Gentleman,
I think I need to remind everyone here that RTF Puuloa is a MILITARY training facility, thus use of the range is a privilege, NOT A RIGHT!!! Their primary mission is to conduct small arms training/qualification for Marines, soldiers, sailors and airman for deployment, NOT hosting civilian training courses or recreational shooting. Keep in mind that as far the military is concerned; anything else is secondary to that mission. The Puuloa Rifle & Pistol Club is officially organized under the USMC MWR (Morale Welfare & Recreation) program and is therefore subject to USMC rules and regulations. The PRPC does not dictate in any way shape or form who has access to the range, we simply are tenants/guests and as such we follow their rules & regulations to the letter. I have attended some of the previously mentioned courses (including Chuck Taylor & Gabe Suarez) both as a civilian participant and in my official capacity as a LEO firearms trainer and I enjoyed the training immensely. At the time, I was a rank & file member of the PRPC club and thus had no knowledge of the details surrounding those events. Later in the year, I was elected as the club president and after assuming my new role, I was astonished to find out that the club was not only under suspension but was in fact on the verge of disbandment by the USMC. The facts are that the club had been mismanaged and the classes brought in were never approved by the G-3 as a sanctioned club activity, as per USMC rules. The PRPC members who organized the events with LIFE failed to follow proper procedure and did so on their own without the PRPC's membership’s knowledge. Under my direction, the newly elected club officers met with USMC range officials and discussed what needed to be done to correct the situation. During the course of the discussions, we agreed to reorganize the club and manage it per our own bylaws & in accordance with USMC/MCBH rules and regulations. So there it is folks; it was either change the way we do business or face being disbanded. I personally agree with the changes that we've instituted and the way the club has been realigned with the bases military training mission. We support that mission by hosting high power rifle matches/clinics that are open to both civilian and military shooters as well as providing assistance with military small arms qualifications by providing volunteer coaching and instruction. Aside from traditional high power rifle shooting, we also host NRA F-Class shooting (precision/scoped rifles) and eventually it is my goal to introduce both combat type pistol and rifle disciplines to the club as well. Civilian shooters are always welcome to attend PRPC events and we especially welcome military members (active/retired/NG/Reserve) and civilian LEO's. Club membership for non military ID card holders is limited however there is a wait list that is based on participation. There is been a lot of misinformation being spread by people who know nothing about our club or the details that nearly brought about its demise. I can assure you that the incident regarding the 7.62 x 54 shell casing after the last class hosted by the old regime was merely the straw that broke the camels back and had nothing to do with our clubs realignment. The PRPC looks forward to working with LIFE or any other local shooting organization with the common goal of promoting marksmanship skills, firearms safety and sportsmanship. I think its time we lay this whole issue to rest once and for all and move on. Anyone wishing to discuss this matter further can email/PM me and I'll be glad to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Mahalo