? What about cooking? These answered should be answered with several answers. Redundancy is king and if one solution fails, you=ll need another. Find solutions that you can work on and put it on a schedule. If it=s the purchase of an expensive item, save for it slowly and stay in your budget. I strongly discourage going into debt for any of your preparedness items including food storage. If you need to use credit for short term purchases be very careful it does not turn into long term.
On occasion, test your program. Live a weekend with your power turned off. If you do this your eyes will be opened to where your program has holes. Involve the whole family. It can actually be a good and fun experience if you look at it that way. Doing this will also give you experience with the items and equipment you have. Remember that safety is very important. Open flames are very dangerous and should not be left unattended. Camping stoves and hurricane lamps use up oxygen so always have ventilation. Never run a generator indoors. Keep fire and fire making materials away from children and pets. Do your smoke or CO2 alarms run off of batteries or hard wire power? You may need battery power for these items too.
Speaking of pets, do you have a contingency plan for your pets? They will need food, water, medicines, and anti-insect sprays and powder. If you want your pets to survive with you have a plan for them too.
As you test your Aoff the grid@ preparations you could also incorporate your 72 hour kit plans into that exercise. You don=t have to use your all your 72 hour kit items but finding our operational details would help you in your knowledge of your system, and to know what may not work.
We=ve mentioned many things but here is a list of considerations:
Remember my favorite acronym for emergency and survival priority: SWiFFS (Shelter, Water, Food, Fire, Security)
Shelter: We assume you are in shelter because the electricity is out. Replace shelter with heat.
Heat: How will you stay out of the elements? Either stay cool or stay warm, or stay dry.
Water: Where will you get it and if it needs to be purified, how will you do that?
Food: How will you and yours eat? How will you cook food if you have it?
Fire: Heat, see above. Food, see above.
Security: How will you keep you and yours safe either from animal or human preditors?
Power blackout B general suggestionsSuggestions include:
Have an emergency kit prepared. (Either a shelter in place kit or your 72 hour kit)
Switch off all electrical appliances, especially those that have heating elements.
Unplug >surge-sensitive= equipment, such as computers and video recorders.
Keep one light switch turned on so you know when the power returns.
Telephone your electricity provider for updates on the status of the blackout.
Turn on a battery-operated radio and listen to a local radio station for information.
Check on your neighbors to see if they need assistance, particularly if they are elderly or have a disability.
Heat and lightSuggestions include:
Multiple layers of clothing trap body heat more efficiently than one bulky layer.
The body loses a great deal of heat through the scalp so wear a hat.
Close doors, windows and blinds to maintain heat.
Flashlights are much safer sources of light than candles. Make sure you have a good stock of batteries.
If you must use candles, keep them away from drafts and away from children.
Be aware of fire hazards B keep candles away from curtains and other flammable objects.
Make sure to extinguish all candles before retiring for the night.
This morning my alarm went off as usual. I lay in bed listening to our dog bark at something outside. About 1 minute later the power went off. I got up and called the power company to report the outage. As I drove in to work I thought about our dependence on electricity. What could you do in your home without electricity? Can you cook? Would you have heat or water? Would your toilets work? We have tried to answer these questions with alternatives. We can cook on our propane stove in the kitchen. Or we have a wood stove, for heat and cooking. We have a solar oven that my wife has cooked in regularly. This not only saves propane, it=s free and the experience is invaluable. We have a generator with gasoline storage. We have solar lights that also can recharge our rechargeable batteries for flashlights and other devices. We have a few crank generator flashlights that can also recharge our cell phones. We even have an old fashioned hard line cord phone so that we don=t need electricity if the phone lines are out. We have various camping stoves, a traditional white gas stove, a wood powered rocket stove, and small backpacking stoves. We have hurricane lamps that run off of kerosene, and camping lanterns that run off of white gas, and of course, candles. We also have various power tools that run off of gasoline. Even with all these things, I want more. We=re looking into wind power and solar power. There is water power if you have access to running water. On top of the alternatives we have, we still have conventional batteries, car batteries, and water storage. We try to keep spare parts for motors, plumbing and electrical parts, and building materials around. We also have a variety of manuals and books to help us in our fixing or building projects. All these things support living off the grid.
