Preparedness
Vietnam Vet’s Sharp Defense against Knife-Wielding Intruder Unfolds
An elderly amputee and Vietnam War veteran, Danny Ricketts, recounted the harrowing experience of waking up to a knife-wielding intruder attempting to break into his bedroom in his Albuquerque, New Mexico home. Speaking to KOB-TV, Ricketts shared his quick response to the threat, which involved a gun and a stern warning.
According to Ricketts, the troubling incident unfolded early in the morning when he noticed a knife wiggling under his window, indicating an intruder’s attempt to break in. He stated, “I could see it was a knife sticking under the window, sort of wiggling back and forth, and the window was coming up.”
Given his physical condition, Ricketts, who uses a wheelchair and suffers from PTSD, keeps a firearm within reach for self-defense. He shared his immediate reaction, “I keep a pistol on my nightstand under a hat. I reached and got it and I said, I still don’t know quite what I said, ‘What the f*** you doing, get the hell away from here’ something like that.”
Ricketts fired a single shot causing the suspect to flee, and his first glance at the scene led him to believe his shot had missed. He said, “I looked at the window, and I didn’t see any blood, and I didn’t see any bodies. So I thought I missed initially, and I was kind of grateful at that.”
Albuquerque police, however, found the intruder mortally wounded in the street, as revealed by surveillance footage from a neighboring camera. The suspect was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Albuquerque Police Spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos stated that initial findings suggest Ricketts had acted in self-defense. Gallegos stated, “Sounds like this gentleman the other day he called police, he secured his firearm, I believe, he told them exactly what happened,” He cautioned citizens against pursuing suspects even in threatening situations, noting the legal implications, “You can protect yourself if there’s a fear of harm or protect somebody else. You can’t protect your property by using deadly force.”
The case remains under investigation and the final decision on whether Ricketts will face charges lies with the district attorney’s office.
Watch a local news report about the incident below:
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Survival isn’t just about wilderness skills or stockpiling food. In today’s America, survival means being ready — financially, mentally, and physically — for rapid change. Under President Trump’s current term, the country is moving fast. Supporters see decisive leadership, tougher borders, economic nationalism, and a renewed focus on American strength. But with that speed comes disruption, resistance, and uncertainty. That’s where personal preparedness comes in.
President Trump has made it clear he believes in self-reliance, national security, and strength over dependence. Those same principles apply at the household level. Whether it’s supply chain pressure, political unrest, inflation, or grid stress, Americans who prepare are simply harder to shake.
1. Control What You Can Control
Trump’s presidency has emphasized America first — but that mindset starts at home. You may not control Congress, global markets, or activist judges, but you can control your food, water, cash reserves, and personal security. A prepared household is less vulnerable to sudden price spikes, shortages, or emergencies caused by political or economic battles in Washington.
Stocking basic food, having backup power, and keeping cash on hand isn’t paranoia — it’s responsibility.
2. Supply Chains Are Still Fragile
Despite economic growth claims and lower energy prices in some areas, grocery costs and essentials remain unpredictable. Trump’s push for tariffs and reshoring manufacturing is aimed at long-term strength, but transitions aren’t painless. Short-term disruptions happen before long-term gains materialize.
Smart Americans don’t wait for headlines to confirm trouble. They quietly build buffers: extra food, household necessities, and alternative sourcing.
3. Civil Unrest Isn’t Going Away
Trump’s presidency continues to expose deep political divides. Protests, counter-protests, and aggressive rhetoric aren’t disappearing — they’re becoming normalized. Survival today means knowing how to avoid trouble, not chase it.
Situational awareness, safe travel habits, and basic home security upgrades matter more now than they did a decade ago. Strong borders don’t eliminate internal instability overnight.
4. Medical and Personal Readiness Matter
Government systems get stressed during shutdowns, disasters, or mass events. Trump often criticizes bloated bureaucracy for a reason — it moves slowly when speed matters. Having basic medical supplies, prescriptions, and personal health plans ensures you don’t depend entirely on institutions that may lag when demand spikes.
