Lt. Spooner explains the various types of bullets as Sgt. Wimberly looks on
The first Ladies Only Gun Class was held Saturday, January 20th. The Decatur County Sheriff's Office had received several requests from the community for instruction on gun safety and the Sheriff's Office set it up. Once the announcement was made public it was clear that the women were interested.
The class was set up for 12 participants but with over 56 women responding look for another class time in the near future. Instructors for the class were the training officers from the Decatur County Sheriff's Office, Lt. James ' Bubba' Spooner and from Bainbridge Public Safety, Sgt. Ryan Wimberly.
The class was held in two segments; the classroom and the range. Everyone met at the Sheriff's Department at 8:30 am for the classroom portion. This included the basic rules of gun safety, various ammunitions, gun types, permit procedures, basic terms, Georgia laws related to firearms, use of force in defense of habitat, concealed weapons and the basic fundamentals of shooting.
A 1 minute video
Safety Rules from Sgt. Wimberly
Following a lunch break it was out to the range for the second part, some hands on training. Going over the basics again along with helpful hints along the way, the ladies listened and asked questions. Several of the women brought their own firearms and there were also several types available to try.
Lt. Spooner answers lots of questions
Two by two the women began target practice. Each with their protective gear and an instructor at their side, they aimed at their targets, many surprising themselves at their accuracy.
Barbara Johnson with Lt. Spooner and Lenell Lambert with Sgt. Wimberly with help from Deputy Jason Williams
Much was learned and confidence gained. The patience and positive reenforcement of both Lt. Spooner and Sgt. Wimberly was the key.
Most of the women proudly took home their target. Women from all walks of life comprised the class; seniors, teachers, moms and law enforcment wives. Each had their own reason for wanting the class, for most, it was self empowerment.
Thanks to support of local businesses, Southern Trading and Pawn, Wal-Mart, Sportsmans Corner, Sammy's Bait and Tackle and the Victim Service Office of the District Attorney, the women left with self-confidence, prizes and a smile.
Look for another class soon, this one was a real winner.