Living without electricity requires forethought and preparedness. Items need to be purchased a little at a time. We=ve been doing this for most of our married life. Some things require more planning than others. I would suggest a few things you can do now. Find a container such as a 5 gallon bucket and lid. If you don=t have a spare home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowe=s carry them for a small price. Start to fill this container with boxes of matches. There are several kinds on the market, stick or book, safety or strike anywhere. Also lighters should be included in this container. As you purchase these items put them in your container and you=ll be surprised how fast it adds up.
Look at your situation. How do you receive water? Is it through a municipal system or your own well? What alternate heat sources do you have? What about light? What about cooking? These questions should be answered with several answers. Redundancy is king and if one solution fails, you=ll need another. Find solutions that you can work on and put it on a schedule. If it=s the purchase of an expensive item, save for it slowly and stay in your budget. I strongly discourage going into debt for any of your preparedness items including food storage. If you need to use credit for short term purchases be very careful it does not turn into long term.
On occasion, test your program. Live a weekend with your power turned off. If you do this your eyes will be opened to where your program has holes. Involve the whole family. It can actually be a good and fun experience if you look at it that way. Doing this will also give you experience with the items and equipment you have. Remember that safety is very important. Open flames are very dangerous and should not be left unattended. Camping stoves and hurricane lamps use up oxygen so always have ventilation. Never run a generator indoors. Keep fire and fire making materials away from children and pets. Do your smoke or CO2 alarms run off of batteries or hard wire power? You may need battery power for these items too.
Speaking of pets, do you have a contingency plan for your pets? They will need food, water, medicines, and anti-insect sprays and powder. If you want your pets to survive with you have a plan for them too.
As you test your "off the grid" preparations you could also incorporate your 72 hour kit plans into that exercise. You don=t have to use all your 72 hour kit items but finding operational details would help you in your knowledge of your system, and to know what may work and not work.
We=ve mentioned many things but here is a list of considerations:
Remember my favorite acronym for emergency and survival priority: SWiFFS (Shelter, Water, Food, Fire, Security)
Shelter: We assume you are in shelter because the electricity is out. Replace shelter with heat.
Heat: How will you stay out of the elements? Either stay cool or stay warm, or stay dry.
Water: Where will you get it and if it needs to be purified, how will you do that?
Food: How will you and yours eat? How will you cook food if you have it?
Fire: Heat, see above. Food, see above.
Security: How will you keep you and yours safe either from animal or human predators?
Power blackout B general suggestions
Suggestions include:
Have an emergency kit prepared. (Either a shelter in place kit or your 72 hour kit)
Switch off all electrical appliances, especially those that have heating elements.
Unplug >surge-sensitive= equipment, such as computers and video recorders.
Keep one light switch turned on so you know when the power returns.
Telephone your electricity provider for updates on the status of the blackout.
Turn on a battery-operated radio and listen to a local radio station for information.
