The Life Chronicler
Project

My original plan was to visit Dallas after Tucson as it was the most direct route home via Texas. But I have for many years wanted to visit San Antonio. So, I did just that. It was a good decision. Not only did I see the Alamo and the famous River Walk (which I did not actually walk but traversed the canal on boat), but I also got the full Texas experience. After attending a mega-church on a Sunday morning, I visited a military base (Joint Base San Antonio) to shoot a gun (four, actually) for the first time in my life.

My Airbnb host is a retired Air Force man. He is also an avid hunter. When he asked if I would like to attend his church and then go to a shooting range, how could I say no. I would have a most qualified gun owner who could impart a wealth of knowledge. He did just that.

For me, it was an incredible learning experience. I have always believed that the vast majority of gun owners are highly responsible. That belief was confirmed by the manner in which my mentor imparted his knowledge and by the way he comported himself the entire time. Although I won’t be buying a gun anytime soon, I was left with a deep respect for those who responsibly conduct themselves.

The guns I shot were:

1. Springfield XDM (19+1)
2. Springfield Hellcat (13+1)
3. FN SLP (Self-Loading Police) 9 Round Shotgun
4. Ruger AR-15 Pistol

My Texas experience. It was one I will not soon forget.