Scaling Up or Down
I’ve realized over the years that one of my weaknesses is how often I stay quiet on some topics. The main reason for this is: I see things that, to me, seem evident, so I don’t say anything, only to find out later that what I thought was obvious was never even considered by the person or group I was speaking with. So, the following, to me, seems obvious, but it is so important that I’m going to say something.
Part of the Light Fighter Concept that has become integral to Lodestone’s philosophy is scaling up or down based on circumstances or threat. It is silly to go to Walmart kitted-out to the max. It’s just as silly to think, “Nothing will happen today”, and go to Walmart with only your cell phone and a debit card.
My standard EDC consists of pistol, spare mag, knife, phone, med equipment, wallet (with an ounce of silver ‘cause I’m crazy like that), plus sturdy, weather-appropriate clothing. That is normal for me. I’d call that my base. If I’m going somewhere that I think the threat level is higher, I scale up. I add to my base.
So, with the events over the weekend, it’s obvious to me it is time to scale up. During our “Response to an Organized Attack” Conference held in early January, we covered the fact that there are terrorist sleeper cells here in the US. We talked about the Ninth Corps of the Quds Force (Iran Special Forces) whose area of operations is Europe and America. If and when they attack, whoever is there is the first responder and front-line combatant. It will take time for any organized response to arrive.
This past weekend as the events started to unfold, I spoke with many of my friends and associates. Friends that are still active-duty Green Berets, Federal Agents, and in the PA State Police. All of those I spoke with had pretty much the same thoughts and concerns about sleeper cells going active and striking. One of the concerns is for a timed, coordinated attack at multiple locations. Imagine 15 different schools around the country being attacked by groups of 5 to 10 attackers at the same time. I went to church on Sunday with a little more “equipment” than usual.
As Iran gets more desperate, I think attacks will happen here. I hope I’m wrong. I hope this is all for nothing. But because the threat is real, I’m scaling up. I’ll stay this way until I think the threat level decreases. Another thing to think about: What is your relationship with your local first responders? Start building one, if you haven’t already.
This is not a checklist for you to follow. This is just an example that works for me. I encourage you to think about it and scale up as it makes sense for you and your circumstances.
In addition to my “base EDC”, I’m rolling with my AR pistol with a Law Tactical Folder. (In Pennsylvania, you can’t travel with a loaded rifle but a pistol is OK). That folder is essential for me to keep it low profile. I keep it in 5.56, and not something else, for two primary reasons. One, I know 5.56 better than any other caliber. Two, I personally have more round options in 5.56 than any other. Everything from M193 to M855A1. It has a dedicated light and an old-school, reflexive sight that does not need batteries.
In a non-“tacticool” bag, I have a Plate Carrier with ceramic front, back, and side plates. On the carrier I’m carrying four 30-round mags, smoke, Broco Jimmy bar, trauma shears, radio, wide Sof-T torniquet, and an IFAK. Also in the bag is a suppressor, gloves, extra mags, and cleaning kit.
Not in the bag, but in my truck, is my trusty Mossy Forge tomahawk, stocked Aid-Bag, chemical deterrent in a can, plus other stuff. When adding all of this extra equipment, I’ve tried as hard as I can to not have it stand out, but it’s kept in a way that I can quickly get to it. If I feel the need, I have an additional small bag with helmet and Night Vision I can throw into the truck as well.
Do I honestly think my little area of Pennsylvania is a prime target? No. But there is one lesson we should never forget from the 9/11 attacks. The only effective fighting force The United States raised that morning was a small group of normal people who realized what was going on and fought back.
There is no telling when and where the next attack will come, but right now the threat level is extremely high. I think it’s common sense to act and prepare accordingly. With no warning, you could find yourself in the middle of an attack. It just might be you that makes a difference.
God bless the Republic
—Jared Ross