Gettysburg National Military Park Superintendent Steven D. Sims said no laws were broken by armed protestors who gathered at monuments and the Lincoln Cemetery during the July 4 weekend.
“It is not illegal for a person to carry a firearm in the park per state law. Firearms, however, are not allowed in park buildings,” said Sims. “I am not aware of any laws that were broken.”
Sims
Sims said the individuals did not need a permit. “The park encourages everyone who desires to exercise their first amendment rights to apply for a permit so that we can properly accommodate them. When groups do not apply for a permit we will do our best to accommodate them,” said Sims.
When asked whether the presence of armed individuals around monuments might deter tourism, Sims replied “Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site are the nation’s parks. We strive to educate all visitors on the relevance and meaning that these places have and want everyone to visit and find their personal connection. They are part of the American fabric.”
Sims again thanked the many law enforcement personnel who were on hand over the weekend. “The local, state and federal law enforcement community was here in vast numbers over the weekend. They did a fantastic job coordinating and communicating throughout the holiday weekend.”
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.