“The great body of our citizens shoot less as times goes on. We should encourage rifle practice among schoolboys, and indeed among all classes, as well as in the military services by every means in our power. Thus, and not otherwise, may we be able to assist in preserving peace in the world… The first step – in the direction of preparation to avert war if possible, and to be fit for war if it should come – is to teach men to shoot!”
-Theodore Roosevelt
‘Murica.
Agreed !!! Teddy nailed it !!
Nice Sesame Street reference!
Anyone remember when shooting was an actual elective class one could take in high school? Or did I imagine that from my days in school?
Does any high school still have a “trap and skeet” club that competes with other schools? I feel that would be a great way to introduce kids into a wonderful sport.
Many high schools have marksmanship programs. All I’ve ever seen use air guns. It’s not until college level that these type of programs start to use rifles.
In the words of one of the most bad ass US presidents…
BULLY!!
I learned to shoot in college, with NRA Basic Pistol Marksmanship training funded by student activity fees.
Please enjoy the sweet delicious irony:
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-07-09/making-guns-cool-high-schools-embrace-shooting-as-hot-new-sport
Great story!
I’m pro 2A, but sometimes I feel like there’s too many idiots with too much firepower. Programs like these teach the discipline and skill set to be safe with firearms, which is a big plus.
Part of a previous assignment involved inspecting JROTC programs in California high schools. Every one of those fine, pre-WWII constructed high school buildings had a small-bore rifle range. (and they also used to be among the most academically excellent schools in America). My, how that state has fallen…