14 June 09
ALERT ACADEMY, Texas – When it comes to a cadet vote, out of all the training events offered at encampment, the firearms safety training is usually at the top of the list. Capt Robert "Skip" Smith, Commander of the Texas Cadet Training Wing (as well as commands of the Tyler Composite Squadron) kicked off the Firearms Safety and Training briefing by saying, “Never point the rifle at anything you don’t wish to destroy.” Once he had everyone's attention, he went over safety rules and demonstrations, while reminding cadets that; “Everybody is a safety officer.” He also stressed to the cadets, “If you see a safety regulation being broken, you have the responsibility to point it out to anyone and everyone.”

“Our entire program is not so much about firing accurately as it is about the proper handling of firearms,” explained Capt Smith, who is also a certified firearms safety instructor. "Cadets and their families have varying interest regarding firearms. They may participate in recreational shooting, competition, hunting, or even gun collecting. Whatever the case, our cadets will know how to safely handle firearms and enjoy using them properly.”

During the briefing, C/MSgt Wyatt Burton went up from the audience and assisted the instructor by demonstrating rifle aiming tips. The safety aspect to this instruction was to ensure that cadets understood the principle of “line of sight," which requires looking beyond the target to make sure that nothing is in harm’s way. Toward the end of the briefing, Capt Smith told the cadets, “When you are handling firearms, let’s be the safest we can be.”   



As the buses rolled out, basic and intermediate cadets were reminded to properly hydrate and keep cool while out on the firing range. The firearms training at the range is the most exciting part of the safety program. Cadets get the chance to experience and fire .22 caliber rifles, as they work towards earning a marksmanship badge that they can wear on their uniform. As they wait for their turn, cadets enjoy talking about competition shooting and their encampment experiences.

With attentive eyes, the TAC Officers and Firearms Training Officers supervised the cadets on the firing range. Just before a cadet was ready to load, each was reminded of safety regulations. As planned, cadets learned to respect their rifle as a means to avoid injury to themselves and others. “Even though safety is paramount, we make sure the cadets enjoy their time with this course,” said Capt Smith. “I also rest easier knowing that they’ll go home as safety-minded individuals.”

Story submitted by C/TSgt Kenneth Herrmann, Addison Eagles Composite Squadron and C/TSgt Matthew Bruce, Phoenix Composite Squadron and Photos by C/TSgt Matthew Bruce and C/TSgt Kenneth Hermann