In a recent letter to the editor, it was claimed that a law stating that no one under 21 should have an AR-15 was “problematic” and “ridiculous.” Frankly, it is in my opinion quite appropriate.
It is quite different for law enforcement and military personnel to have access to these weapons regardless of age, but let us keep in mind that these are in “controlled environments” — a lot different than my driving around with one in the trunk of my car.
While it is no doubt necessary for these individuals to have access to these weapons, I do not believe that the law or military personnel actually own these weapons personally. Nor are they allowed to just bring them home. I know that when I was in the Army, I was assigned a weapon (I didn’t own it). I could not leave base with it unless ordered to do so for a specific purpose.
Anything that we can do to reduce the danger to the public should be considered. Unfortunately, just like the term “global warming” is inappropriate, so is the term “gun control.” More accurately it should be known as “public safety.” Let us keep in mind that in addition to the right to own a gun, we also have a right to life.
Henry Eggert
Hawley