Surging Forward, Staying On Target

    As we move forward, growing, changing, expanding, and branching out in new, exciting directions, we need to keep our eye firmly on the goal of training ourselves and our fellow citizens to be prepared for any number of situations that may arise.

    Sometimes, people in "the militia movement" (whatever that is), disagree on what constitutes the most immediate threat. Some will argue that we should assist in the fight against terrorism, while others argue that the threat of a tyrannical, dictatorial government poses a greater hazard. Still others would suggest that the threat of a foreign invasion is the greatest danger, and others will suggest that lawlessness, anarchy, and disorder are the problems for which we should prepare. Some would think that disasters are the bigger issue.

    We shouldn't waste time arguing over WHICH threat is greater. To one extent or the other, depending on your opinion, these are all threats to our society and our way of life. The degree or the order in which you place the above threats shouldn't matter, if we can find common ways to prepare for any of them. If we look for some basic skills that can help us be ready for as much as possible, and focus on these core skills, then overall, as a society, we should be better prepared to face any of the above situations.

   We have argued that everyone who is able should be armed and trained in marksmanship and small unit operations. For the most part, the first order of business in any threatening or disastrous situation is the establishment of security and the maintenance of order. Being armed will contribute to this in pretty much any situation. Your local militia people (or us) will be glad to offer advice on picking your first weapon. There is an excellent article here about choosing your first handgun. 

  Acquiring some first aid skills and some communications ability should come next, and can help in any situation. These can come in handy in your day-to-day life, as well. Who doesn't need some first aid around the house now and then? Who wouldn't benefit from a set of FRS radios or amateur radio skills? That's right, if we learn skills and pick up some equipment that we can use most of the time, it doesn't seem so far fetched or whacked out. You can check with your local Red Cross chapter to learn first aid skills, or check with your local community college. You can contact ARRL for information about getting your amateur radio license. In any event, get a decent first aid kit, and maybe a book on emergency first aid, and get a CB and/or a good pair of FRS radios. 

After this, your preparation levels and choices will tend toward countering what you think is a larger threat. A good idea is to watch the news for a few days, and see what you think is the most pressing need. Some food and water storage issues should be addressed as soon as possible, and back-up lighting and power supplies need to be considered. Do you think that the greater threat is more of a tactical one? Sharpen up you tactical abilities with some local militia unit, or other training. Lots of good training is available around the country. Many local gun ranges have training of this sort, so start searching around and get off of your tumpus rumpus and get ready!

In any event, the more prepared you are for ANY threat, the less of a burden you will be if something untoward happens. If you decide NOW that you would rather be a part of the solution instead of the problem, that you would rather be a helper instead of someone dependent upon the help of others, then you have the right attitude toward preparedness. If being a prisoner, a victim, or a refugee aren't on your agenda for today, or any other day, then get cracking now!

Stay ready.

-Weapon M