I recently got an e-mail, somewhat berating me, about how my site was geared to the “young guys.”
Basically this guy wanted me to point out that there was much that the older folks could do. He was right, I need to
face the fact that a lot of folks out there are not able to hump a ruck a few miles and then spend a day rolling around in
the dirt shooting. While it is my contention that every “citizen soldier” should strive to be as physically
fit as possible some just aren’t going to be able to be infantrymen. But- if we study the successful guerilla
operations one thing we understand is that everybody had a role to play, everyone contributed. Every time I spend a day training
I have to remind myself that I am well past my prime, and this site is about me helping others get ready for whatever the
future holds.
Another thing that I realized when I was considering my response to this gentleman was that the older
generations tend to be more motivated, they see what is happening to their country and are more upset than your average person
of “infantry age.” I’ve spent a good bit of time watching the news lately, attending tea parties etc.
I notice that the forefront of the current day patriots is made up of folks we might consider well past their “prime.”
Also to consider: older folks tend to be more financially stable, they are more experience and have more time on their hands.
So, with things in mind I have decided to make up this shortfall in my site and mention some things that older folks
can do to help prepare. I have relied heavily on input from the gentleman that sent me the e-mail in the first place
to produce a list with some considerations for older folks.
Intelligence:
In an active conflict intelligence and planning is of utmost importance. Older folks would be very useful in developing
intelligence, collecting data, etc.
Logistics: “Amateurs study tactics,
professionals study logistics.” It is quite possible for an older person to have a large stockpile of those expendable
supplies- notably food. This could provide for their extended family or, in more critical times, the people doing the fighting.
There are other logistical elements as well. An older person is more likely to be a competent mechanic, or gunsmith,
seamstress, fabricator or be able to reload ammunition. Having the supplies on hand and a little extra could make the
difference in the future.
Communications: This is another big thing that
is often overlooked, especially by young people. The HAM network is perhaps the most important part of the national
communication system… and the retired generation is well represented on it.
Medical:
If you are a retired medical professional, it would do well to have the capacity to perform your old job in a pinch.
In bad times this would be very helpful.
Teaching: Obviously if you are
a retired soldier (especially in combat arms, engineering or other critical areas) you should dedicate yourself passing it
on to others. However, all of the skills I have mentioned should be passed on as well. These are all things that
make us more self-sufficient, and self-sufficiency should always be a goal.
Final
Note: The first priority of every “citizen soldier” should be having and maintaining the ability
to defend yourself. We don’t know what the future holds, and we don’t know who will have to fight, or against
whom. I would hate to be the thug that breaks into my 70 year old mothers home. Knowing that gives me a warm feeling
inside.
Thanks to "Old Stumpy" for showing
me the need for this page and helping with it
