If you have browsed around this website, you may have noticed that I posted this on the "About" page as well. I decided to post it here in the "Blog" in order to give you a chance to respond and share your thoughts too.

"Hiring armed security is a serious decision made by individuals and businesses, and should not be taken lightly. Here in Ohio, all armed security officers are required to pass a 20-hour firearms course, including an annual re-qualification course.

Unfortunately, many security companies use this bare minimum requirement by law as the template for their armed guard training. My extensive firearms training includes not only the basic 20-hour firearms qualification/re-qualifications, but 8 years as a commissioned police officer, 4-years as an infantryman (rifleman) in the United States Marine Corps, and countless hours of practice during my off-time with my service weapon and any/all backup weapons.

During my law enforcement career, I personally have fired and exceeded Ohio minimum qualifications with various firearms ranging from a .38 snub nosed revolver, .38 caliber service pistol, .9mm pistol, .40 caliber pistol, .45 caliber pistol, and 12 gauge shotgun.

Any armed security company you choose to hire is essentially sending you the individual whose job it is to protect your life and possibly the lives of others. Don't let it be during a shooting that you decide that the company you hired to ensure you come home to your family sent a guard who was merely "qualified enough." I believe not only exceeding expectations with customer service, but with training as well. As a client, so should you!"

- Dale J. Papes

Northstar Investigations and Security, LLC

(Owner)