This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon, Dec. 19, 2012 - On Monday morning, the Beacon filed a request with the National Rifle Association, asking for its opinion on what should be done to curb violence in America.
The following is the NRA's reply:
The National Rifle Association of America is made up of four million moms and dads, sons and daughters – and we were shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the horrific and senseless murders in Newtown.
Out of respect for the families, and as a matter of common decency, we have given time for mourning, prayer and a full investigation of the facts before commenting.
The NRA is prepared to offer meaningful contributions to help make sure this never happens again.
The NRA is planning to hold a major news conference in the Washington, D.C., area on Friday, December 21.
Details will be released to the media at the appropriate time.