Encountering suicides, first on the scene.

Sad but important, thank you for posting.

JeffG said:

I think as a group, by and large we are helpers, sheepdogs and leaders.

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No.

JeffG said:

Our neighbors and family probably see us in that role, too.

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Again, No.

JeffG said:

as people who "rush in, where angels fear to tread",

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There's a word for people like that

I am not a "Sheep Dog". I do not see the fact that I am a permit holder conferring upon me the status of "Adjunct Law Enforcement Officer" nor does it impute to me any duty or authority to respond.

The reason the sheepdog idea bothers me is that implies some type of authority that we (as private citizens) simply don't have. I've dealt with minor emergencies at work where I actually had authority and if not a duty at least an obligation to respond and have had people simply ignore my commands. I'm sure it wouldn't work out much better off shift where I'm not clearly uniformed and have neither the authority nor inclination to step in.

I'm not saying I wouldn't attempt to render what assistance I'm able but I have no intention of attempting to take any "leadership" role

Trunk Monkey said:

The reason the sheepdog idea bothers me is that implies some type of authority that we (as private citizens) simply don't have

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I have never liked the Sheepdog mentality either. Even when I was still in the military. Selfish dog is more accurate. I protect myself and my family. Anyone else who does or might get saved by my actions is a bonus. I do not feel a duty to protect others as a citizen with a firearm.

A sheepdog only protects the sheep in his flock.

As for suicidal people they can be extremely dangerous. If you have reason to believe that someone you know is contemplating suicide, or in the process of doing it, especially with a weapon, call the police immediately. They have a lot more training and experience and resources than most people. Also, during an emotional crisis sometimes the least effective person is someone close to the victim. Just food for thought.

Interesting, but not really gun and/or self-defense related. And certainly not the place to debate the old "sheepdog" trope.

I retired from the job 27 years. Unless me or mine are in danger 911 gets called.