Preparedness is independence.
5. Survival Is a Mindset, Not Fear
Trump supporters are often labeled “fearful,” yet preparedness is the opposite of fear. It’s confidence. It’s knowing that no matter what happens — politically, economically, or socially — your family is stable.
The core Trump message has always been strength, resilience, and refusing to be weak or dependent. Survival thinking aligns perfectly with that philosophy.
America is changing. Fast leadership brings fast reactions. The prepared citizen doesn’t panic, protest, or plead — they adapt.
Survival today isn’t about hiding from the future. It’s about being ready to face it head-on.
Traveling internationally can be rewarding, but it also carries risks that vary widely by destination and situation. The U.S. government offers specific safety guidelines to help American travelers prepare, stay informed, and protect themselves throughout their trip.
Here are key practices U.S. citizens should follow to stay safe overseas:
1. Check Travel Advisories Before You Go
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for every country. These advisories use a four-level system to show risk:
- Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
- Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- Level 3: Reconsider travel
- Level 4: Do not travel
Before booking or departing, always review the current advisory for your destination. Higher levels indicate serious risks like crime, civil unrest, terrorism, health emergencies, or limited emergency services.
2. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Before departure, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service connects you to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and keeps you informed with real-time updates about safety, weather, civil unrest, or health issues in your destination. It also makes it easier for authorities to contact you or your emergency contacts if needed.
3. Know Local Laws and Customs
U.S. citizens abroad must obey the laws of the country they are visiting. Local legal systems and penalties can differ significantly from those in the United States. Travelers should research local laws, dress codes, cultural norms, and any restricted activities before departure to avoid fines, detention, or legal complications.
4. Prepare Important Documents and Contacts
Carry your passport with you at all times and make digital copies of important documents like your passport page, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. Leave copies with someone at home and store them securely online. Keep local embassy contact information readily available in case you need assistance while abroad.
5. Have a Personal Emergency Plan
Emergencies can range from civil unrest and natural disasters to health crises and lost travel documents. Plan ahead:
- Know where the U.S. embassy or consulate is in your destination
- Have a communication plan with family or friends back home
- Know your travel insurance coverage and how to access medical care while abroad
- Understand evacuation routes and local emergency services
During a crisis, the U.S. government may not be able to evacuate you immediately. You should be ready to use commercial travel options to leave if it is safe to do so.
6. Stay Alert and Use Common Sense
Travel safety often comes down to ordinary precautions:
- Avoid risky areas and follow local authority instructions
- Keep a low profile and avoid displaying expensive items
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places
These practices reduce the chance of being targeted for theft or other crimes.
Why This Matters Today
Global travel risks can change quickly due to political tensions, health outbreaks, or civil unrest. For example, the U.S. government has issued worldwide travel caution alerts during periods of heightened international tension, underscoring the importance of staying updated with current risks.
Summary of Key Safety Steps
- Check official travel advisories for your destination
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Know local laws and customs
- Carry and secure important travel documents
- Prepare a personal emergency plan
- Stay alert and cautious throughout your trip
Traveling across the United States is one of the great freedoms Americans enjoy. Whether you’re driving state to state, flying cross-country, or taking a long road trip, staying safe and fully within the law doesn’t require anything complicated. It just takes preparation, awareness, and a few essentials that every traveler should have in place before they go.
Here are five things you need to travel across America confidently, safely, and legally.
1. Valid Government-Issued Identification
This is non-negotiable.
A valid ID proves who you are and allows you to travel without unnecessary delays or problems.
For most people, this means:
- A valid driver’s license or REAL ID
- A state-issued ID card if you don’t drive
- A valid U.S. passport (especially useful for air travel)
If you’re flying, your ID must meet TSA requirements. If you’re driving, your license must be current and not suspended. Keep your ID easily accessible, but secure.
2. Proof of Legal Residency or Citizenship (If Applicable)
If you are a U.S. citizen, carrying proof such as a passport or passport card adds an extra layer of security during long trips, especially near border states or when flying.
