Letters to the editor for Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Gun ownership has gotten out of hand

Guns, guns, guns, guns: The more guns the better. Who’s idiotic idea is it the we should all have a weapon? I would never begrudge a reasonable person the right to own a gun, but who needs a military type weapon capable of unloading 50 or more rounds without reloading? A sporting rifle or small handgun seems more than enough fire power for any human.

The Second Amendment was affixed to the Constitution on Dec. 15, 1791. At that time manpower was needed for a militia. Procuring food and the protection of person and property was necessary as our country expanded westward. I get the feeling that those who must have more and, of course, more powerful, weapons think they are necessary for those same reasons. There truly would not be the need for such artillery if we were more tolerant, accommodating and understanding of others. We might begin to be more peaceful and non violent. Stop the preaching of revenge, retaliation and isolation.

We are a country of immigrants. Except for the Native American, each of us is a descendant of immigrants. Peoples from every land on this earth have come and were welcomed. Each has contributed to the greatness of this land. Let us stop peddling hatred, violence and anger and start the responsibility each of us has in standing up and causing an uproar against those who through their actions and speech stir up the defiant attitude.

Franklin Holzhauer

Dayton