Traveling at six miles above the high desert there is little room for error, especially within the ultra-cozy confines of an Alaska Airlines 737-8. While sipping a Budweiser/tequila mix and enjoying a productive conversation, one does not expect to learn a valuable lesson about the reality of the US military budget.
Former police sniper Ron Sasaki is a volunteer for American Snipers.org, an organization which ensures that the men and women of the armed forces specializing as snipers have all the advantages when deployed to sensitive and dangerous combat zones around the world. “Most people do not know that a lot of these younger people are paying out of pocket to properly equip themselves,” exclaimed Sasaki. “There is the common misconception that the military takes care of all the costs. For a younger sniper to be responsible to pay for their own rifle does not make a lot of sense.”
Since 2003 American Snipers.org has gradually built a large network of support for those involved as active duty snipers. The laundry list of materials secured for those in need is not simply confined to weaponry and accessories, but literally laundry. “In some cases we provide bare necessities such as combat grade socks and gloves,” said Sasaki.
Originally founded by police officers who were well aware of the bureaucratic constraints of public budget allocations, the organization began with law enforcement snipers literally sending their own used gear directly to the frontline. Sasaki, who fills the role of both a fundraiser and logistics manager, works entirely on a pro bono basis. “The difference between our 501c-3 and other entities is that the majority of our staff donates their time. This allows us to get the most out our donations,” he stated.
Maybe, the tequila was beginning to kick-in or maybe Sasaki and brethren have a pretty damn good idea, a productive solution to help solve a problem within the framework of our military. The answer to the last thought is “definitely”.
Please visit the Americansnipers.org website and donate today.