Check on your neighbors to see if they need assistance, particularly if they are elderly or have a disability.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-91190427260767922372022-09-04T17:15:00.007-05:002023-08-30T18:01:03.885-05:00"Experts" (Reprint from Oct 14, 2016)I was at the range one day and had just finished my work out. I was putting things in my range bag when a few cars drove up and parked next to my truck. Out jumped about 6 people with some gun cases and ammo boxes. They came up to me and asked if I was their instructor. I told them I was not “I don’t have a class today” were my words. They said “So you are an instructor?” I said “Yes.” They started to pepper me with questions. I finally said, “Your instructor should have told you that…” In the course of talking I found that this was indeed their 3rd class with this particular instructor. <br />
This reminded me of a story I recently read about an experience another instructor had.<br />
<br />
“Recently I was asked to ‘baby sit’ (my words) a fellow who was teaching a handgun class at a range where I serve as a Range Safety Officer. I was to give an impromptu safety talk and then observe the class for a while to determine if they could be left on their own or needed watching. They needed watching. Boy Oh Boy, Did they need watching.<br />
Before they started I asked questions to get a feel for their experience and training. I was told that ‘most’ of the four students had trained under this instructor before. The instructor did have a large emblem on the back of his jacket showing his certification as an instructor, issued from a large well known organization, no less. This instructor informed me that these students were all at the ‘intermediate’ level, he then added that this was because they had all attended a concealed weapon class. The class, I believe, he had taught.<br />
Among them one had a medium frame revolver, another a small Glock, another a small oddball copy of the Colt ‘1911’, I don’t recall what semi-auto the other fellow had. Two of the semi-auto shooters didn’t remember how to load their guns, even how to insert the magazine. I observed that the ‘1911’ shooter fired right handed but always used his left hand to put the safety on or off. Later I showed him how to operate the safety using the thumb of his right hand and the alternate method if he was shooting with his left hand. I cautioned one shooter to not put his thumb behind the slide of his semi-auto. I had to remind one or two to put on their eye protection. There was one or two other things I advised. The instructor had never said anything nor did he assist the students with any of these problems. Nor did he assist or correct any other problems.<br />
They were firing at ledger size sheets of paper, that is 11 by 17 inches and doing so from seven yards. The warm-up was to take their time and fire six shots. One guy hit with only five shots, another with only four, the Glock shooter missed with all six. Throughout my observation I kept reminding myself ‘He calls these INTERMEDIATE level students’.<br />
The first four or five drills the shooters were to start from a ‘low ready’ position and fire six shots, returning to the low ready after each shot. Glock shooter never did, every drill he would raise his gun and fire all six. The instructor never said anything. He never knew about it.<br />
I held back from much I could have said or done. I did not want to undermine the instructor or seem like I was ‘taking over’ the class however it was almost difficult not to. I did jump in when the instructor stood in front of his students (who were all on the firing line) and as he spoke of something, two of them drew their guns from the holsters and pointed them down range though somewhat to the side. The instructor had not thought of that as a problem until I interrupted and pointed it out. He didn’t even seem to notice.<br />
While the instructor took a potty break I inquired how much they were paying him. One hundred dollars each for a partial day.<br />
Part of the problem was very clear. He, the instructor, never watched his students. Yup, He would tell them to do something then never watch them as they attempted to do it.<br />
His written material, some memorized, some read aloud from his notes, was ok, not bad, certainly not wrong but was often incomplete in areas. The drills he had them do were so-so at best but did not seem to be leading to any particular goal. His great error was that he never paid attention to what the students were doing. He could not assist his students, correct their problems, improve their technique, or anything because he never saw them in action. Whenever they shot he would stand in the middle of the line and shoot along with them at the same time. They could have been shooting at each other and as long as they missed he might never have never know it.<br />
After about an hour and a half I was notified that I would be needed elsewhere.”<br />
I fear sometimes there are many of those out there. For some of those instructors it was never a passion or they never had a great desire to teach. Some may be just in it for the money. I don’t care which it may be but I find it disheartening as an instructor that so many people out there are being “abused.”<br />
Once in a while I’ve been accused of being an “expert.” I don’t really consider myself an expert. An instructor named Dan Shea pointed out long ago that there really are no experts in any subject, just Reasonably Knowledgeable Individuals, or RKI’s. I like that concept as it keeps all of us honest and locked into the permanent role of student. I also do not think my way is necessarily the best. I’ve learned things through my experience that work for me and have worked for others. Does that mean that’s it? No, there are other techniques and opinions out there. I’d be a fool if I thought I’d learned it all and that there was no more insight in the world. Times change. Technology changes. People’s ideas change. We must be smart enough to see through the hype and learn new things. <br />
Be open to more training. Never stop learning. Never stop trying to find better ways to teach. Read. Observe. Stay informed.<br />
Semper Paratus<br />
Check 6<br />
Burn<br />
This article still holds!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-58613977040482274042022-09-04T17:06:00.002-05:002022-09-09T22:25:37.092-05:00What A Combat Vet Would Share With YouThis article puts across the things that many combat veterans experience.