If you are a legal resident or visa holder, you should always carry:
- Your valid visa or green card
- Any required travel documents associated with your status
Having proper documentation protects you from misunderstandings and unnecessary stress.
3. Proper Vehicle Documents (If Driving)
If you’re traveling by car, make sure your paperwork is up to date.
This includes:
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- A valid driver’s license
Law enforcement checks are routine and usually brief when paperwork is in order. Keeping documents organized shows responsibility and helps everything go smoothly.
4. A Safe and Legal Travel Plan
You don’t need a strict itinerary, but you should know where you’re going and how you’ll get there.
A smart travel plan includes:
- Knowing your route and major stops
- Booking legal accommodations (hotels, campgrounds, or rentals)
- Understanding basic state laws (speed limits, phone use, toll roads)
Each state has its own rules, and being aware of them helps you avoid fines or problems.
5. Emergency Contacts and Communication
Safety isn’t just about laws — it’s about preparedness.
Carry a charged phone, a car charger or power bank, and a written list of emergency contacts in case technology fails.
It’s also wise to:
- Share your travel plans with someone you trust
- Check weather conditions regularly
- Keep emergency numbers saved and written down
Prepared travelers are calm travelers.
Final Thought
Traveling across America legally and safely doesn’t require fear or special permissions. It requires valid identification, proper documents, respect for local laws, and basic preparedness.
When you travel with everything in order, you’re free to enjoy the journey — not worry about it.
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Don
August 15, 2024 at 12:07 pm
Isn’t that nice that he is not being charged as of yet. If they find a MAGA hat in his position things will change.
Daniel Quigley
August 15, 2024 at 2:01 pm
Not just Veteran’s. Every single American has the Right to Defend themselves against Harm. The second someone brings any kind or type weapon along that’s when the use of Deadly Force should immediately be used. As for the Gun Grabbers their immediate response is always but there needs to be more training and stricter laws. News Flash you Mental Midgets a Criminal doesn’t care about Laws and the harder you make it for the Law Abiding Citizen to possess or carry a firearm the easier time the Criminal has. Case in point. Back quite a few years ago a man named Bernard Getz was minding his own business on the subway. Just after they pulled away from the station 12 kids started to taunt him with crowbars and sharpened screwdrivers. They told him they were going to rob him and cut him as well as beat him. So good Ole Bernie pulled his gun and started shooting them. He killed 2 or 3 and maimed a few others plus hitting several other’s with bullets but not causing severe injuries. Well Ole Bernie fled and for over 20 days the NYC Subway System was virtually crime free because the Criminal didn’t know who else might be packing heat. Bernie finally turned himself in somewhere in Connecticut and within 1 hour Crime was back in the Subway System. Statistics Prove that everyone a Law Abiding Citizen can easily obtain a CCL or Concealed Carry License the crime rate is way less than half of the areas where its pretty much impossible to get a CCL. We all know the Blue run Cities are the worst for crime and the reason is because the Liberal Democrat doesn’t believe anyone should carry a Gun except the police who they are trying to get rid of. I’m a Disabled Veteran and my Gun is never further then 1 foot away from wherever I happen to be sitting or laying down
MEP
August 15, 2024 at 5:16 pm
ALL Citizens Have The Right to Protect Themselves when confronted by a Criminal Breaking the Law and Threatening Society what’s Wrong with our Country under the Current Regime is they themselves have No Respect for Law and Order with All the Illegals coming into our Country bringing with Them the LAWLESS of where they came from with them AMERICANS Need to be READY to PROTECT themselves when the Woke will NOT lets Elect Conservative Politicians Judges Prosecutors who Respect Law and Order and rid Our Country of the Crap we See and hear about EVERY Single Day
Cosmo Aussie
August 15, 2024 at 5:17 pm
i AM IN AGREEMENT WITH THIS MAN SINCE HE WAS DISABLED, HOWEVER HE SHOULD HAVE LET THE GUY CRAWL THROUGH THE WINDOW BEFORE HE SHOT, TO BE ON THE INSIDE FO THE HOUSE WITH A DEADLY WEAPON.