Women's Introduction to Firearms seeks to teach

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrew Moua
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  From ancient times to the present, men have held the responsibilities of protecting one's home and family. But in this day and age where danger can strike at any time and any place, women have broken the traditional role of the damsel in distress and learned to defend themselves.

This rang true April 26 when 10 women attended a firearms course taught by Terry Miguez, 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Pete Desjardin, Air Force Global Strike Command, and Air Force Reserve Master Sgt. John Reser, 2nd Bomb Wing Safety Office.

The Women's Introduction to Firearms course held at the 2nd Security Forces Squadron Combat Arms Training and Maintenance range sought to teach and educate women on the use and operation of a firearm in the case they may need to defend themselves from an assailant.

"I, and two others, teach this course to familiarize women in the proper handling of a firearm for when the situation arises that they may need to use one," said Miguez. "We've taught this class three times so far and also offer other classes such as concealed carry, advanced pistol, defensive rifle, shotgun and private lessons."

The class started with a brief introduction to gun safety and various types of firearms, ranging from handguns, shotguns and semi-automatic rifles. Instructors showcased the proper way to store, operate, load and fire each type. They also answered any questions the women had regarding a particular firearm.

"I took the class to become more familiar and competent with a firearm in the case I ever needed to use one," said Kelly Walter, spouse of Senior Master Sgt. Matt Walter, Air Force Global Strike Command. "Being able to practice loading with dummy rounds helped me learn how to operate my own firearm."

After the classroom portion, the attendees were brought to the firing range to test their knowledge. The students were able to use their own firearms or ones provided by the instructors.

"The largest impact of the class is here at the range," said Desjardin. "Most women may be intimidated by a firearm, but giving them broad knowledge of them may ease some fears they may have. Some come back and tell us the experience was empowering, being able to see and feel the weapon firing really solidifies the lessons we've taught them."

In a time where danger is ever present, from the battlefield to your own backyard, being able to protect loved ones is a skill anyone should like to have.

"This teaches the women who attend this class to be more independent," Desjardin said. "Your husband, father or son may not always be there to protect you and in a situation where you're threatened, having the knowledge of using a firearm can be the difference of life or death."

For more information on the Women's Introduction to Firearms class or other classes, contact Terry Miguez at 318-518-6657.