Military.com | By Regina Bahten
(Obviously "he" could be "she".)
Top 10 Things Your Combat Vet Wants You to Know
1. He is addicted to war, although he loves you. War is horrible, but there is nothing like a life-and-death fight to make you feel truly alive. The adrenaline rush is tremendous, and can never be replaced.
Succeeding in combat defines a warrior, places him in a brotherhood where he is always welcome and understood. The civilian world has its adrenaline junkies as well; just ask any retired firefighter, police officer, or emergency room staff if they miss it.
2. Living for you is harder. It would be easy for him to die for you because he loves you. Living for you, which is what you actually want, is harder for him. It is even harder for him if you are smart and do not need him to rescue you, since rescuing is something he does really well.
If you are very competent at many things, he may at times question if you need him at all. He may not see that you stay with him as a conscious choice.
3. "The training kicks in" means something very different to him. It is direct battle doctrine that when ambushed by a superior force, the correct response is "apply maximum firepower and break contact."
A warrior has to be able to respond to threat with minimal time pondering choices. While this is life-saving in combat, it is not helpful in the much slower-paced civilian world. A better rule in the civilian world would be to give a reaction proportionate to the provocation. Small provocation, small response (but this could get you killed on the battlefield).
When the training becomes second nature, a warrior might take any adrenaline rush as a cue to "apply maximum firepower." This can become particularly unfortunate if someone starts to cry. Tears are unbearable to him; they create explosive emotions in him that can be difficult for him to control. Unfortunately, that can lead to a warrior responding to strong waves of guilt by applying more "maximum firepower" on friends, family, or unfortunate strangers.
4. He is afraid to get attached to anyone because he has learned that the people you love get killed, and he cannot face that pain again. He may make an exception for his children (because they cannot divorce him), but that will be instinctual and he will probably not be able to explain his actions.
5. He knows the military exists for a reason. The sad fact is that a military exists ultimately to kill people and break things. This was true of our beloved "Greatest Generation" warriors of WWII, and it remains true to this day.
Technically, your warrior may well be a killer, as are his friends. He may have a hard time seeing that this does not make him a murderer. Although they may look similar at first glance, he is a sheepdog protecting the herd, not a wolf trying to destroy it. The emotional side of killing in combat is complex. He may not know how to feel about what he's seen or done, and he may not expect his feelings to change over time.
Warriors can experience moments of profound guilt, shame, and self-hatred. He may have experienced a momentary elation at "scoring one for the good guys," then been horrified that he celebrated killing a human being. He may view himself as a monster for having those emotions, or for having gotten used to killing because it happened often. One of my Marines recommended "On Killing" by Dave Grossman, and I would pass that recommendation on.
6. He's had to cultivate explosive anger in order to survive in combat. He may have grown up with explosive anger (violent alcoholic father?) as well.
7. He may have been only nineteen when he first had to make a life and death decision for someone else. What kind of skills does a nineteen-year-old have to deal with that kind of responsibility?
One of my veterans put it this way: "You want to know what frightening is? It's a nineteen-year-old boy who's had a sip of that power over life and death that war gives you. It's a boy who, despite all the things he's been taught, knows that he likes it. It's a nineteen-year-old who's just lost a friend, and is angry and scared, and determined that some *%#& is gonna pay. To this day, the thought of that boy can wake me from a sound sleep and leave me staring at the ceiling."
8. He may believe that he's the only one who feels this way; eventually he may realize that at least other combat vets understand. On some level, he doesn't want you to understand, because that would mean you had shared his most horrible experience, and he wants someone to remain innocent.
9. He doesn't understand that you have a mama bear inside of you, that probably any of us could kill in defense of someone if we needed to. Imagine your reaction if someone pointed a weapon at your child. Would it change your reaction if a child pointed a weapon at your child?
10. When you don't understand, he needs you to give him the benefit of the doubt. He needs you also to realize that his issues really aren't about you, although you may step in them sometimes. Truly, the last thing he wants is for you to become a casualty of his war.
