People have right to own guns responsibly

Frank Musaraca, Henderson

Monday, June 30, 2008 | 2:04 a.m.

The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the U.S. Constitution’s Second Amendment was a welcome ruling for Americans’ constitutional rights in light of the current administration’s list of constitutional trashings.

The high court’s decision only reinforces two often-heard truths: “Guns don’t kill people, irresponsible people do,” and “If guns were illegal, only criminals would have guns.”

The key word here is “irresponsible.” In defense of the logic of these truths, and the court’s decision, if someone wants to kill you badly enough, he’ll use a baseball bat or run over you with his car! Should we then make cars and baseball bats illegal?

As a retired law enforcement officer, I would like to add that this right to legally own a gun and keep it in your home for self-protection carries with it the responsibility of becoming proficient by using it safely at a range or other authorized and safe location.

Responsible adult gun owners must also take the precautions necessary to ensure that no unauthorized access by children or others is allowed.

Kudos to the Supreme Court for its decision to protect our citizens’ rights as Americans.