Attack on NRA Was Offensive

* Several of my family members are in law enforcement, and there is no one who has more respect for the job they do or sacrifices they make than I. I am also a member of the National Rifle Assn.

Paul Swanson’s characterization of NRA members being “nuts” who need to “get a life” and take up some other hobby to “cover up your inadequacies” was offensive and undeserved (Letters, June 20).

We live in an increasingly violent society where the police can no longer protect us. As a single mother and the sole protector of my children, I would be no match for any male intruder. Therefore, having a gun was imperative.

I joined the NRA and went on to become certified as a pistol instructor so that I would know how to responsibly and safely use a gun.

Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy Brad Riches’ murder was a tremendous tragedy, and more personally felt by Swanson because he knew the officer.

However, to blame good citizens is just part of the current media-driven hysteria and political agenda of those who want a simple, easy answer to the ills of our society.

We are all living in the nightmare created by a society that has rejected God and gone its own way. There is no legislation that will fix this one. It’s a heart problem.

I am proud to be a member of the NRA and thankful for their efforts to fight for my constitutional rights as a citizen. I’m sick of people like Bill Clinton and Barbara Boxer misrepresenting the facts and lying to the American people. The NRA is an outstanding organization of law-abiding, freedom-loving, patriotic Americans. Swanson’s remarks were undeserved and untrue.

SUSIE JONES

Newport Beach