More NRA hyperbole

As an National Rifle Association member, the caption of Frank Vitale’s commentary caught my interest. “Hostage,” as it turned out, was not the only hyperbolic term used. The commentary went on to characterize the NRA as having “hi-jacked” and charging it with “extortion” and “racketeering.” Then the NRA lobby is accused of being “thugs.” Quite an indictment.

I searched Vitale’s commentary for proof of these harsh charges but found nothing more than disenchantment with Wayne LaPierre’s management, the “direction” of the NRA, and its treatment of author Jim Zumbo. It appears Vitale became upset with the NRA 30 years ago, and he did what many do in anger or frustration — he withdrew his support.

It appears Vitale does not approve of the NRA’s stance regarding the political fallout over the Newtown criminal action by a possibly deranged person using stolen guns that were not adequately protected after shooting the gun owner.  Vitale has every right to disagree with the NRA. However, had he retained his membership all these years and actively worked at bringing about change, we might have an NRA more to his liking. Today he might have been in a position to exercise more influence.  

While the NRA may not represent Vitale, as he has so firmly declared, it does represent me. I may not always agree with its position on guns and the control thereof, but it is the strongest organization protecting the interests of gun owners.  Letters like Vitale’s defame the NRA with the use of the terms noted in my first paragraph. Right now, gun owners, the NRA and any organization or group interested in protecting and reaffirming the Second Amendment are under fire by our government and liberal left-wing elements that envision a gun-free America.  Two steps forward, one step backwards until they’ve achieved their goal. Vitale will probably get to keep and use his guns, but his commentary helps to put gun ownership at risk for future generations.

Robert Grimaldi

Polebridge