Greetings!
I am reminded time and time again of the contributions the people of our state have made in our nation. Oklahoma is where many have had their start in life, and even called home. In our world of firearms that has included National and International shooting champions, those that have made significant impact in gun training and education, industry members, and a good number of NRA Board Members.
In adjacent interest, we have many Oklahoma notables in the law enforcement community. As you’ll read in this issue of the Sharpshooter, Jelly Bryce may have been the quickest draw in all of recorded human history, a native of Mountain View, Oklahoma. His career began as an Oklahoma City police officer and he was later recruited to the FBI as a special agent. Because of his quick draw, he would conduct the most difficult arrest, situations where any of us would’ve been shot dead by the perpetrator. However, because of his incredible speed, he would draw and shoot long before the bad guy could actually fire his already drawn weapon.
It may not be disproportionate the caliber of talent that began in our state, but sometimes I wonder if here in Oklahoma, we live in a place where raw talent can develop, thrive, and make impact. Look at our attitude towards the Second Amendment. If there were more restrictions, more laws, more hoops to jump through to carry, practice with, and possess firearms, how many lives would’ve been lost too early?
This is because great freedoms allow the right people to grow, develop, and make an impact. Because of this environment, Oklahoma has had two officers recognized as NRA officers of the year for valor. This month, the ORA recognized five officers that have led careers that have made a significant impact in our state- whether that is in acts of valor, or by extraordinary service to their community. This doesn’t happen in an environment of oppressive rules, restriction, and heavy regulation.
To bring my point home, read the story of Jelly Bryce and think if he would’ve had the same opportunity to practice and become the legend that he was in today’s age. We have a culture war taking place that impedes greatly on our young people. The fear and stigma of firearms may be suppressing the next Jelly Bryce.
All this means is that we have work to do. We enjoy great freedom in Oklahoma, more than many states do, but it can all go away in the blink of an eye. That is why the ORA is working for you.
