Project mixes marksmanship, history

Project Appleseed is coming to Columbia Falls for a June 2-3 rifle shoot at the North Valley Sportsman Club.

Organizers said the two-day event teaches people how to handle rifles and become better shots and learn about the role rifle marksmanship has played in America’s heritage.

The volunteer-run nonprofit organization is affiliated with the Revolutionary War Veterans Association. It was started by Jack Daly, a former columnist for Shotgun News.

“He felt that a lot of folks don’t know how to use firearms,” said George Hacker, a Project Appleseed volunteer who lives in Washington state.

Hundreds of events have been held around the country. This will be the first in the Flathead, where rifles are a part of life for many.

“We teach people firearm safety. Then we teach them the basics and how to shoot accurately,” Hacker said.

During breaks and lunches, Project Appleseed volunteers talk about the important role rifle marksmanship has played in America’s heritage, particularly during the Revolutionary War.

Discussions focus on names and places of April 19, 1775, and the battles of Lexington and Concord, some of the first military engagements between armed colonists and British soldiers.

“That was the real turning point, the point of no return for the colonies,” Hacker said.

Project Appleseed events are free for active duty military and people in the Guard and Reserve. They are free for law enforcement officers, elected officials and people with disabilities. Otherwise they cost $5 for people under 21, $10 for women or $70 for all others.

Whitefish resident Jared Sibbitt worked to organize the Flathead’s first Project Appleseed event.

“I heard about it and it seemed like the most economical way to get some professional training in handling a rifle,” Sibbitt said.

The emphasis on rifle marksmanship caught his eye, but the focus on its role in American heritage “set the hook.”

The response in the Flathead has been strong. All 30 spots quickly sold out.

“As long as there’s people who want to shoot and learn the story of the American Revolution we’ll be happy to do these,” Sibbitt said. “We’re hoping to get another date on the calendar before the end of this year.”

For more information about Project Appleseed or other upcoming events visit www.appleseedusa.org.

Reporter Tom Lotshaw may be reached at 758-4483 or by email at tlotshaw@dailyinterlake.com.