You don't know me, or maybe you just don't know that you do. I am your neighbor, doctor, clergyman, nurse or just another nameless, faceless stranger in the crowd. I have a state authorized, court issued permit to carry a concealed handgun. I do so whenever possible.
Though you don't know me, there are a few things you should know about me.
In my case, I was fingerprinted by the local police for an FBI criminal background check. Before that, I had to pass state and local background checks. I had to present evidence to the court of approved training in firearms laws, safety and marksmanship before my application would even be accepted.
I am not a felon, junkie, drug dealer, stalker or even a shoplifter since any number of indiscretions including alcohol or other drug abuse or even simple assault or a restraining order would disqualify me from holding a permit.
My classroom training covered when it is appropriate and legal to even indicate that I have a gun, much less display it or actually use deadly force.
Doing so in any circumstance, under which I am not in immediate fear for my life or the life of another, would mean more than the loss of my permit. Most likely, I would also be charged with brandishing a weapon, disorderly conduct and/or assault.
If it was determined that my use of deadly force was not to protect a life in immediate danger, I would probably be charged with second-degree murder or first-degree manslaughter. On top of these, I could also face civil liability.
Like most people who legally carry concealed handguns, I practice regularly at a range. I am well aware of the laws
and regulations affecting me. My fellow permit holders and I are generally more well trained and practiced than many
law enforcement officers.
I am not a non-resident alien. I am a good citizen, and I vote.
I am aware of the responsibility I bear, and I will walk or run away rather than risk confrontation. I will retreat
as fast and as far as possible. I always avoid conflict. I know that should a situation escalate, I could be identified
as the instigator and face losing my right to carry, or worse.
Should the need arise, however, I will act swiftly, intelligently and decisively to protect my life and the lives of those around me
Are you still afraid of me?
In Virginia, if a person is legally allowed to own a firearm, they are allowed their right to carry one openly, with no permit or registration. almost everywhere in the state, Virginia has also issued over 200,000 permits for concealed carry of a legal firearm. None of the media frenzied predictions of "shootouts over fender benders," "blood in the streets" and bar-room "showdowns" have proven true.
Virginia permit holders are even allowed to carry in the State capitol and assembly buildings, showing how much most Virginia legislators trust their constituents and respect our Constitution.
You should also feel a degree of comfort knowing that there may be someone nearby with means, motive and training to possibly save your life, or that of those around you.
Criminals, on the other hand, should feel fear. They never know if their next intended victim may armed, trained, and ready to effectively defend themselves.
If you feel safer patronizing establishments with a NO GUNS ALLOWED policy, please keep in mind that the criminals don't obey the signs or the laws. That is why we call them criminals.
Criminals know that the law-abiding customers of that establishment are easy prey, and will have little to no fear of the consequences of their actions. The hallways and parking lots of these establishments might just as well post this sign ...
There is no need to fear me, I am just another loyal, law abiding American.
You should, however, be very afraid of those who endeavor to turn
the entire law abiding population of our great country into defenseless
victims.
< -- His Mark
Note: Some wording is specific to Virginia
