THE GUNS OF MODEL LODGE

The guns need some firing.

But first, a quick breakfast at McDonald's, meeting the MPs of Fort Magsaysay, an interesting Humvee ride to the Pistol Range, and finally meeting Bro. Alex Ampati (Major, PA) of Tamaraw Lodge No. 65 --- the Assistant Commandant of the Special Forces School in Fort Magsaysay --- who gave a basic orientation on gun safety.

After passing the Range Officers' inspection on the correct firing posture and doing the requisite dry firing, the sound of mixed guns exploded: a .22, several 9 mms, an assortment of .45s, various versions of the M16, and even a 12-gauge shotgun.

Guns seldom used let loose as they finally got properly introduced to their owners, many of whom have just fired their first shots.

When the gun smoke cleared, a boodle fight over chicken-and-pork adobo, pansit kanin, and a medley of boiled vegetable ensued. 

Then an unexpected visit from Raymart Santiago back at the SOCOM Headquarters.

The Lodge's first ever Gun Safety Clinic was conducted to inform its members on responsible gun ownership and proper gun handling since most of them legally own guns but don't actually have any proper training related to such.

It is also part of the Lodge's attempt to transform its forms of fellowship into wholesome fun that will include the families of its members.

The Lodge is grateful to Bro. Erwin Macalinao (Major, PA) who made the gun safety clinic happen, the men of the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) for their accommodation and assistance, and Model Court No. 55 (Order of the Amaranth) for its support.