On a beautiful fall Saturday a determined group of patriotic Americans came out to Gainesville Target Range to learn about their rich heritage and to improve their marksmanship skills. By the end of the weekend, three new Riflemen were revealed and everyone's marksmanship was greatly improved. But more importantly, the heritage and ideals of the Founding Generation were remembered and honored. People learned of individuals such as Isaac Davis, Captain John Parker, General William Heath and of course, Paul Revere. Their actions, decisions, challenges, and successes were brought to life for the students, who also were very involved in an activity that the colonists held dear: marksmanship. From the opening shots on the Redcoat target to the final AQT on Sunday, the lessons were absorbed and the marksmanship did improve significantly. There were lots of rifle challenges but persistence was the watchword and steady progress was observed. It was a fine weekend in America and I was proud to be part of it. Hopefully, someone managed to take a few pictures and will be willing to share them.
This was my first Appleseed shoot, and my first time handling or shooting any kind of gun! What an experience it was. The marksmanship and history lessons I received were invaluable. I learned that I needed patience, focus, resolve, and true determination and grit. The weekend was more mentally and physically grueling than I had anticipated, and without the support and encouragement of the wonderful instructors I don't know that I would have made it. I especially appreciate the help and attention I received from Bruce, Janet, and Smoak, and Bill was so patient and helpful to my 10 year old son. All the instructors were awesome and amazing and I am honored to have learned from such great patriots. What made it so nice too was the support that the participants gave to each other, and I credit sweet Glenda for giving me the encouragement that I needed to make it through the day on Sunday. I came away from the weekend with a renewed love and respect for those that went before us and sacrificed so much so that we might have liberty and freedom. I know exactly what I need to work on before my next Appleseed and eventually my rifleman badge. I regret that I only managed to snap one picture during the weekend, of my son Julian in between timed shoots on Sunday (he was a little exhausted :P). I thank the Appleseed Project from the bottom of my heart for passing on such an important tradition.
Love and liberty to all,
Chris Pampo
This was my first Appleseed also. I was informed of this organization by a friend of mine and I was scheduled for my first shoot not a month later.
A special thank you to our Shoot Boos and Range Officers who where knowledgeable, kind, courteous, polite, and SAFE! Due to the staff this event was so successful. From instruction, oration, and their willingness to even lend personal gear to folks that had forgotten something. Also to volunteer your time, gear, gas, etc.... Thank you!
It was my privilege to learn marksmanship and American history (some I had forgotten and a lot I never knew) from these selfless patriots. Also it was gratifying to see the cross section of patriots that turned up for this event including youth participants. How important I think it is for today to learn all you can about our heritage and firearm safety.
This was as I stated my first Appleseed but definitely not my last. I will be bringing my children and Wife to the event as well as sowing the Appleseed with others I meet.
With the instruction provided I was able to obtain the ranks of Rifleman! (Whew) much much much harder than I would have ever anticipated. Obtaining that patch was an achievement that I will wear always with honor to those patriots that came before me and Hats off to all present and future Rifleman. I know this is only the beginning of my journey as there is always more to learn.