Texas Church Shooting, Legally Armed Citizens, and Media Bias

Last week we saw another church shooting, this one at the West Freeway Church of Christ in the city of White Settlement, Texas. This incident was ended just six seconds after it began by an armed citizen volunteer of the church security team. Media coverage was predictable.

Church shootings are an unfortunate reality in our society. There have been at least 13 such events in the United States since 2015. While these events are always tragic, they are likely unavoidable in a country of 329 million people. These events are sensationalized by the media and made to appear much more prevalent than is actually the case. Mass murders involving firearms are always reported such that the solution is more gun control. The individual’s right of self-defense is always minimized.

There are a number of things to be learned from this most recent church shooting. There were two fatalities, not including the murderer, and because the church service was being “live streamed” the entire incident was captured on video. The fact that the incident was quickly ended by an armed citizen does not fit the typical media narrative and the existence of the video is probably the only reason the story was covered at all.

Jack Wilson is the armed citizen seen ending the incident in the video. Wilson was first described by the media as a former FBI agent which turned out to be incorrect. Then he was described as a former law enforcement officer (LEO). Wilson was a reserve deputy from 1980 to 1986. He was finally described as a firearms instructor and head of the church security team, probably true statements.

The fact is that Jack Wilson was a legally armed citizen who took his responsibility seriously enough to develop the skills and mindset to do what had to be done. Gun control advocates supported by the media insist that only trained professionals can use firearms safely and effectively. They tell us that this ability is beyond the reach of the ordinary citizen.

One writer for USA Today actually wrote that it was “terrifying” that there were armed citizens in church. She was apparently OK with Wilson but was terrified by the other members of his team seen rushing to provide backup. This kind of ignorance is exactly what all gun owners should be fighting to correct. Legally armed citizens are the most rational solution to the problem of these monsters killing innocent people. Remember that this incident ended in six seconds yet there were two fatalities! How many more would have died waiting for a police response?

You are ultimately responsible for your safety and for that of your loved ones. As Americans we have the ability to obtain the tools and skills required for self-defense. If you are willing to accept that responsibility you should obtain your concealed carry permit (CCW) and carry whenever and wherever legally permitted. Seek training from professional instructors and practice regularly. Participate in competitive shooting events to develop your skills and enjoy your firearms.

Jack Wilson is certainly an American hero. Jack Wilson is a legally armed citizen. Jack Wilson and millions of others like him make our communities safer. Join the team.

The right to self-defense is a basic human right. Gun ownership is an integral part of that right. If you want to keep your rights defend them by joining San Diego County Gun Owners (SDCGO) in San Diego, Orange County Gun Owners (OCGO) in Orange County, San Bernardino County Gun Owners (SBCGO) in San Bernardino County or Riverside County Gun Owners (RCGO) in Riverside. Support the cause by listening to Gun Sports Radio live on Sunday afternoon or on the internet at your leisure. Join the fight and help us restore and preserve our second amendment rights. Together we will win.

©2020 Joseph T Drammissi