Copyright 2019 Military.com. All rights reserved
If you're curious how those who have been in combat think, this article can help. Maybe not everyone of these points will apply to every person, but many of them will apply, and at least a few will apply to everyone.
Understanding is a very real way you can help a combat vet.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
BurnUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5686059350313965784.post-6635562071618692072022-09-04T16:35:00.003-05:002022-09-29T18:33:56.741-05:00Spy CrapI just heard from a guy I haven’t heard from in many years. We were in the military together though he was in a different branch than I. He served as a Green Beret for 6 years and then separated from the Army. He was immediately recruited by the CIA. He worked for what is now called the Directorate of Operations, but is still called less formerly Clandestine Service. Spies. He operated out of Europe and Asia through out his career. He is now retired but our paths crossed many times in training. We went through SERE (survival, evasion, resistance and escape) school together. He had experienced the Army’s SERE training and was now going through some other branches programs. We also went through Jump school together. The last time I actually saw him was in a Combat driving course being run by the Department of State in the 80’s. We touch base every few years in one form or another. I always tease him and ask what new thing he has learned about me. Once in a while he comes up with some scary answers. But he’s been away from the “field” for several years and retired as an analyst. As we were taking this “catch-up” time I reminded him of some things he told me in the past. We talked about these skills and things he’s learned through out the years and I finally said, “You need to teach me some of that spy crap!” He laughed and we talked about spy crap some more. I’ve come up with a list that is potentially criminal, but when used by law abiding people can be useful in a grid-down scenario.
Tactical Driving
There are several driving schools in the U.S. and throughout Europe. They train military, law enforcement, and executive security or “body guards.” These courses are not real expensive (about $400 to $600). If you have the need and the wherewithal I would suggest researching these schools and signing up. I’ve never used what I learned in the driving course I took in real life experiences, but I have played around in the desert with it. It’s fun and I can see several situations where it would save your life. There is a You tube video going around where someone is behind a car that stops on a bridge and attempts to car jack a vehicle behind it. The quick thinking driver rams into the front car and pushes his or her way through. I like the video, but I may have chose a J-turn to get out of that situation. Maybe.
Booby-traps
Wikipedia says: “A booby trap is a device or setup that is intended to kill, harm, or surprise a human being or an animal.” There are many ideas and books and manuals on this subject on the internet. It would be advantageous to learn some of these traps. Just remember, there are many legal problems that can arise from using these traps. Like anything else on this site, do not do illegal things. Know what is legal and what is not. Some traps are lethal and were developed during war time. Knowingly killing, hurting, maiming, or harming another person is a crime. Know what you are doing and never use these on people, even by accident. Learning how to build and use trap is another skill you may need in the future. In some states or countries these traps may be illegal to build, or process, leave alone use.
Bomb making
Making, processing, and using explosives requires special training. DO NOT TRY! This is another skill that is potentially criminal but could be handy in a certain situation. The little bomb making skill that I have was from blowing up my back yard as a kid. I also learned a little from my good friend callsign “Det Cord”, short for Detonation cord, or a cord used to blow up bombs. Det Cord had been blowing things up his whole life so it was natural that he became a UXO specialist in the military and on the bomb squad of a large metropolitan city police department.
There is a plethora of information about making these devices on the internet. Some information is false and very dangerous. Even the good info is dangerous. It is always best to learn from someone who has been trained and experienced in explosives. There are several schools to become certified in using and disarming explosives. If you are interested in this as a career, then find a school. I’ve been to IED (improvised explosive devise) identification and recognition course a few times but never in the handling of explosives. If you can find someone willing to teach you the basics this would be a very useful skill in a grid down situation. But ensure whatever training you get is from competent, certified, and experienced people. Do NOT try to wing this yourself! Often it is illegal and always is dangerous. Beware of false and bad info on this! There are many books and manuals for this but like I’ve said here several times, some info is bad so be very, very careful, or leave it alone altogether.
