Dear Editor: Why Would Any Elected Official Try to Curtail Our Rights to Firearms?

Dear Editor,

Some American military experts are concerned that a war between the U.S. and China could lead to a Chinese attempt to invade our west coast. Since China outnumbers us by about four to one, I suppose they might consider such a thing. After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor brought the U.S. into World War Two some Americans were worried about a Japanese invasion. However, a leading Japanese military officer cautioned the political leaders in Tokyo to not consider it. In essence he told them that successfully invading a nation where the civilians are armed would not be possible.

I can envision what would happen with an attempt to land enemy troops anywhere in this country. There would almost instantly be thousands of Americans with their own guns and ammunition out there picking the invaders off from behind every rock, tree, and fencepost. Many millions of us own, and know how to use our guns. The United States of America, in its armed citizenry, has the greatest national defense force of any nation in the world.

I ask you "Why would any elected official try to curtail or eliminate our right to own and use handheld firearms?"

TERRY MURPHY

Cardwell, Montana