In the early 1980s, I purchased a 12-gauge shotgun at Sears in the Westmoreland Mall, and I walked through the mall to carry it out to my car. Unthinkable today, as society’s views on weapons have changed in the last decades.
In reflecting on those changing societal views, I think commonsense regulation of weapons has to be considered. The Second Amendment states: “a well-regulated militia,” which would imply some sort of military training and discipline being required to own weapons.
My suggestion is that if a citizen wishes to own a military-style semiautomatic weapon not legal for hunting, then that citizen should show proof of military service and an honorable discharge.
I remember my basic training sergeants being adamant concerning training on M-16s, impressing respect for the capability of the weapon and responsibility for the operator of that style of gun.
This suggestion would, in my opinion, reinforce the “militia” provision of the Second Amendment and provide official, standardized training to any 18-year-old who wishes to own a military-style weapon.
Having the requirement of an honorable discharge may even foster a sense of camaraderie and respect among those able to purchase military-style semiautomatic guns.
At the very least, we would know that those gun owners had formal and serious training on the use and abuse of these weapons, instead of any fool with cash in hand, and an emotional problem in his mind, buying an AR-15 over the counter.
Thomas Nacey Jr.
Salem