Editor:

In defense of the NRA and the Second Amendment (and in response to “NRA to blame for gun deaths,” Aug. 26), allow me to suggest that, all too often, folks brandish their opinions regarding both, and in their writing, attempt to make it sound like fact. First and foremost, the Second Amendment is not selective. It does not deny any legitimate law-abiding U.S. citizen the right to own or bear a firearm, nor does it prohibit those who wish not to do so their right as well. It was written, at least according to historians skilled and educated in constitutional law and background, to protect Americans from an overbearing governing group of people — elected or otherwise — who handle the business of our federal government.

It makes sense, since the authors all came from a society subject to a ruling class who believed and acted as an isolated group setting themselves apart from those they governed — an elite group who, frankly, spent most of their time serving themselves rather than the people in their care.

Our ancestors fought to get rid of royalty in our country. The Second Amendment was written to ensure those who would re-establish it might think twice before treading on the God-given rights of free Americans who simply will not subject themselves to such treachery.

Last, regarding the NRA, as a life member myself, I will say unequivocally to anyone willing to do the research: The organization has nothing to do with illegal gun ownership, or the illegal use of those firearms. 

Peter Kapuscinski

Dillwyn