By Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Sheriff’s deputies in rural counties across Alabama and the country are often faced with late night patrols in remote areas, alone, with the closest backup being miles away.
While a backup weapon certainly isn’t as ideal as having a backup officer, a good secondary weapon can be a game changer when a deputy faces a dangerous situation.
Also, with mass casualty shootings occurring more frequently, a deputy might need a readily-available and easy to carry handgun while off duty to be able to serve and protect wherever they are.
Last year, DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris decided to purchase Glock 43s to serve as backup weapons for his deputies.
The Glock 43, which was released in the last couple years, comes in 9mm and boasts a single stack design. ‘Single stack’ meaning all of the ammunition housed in the magazine is stacked vertically, instead of staggered, making for slimmer dimensions and easier concealment.
Recently, representatives from the National Rifle Association visited DeKalb County with a grant to help offset the cost of the weapons. The Friends of NRA foundation presented the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office with a check for $3205.00.
“We wanted them to be small enough to carry, but wanted enough knock down power if they needed them,” Sheriff Harris said.
“We wanted them to be able to carry them in their pockets,” Harris said. “We are encouraging them to carry them with them at all times because of what all is going on.
“Just about everyone carries them at all times now. Whether they are in church, a ballgame, in uniform, or not,” added Harris.
Harris made an appearance on NRA Radio to help raise money for the new Glocks. After the show, representatives from the foundation had him fill out paperwork for a grant.
“We are very excited that the NRA Foundation awarded us with this grant money to help pay for the backup weapons for the deputies and pleased that the NRA is making an investment in our community,” said Harris.
“It was a great surprise and pleasure to have the friends of the NRA Mike Parsons, Jean Newman, Jim Johnson for coming to the office present us with this check,” added Harris.
Friends of NRA is a grassroots fundraising program that fosters community involvement to organize and, with help from NRA field staff, plan community events for firearms enthusiasts.
All net proceeds from Friends of NRA events are allocated to The NRA Foundation, the leading charitable organization in support of the shooting sports.
Through NRA Foundation grants for equipment, training materials, range improvements, and more, qualified local, state, and national programs receive aid to involve and inspire a new generation of competitive shooters.
Learn more about Friends of NRA at http://www.friendsofnra.org.
