It was a bright and sunny April morning in the desert when 15 souls converged upon the El Paso Community College Law Enforcement Academy range to learn a bit more about Liberty.
There were a few repeat offenders, but most of the students were first-timers, and they were made welcome (before we subsequently wore them out ;) )
(https://i.imgur.com/tyh06Xvl.jpg)
We started the weekend with CaptWa telling of the First Strike of the Match, to get these folks fired up about what it took to secure our freedoms, then we rolled into Safety and the first Hits Count target of the weekend.
Much to our delight, Jefte stepped up and CLEARED that target on his first attempt!
(https://i.imgur.com/El27NSVl.jpg)
After that high note we rolled into serious instruction, teaching the Sling, NPOA, Six Steps, and Prone first, then later adding on IMC, magazine changes, transitions, seated standing.......
What did all that accomplish?
THREE new Riflemen on the first AQT of the weekend, that's what!
Sigfrido, Jose, and Jefte all showed they knew what they were about
(https://i.imgur.com/WfwB1ypl.jpg)
Not long after, Marcos joined the ranks. He actually did his backwards, having already scored Rifleman at Known Distance on a seriously yucky and cold weekend in February.
(https://i.imgur.com/WflnSIzl.jpg)
A couple of the instructors had a chance to join in on the fun, with two of them requalifying.
The memorial Volley was somber, and well-received. It's eye-opening when we start thinking of the colonists who risked their all as PEOPLE, instead of just a vague notion of history. Each student, and each member of the cadre, was presented with this year's patch in the "Dangerous Men" series. Prudence Wright embodies the spirit of Liberty we need to nurture in this world, and it was an honor to tell her story and honor her with a patch and shirt this year.
Our students left us on Sunday tired and sore, but happy to have taken part in America's real national pastime to celebrate Patriots Day: Riflery
On behalf of the El Paso and Southern NM instructors, it was our honor to spend our time with you.
Until we meet again, my friends,
Remember, your Heritage is Rebellion.
More photos may be seen at El Paso Patriots' Day 2024 (https://imgur.com/a/qkKagZU)
Look at all the rifleman!!
Huzzah