Considering what is going on in our country, it is hard to decide what to write in a letter to the editor. Gun violence may be the issue of the day.
In the U.S. Navy many years ago, I was skilled enough to qualify “Expert” with an M-1 rifle and a .45 pistol.
I learned marksmanship and weapons safety in the Explorer Scouts “Marksmanship Merit Badge” program taught by two U.S. Marine sergeants. I was also a member of the NRA for at least 15 years.
My recommendation for gun safety screening is to add to the “instant background check” a “personal interview” with law enforcement. It could be done by two active duty officers or reserve officers volunteering for the job.
This is how you are screened for a weapon in Canada, Australia and many other countries. The person who is stable and mature in age or wisdom would not have a problem, but a higher-risk person will be easier to spot. The “personal interview” officers would have the background check information, but the personal contact will be equally or more important.
Even though most murders involve a pistol, the availability of “assault weapons” make them the weapon of choice for school shootings and mass murder.
This interview method could be started with “assault rifles,” but if it works, be done for hand guns as well.
I hope high school and college kids can get done what we “adults” have failed to do.
Raymond P. Finney
Pagosa Springs