CALTROPS
This is an area denial weapon make up of several sharp spikes arranged in a way that one is always pointed upward. This is a good device to keep vehicles away from your position. These also may be illegal in certain states or countries. I know for instance these are illegal to possess in the state of Texas. I have a friend who could have gotten into a lot of trouble for having these but through the kindness of law enforcement, was not arrested on the spot. He was allowed to destroy what he made in front of the officer. I’m not sure about other states but I imagine there are others. If it is legal, there are many ideas to make caltrops with minimal cost.
Lock picking
This is a skill that is not illegal to learn or to have the tools, but like many things could be used with nefarious intent. There are many books, videos, and places to get this equipment. Once you learn a little, you’ll never look at your locked items the same again. I would encourage learning his skill.
General nastiness
There are many books and manuals out there about how to get back at someone or how to make someone pay for what you feel they have done to you. Some of these skills or ideas are handy, some are a useless waste. Take all of this info with a grain of salt.
Disguise
I would include camouflage (my favorite color!) in this area. Look at what is out there for this skill and practice. Blending in or not being seen are skills that may save you one day. SERE taught me some great ways of doing this. Look at manuals and books and practice this skill.
Disappearing
There are manuals and books that teach you how to “get away from it all.” Disappearing, going to ground, fading away, is something that has to be planned and carried out with discipline. Escaped prisoners have been caught because they have returned to family, friends, and areas, where they can be found easily. To disappear is to change your identity and life permanently. This is not easy but many of the things that would make a successful disappearing may be useful for certain situations.
Smuggling
This can be very illegal. Smuggling people in or out of this country, prison, or other situations is criminal. Smuggling illegal things, guns out of this country, drugs into this country, contraband into prison, or helping someone to break out or prison, are all illegal acts. Do not do them! But learning from these illegal acts may be handy one day during without rule of law (WROL). Knowing how to hide things or people and move them may be a necessary activity in WROL. Again, books and manuals on this are all over the internet.
Codes
Communication is easier now than it ever has been. It’s also a lot less private than it has ever been. Learning and using codes in an important skill that can make all the difference even in todays world. The internet can help.
Improvised weapons
Learning to make weapons out of everyday things is a great skill that could save your life one day. Almost anything can be a club or a spear, but it takes some thought to make more sophisticated weapons. Books and manuals can help get the inventive juices flowing.
These were just some of the skills that Det Cord and I came up with that would cross over into civilian life during a grid down situation. There are probably more that you can come up with.
Loompanics Unlimited was a publisher that had been in business from 1972 until 2006. They dealt in topics ranging from survival to conspiracy theories. Most of what they sold was controversial including titles like “Hit Man. A technical manual for independent contractors.” When Loompanics decided to close their doors they sold off most of their inventory to other sellers and publishers. Some of them went to Paladin Press who published and sold books similar to Loompanics. Paladin was in business from 1970 until 2018. They were sued several times for publishing the above book about becoming a hit man. Each time they settled out of court. The two founders split in 1974 because one wanted to continue with publishing and the other wanted to start a magazine which is “Soldier of Fortune” started in 1975. When the two were together the company name was “Panther Publications” but when they split the name was changed to Paladin Press. The owner died suddenly in 2017 and it was decided that Paladin would stop receiving orders on January 31, 2018.
Delta Press is very similar to the above companies but I think they have toned down some of the controversial titles like how to make bombs and murder. They still sell some books that originally were sold by Loompanics and Paladin so there is still a great source for some of subjects we listed above. Lots of these books are PDF downloads on the internet.
One of the things I worry about is me getting in trouble with the law. Not because I break the law, but because I’m a gun guy and 2nd amendment supporter. I don’t want the jack booted thugs to confiscate my computer and find some of these controversial books or manuals on my computer. When I download this stuff it goes to a stick, I don’t put it on my computer. I also have ways of getting on the internet and downloading that leave no trace of what I’ve done. I may be wasting my time but preparedness can sometimes breed a little paranoia. If you’d like to be this careful too ask someone you know who really knows computers and the internet how you can be careful too.
Knowledge trumps gear every time. Some knowledge is on questionable subjects but like a gun, knowledge can be used for good or for ill. Don't break the law and if you're not sure, find out what is legal and illegal. Get more knowledge.
Semper Paratus
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