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I recently took my 10-year-old son to the Heidelberg, Germany, Rod and Gun Club to target-practice with a .22-caliber rifle and continue his education on gun safety and practices. We have done this on numerous occasions but recently took a six-month break.

Upon our arrival, I was informed by the staff that because of last year’s shooting in Winnenden, Germany, when 17-year-old Tim Kretschmer killed 15 people, my son had to be 14 years of age [to fire a .22-caliber] on the range. The staff then pointed to the regulations in a picture frame on the wall.

This is the most asinine thing I have ever heard. Kretschmer [reportedly was treated for depression] and used one of his father’s weapons for the killing spree.

Because of this incident, my responsibility as a parent to teach my child proper gun safety is severely hampered.

Is the Rod and Gun Club not a Morale, Welfare and Recreation facility? I would ask our military leaders to take steps to overturn these regulations. Hands-on training and openly and honestly talking to your child about gun safety are more effective than just ordering him or her to "Never touch that." Such statements just stimulate a child’s natural curiosity to investigate further.

James C. SpencerHeidelberg

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