While the mainstream media was focused on the Middle East, a remarkable act of courage and preparedness took place in Wayne, Michigan — and went virtually unnoticed.
On Sunday morning, June 22, 2025, a man armed with both a handgun and a rifle opened fire at CrossPointe Community Church, just 30 minutes after the service began.
Over 150 unarmed men, women, and children were inside.
But they weren’t alone.
There were armed citizens among them — protectors.
One church deacon, who was in the parking lot when the shooting began, immediately took action. Without hesitation, he rammed the attacker with his Ford F-150 while the shooter was actively firing at him.
As the attacker hit the ground, two other parishioners — both USCCA members — drew their legally carried handguns and neutralized the threat with precision and speed.
What’s even more extraordinary is that just days earlier, both had completed a USCCA training class titled “Protecting Houses of Worship.”
This was not luck.
Lives were saved not because of chance, but because good people had the courage to prepare. Because they trained. Because they carried. Because they acted.
One of the armed defenders later said:
“The question that had always been in the back of my mind was: if I hear gunfire, will I run toward it or away from it? I answered that question yesterday.”
This story is not just about firearms. It’s about mindset, responsibility, and freedom. In free societies, individuals are empowered to protect themselves and their communities. In disarmed societies, tragedy is all but guaranteed.
At the Defense Institute, we stand for a world where citizens can make the same choice — to be ready. To be armed. To be free.
Stay vigilant.
Stay trained.
Stay free.
