Freedom, Security and the 2nd Amendment

Re “Leave the Hardware at Home,” editorial, Dec. 29: Your editorial disgracefully attempts to compare law-abiding American citizens of Utah to the terrorist criminals responsible for the World Trade Center disaster, the anthrax attacks and the alleged shoe bomber. One of the quiet lessons of Sept. 11 is that American citizens cannot depend on our government agencies to provide 100% of their personal safety needs. Nor should citizens relinquish 100% of that responsibility to government agencies. At least 41,800 citizens of Utah recognize that fact.

These responsible Americans--exercising their 2nd Amendment rights--are certified, law-abiding (via government background checks), well trained (after completing mandatory handgun safety classes) and now state-licensed to carry concealed handguns. They represent a significant crime deterrent, not a threat to security at the Salt Lake City Olympics.

Walter Brauer

Culver City