Changing the Narrative: How I Choose to Honor My Sister

Changing the Narrative: How I Choose to Honor My Sister

On December 20, 2023, my life changed forever. I lost one of the most important people in my world, my sister Diane to gun violence. You might assume an event so devastating would cause me to turn away from firearms altogether, to speak out against the Second Amendment. However, it led to a new direction for me that I had not previously considered.

Even before this tragedy, I had a vision of being part of Firewall Armory. Growing up around firearms and later serving in the Marine Corps, I understood the responsibility and discipline that comes with carrying a weapon. I knew I had the skills and experience to help make Firewall a success. But it wasn’t until I lost my sister that my mission became crystal clear.

The truth is, Diane had a firearm when her life was taken. But in the chaos of that moment, the stress, the fear, the overwhelming anxiety, she couldn’t use it to defend herself. That painful reality has stayed with me every single day. It wasn’t the presence of a firearm that failed her; it was the lack of training to respond under duress.

That’s where my purpose now lies. With Firewall Armory, I am committed to changing the narrative around firearms. Too often, the conversation is framed as division: pro-gun versus anti-gun. But the real issue is preparation, confidence, and responsibility. A firearm is only as effective as the person trained to use it. Our mission is to empower individuals to not only handle their firearms but to do so with confidence in high-pressure situations, when it matters most.

No one should lose their life the way my sister did. If training, education, and readiness can save even one person from that fate, then this work is worth everything. I will carry Diane’s memory with me into every class, every training session, and every conversation about responsible gun ownership.

I believe in the potential of Firewall Armory to create meaningful change. Not just for people like me who grew up around firearms, but for anyone who wants to feel secure, prepared, and capable of protecting themselves and their loved ones. This isn’t just about firearms; it’s about empowerment, confidence, and survival.

I am proud to be part of this mission. And I know Diane would be, too