Several decades ago, I put together my “militia kit”. Inspired by the Minutemen and their sense of duty, I vowed to always be prepared to come to the aid of my nation and my people. That was then – this is now. I’m 68 years old with bad knees and six little ones who call me “Grandpa”. Seasons change, and so must I.
The plate carrier with those heavy rifle plates, loaded down with M-14 magazines has been put away to perhaps supply a younger man at some future time.
It has been replaced by a Level III-A vest stocked with trauma gear and an “EMS” ID panel, along with an additional belt kit. It’s been a long time since I was a Fireman and EMT (I took one of the first EMT classes offered in Florida), but the basic knowledge and experience never goes away. Are there younger, more experienced men who would be better at this? Yes, of course, but I’m here and they’re not.
Dealing with bad guys has been replaced by caring for the good guys. Will it ever be used? Probably not – just as the plate carrier was never used, but that’s not the point. Each of us has to be ready to do what we know needs to be done, regardless of the probability that we will be called upon to do it.
That’s just how it works for me. Your situation will be different, but everyone can do something.