Spirit of Blue Buys LMT Rifles for Michigan State Police

by
posted on December 31, 2018
spirit-of-blue-donates-lmt-rifles-michigan-f.jpg

The Spirit of Blue Foundation announced on Dec. 21, 2018, that it awarded an Equipment Safety Grant to the Michigan State Police (MSP) in the form of five Lewis Machine & Tool Defense (LMT Defense) tactical rifles valued at a combined $12,995. The firearms will be used by the agency’s Emergency Support Team.

“The Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team handles over 200 high-risk calls for service each year,” said MSP Director, Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue. “We sincerely appreciate the generosity of the Spirit of Blue Foundation, LMT Defense and Law Enforcement United. I assure you that your support of our team will have a significant impact across the state of Michigan.”

LMT donated the rifles and Law Enforcement United—an organization that has supported the Spirit of Blue’s efforts since 2016—also contributed to the grant. The CQB10-MARS-LA rifles feature a fully ambidextrous lower assembly, 10.5-inch barrel, railed hand guards, select-fire trigger group and other enhancements making it well suited for the Emergency Support Team’s use.


“We are very happy to see these amazing tools go to such a very professional and deserving agency,” said Ryan T. Smith, executive director of the Spirit of Blue Foundation. “From the command staff all the way down to the most junior member of the Emergency Support Team, it is clear that the people of Michigan are served incredibly well. And now this team will have an extra measure of capability to employ if and when it is necessary.”

Statistics maintained by the Officer Down Memorial Page indicate at least 145 law enforcement officers lost their lives in 2018—a 6-percent increase over the previous year.  The Spirit of Blue’s grant initiative is tailored to address the reality of that statistic, and the increasing number of underfunded law enforcement agencies across the country.

Michigan’s Emergency Support Team was established in 1974 and consists of tactical and negotiator components. “This unit utilizes equipment and training necessary for extremely difficult and/or dangerous tasks in such areas as hostage rescue, barricaded gunmen, high risk arrest and search warrant service, VIP security and counter terrorism,” according to its web page.

Latest

Streamlight Stinger 2020 S Flashlight
Streamlight Stinger 2020 S Flashlight

First Look: Streamlight Stinger 2020 S Flashlight

Now available with a swappable, rechargeable battery pack.

First Look: Faxon ADJ Gas Block

Easily adjust your settings for suppressed to unsuppressed use.

Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Selects Night Fision Sights

The Optics Ready Stealth Series sights feature tritium vials that carry domed lenses optically engineered for superior visibility.

Review: PWS UXR Rifle

One rifle to rule them all?

First Look: High Speed Gear Gen2 Operator Belt

Equipped with MOLLE slots and an inner and outer belt for flexibility.

First Look: Davidson’s Exclusive Model 20 Revolver

Chambered in .357 Mag. rather than the original .38/44.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.