Pete Brownell, CEO of Brownells Inc. (left), receives a plaque of appreciation from Norman (Okla.) Police Chief Keith L. Humphrey on Tuesday at the Royce O. Whettle Norman Police Department Training Facility.
NORMAN, OK – In an era of ongoing budget cuts and reduced city revenues, local police departments and other agencies are often asked to do more and more with less and less. These budget shortfalls can result in a range of consequences, including a lack of adequate training opportunities. Through an infusion of resources from the private sector in the form of a generous donation from a firearms industry leader, the Norman Police Department and personnel from 20 different local, state and federal agencies will now benefit from enhanced targeting systems on the shooting range.
This spring, Pete Brownell, CEO of Brownells Inc., received word from Gary Giudice, president and founder of Norman-based Blue Heron Communications, that the shooting target systems at the Royce O. Whettle Norman Police Department Training Facility were in desperate need of an upgrade. Brownell responded in kind, working with Giudice to coordinate a donation of more than $30,000 in advanced targeting systems that will be utilized by SWAT Teams, snipers and other law enforcement officers.
“Brownells is dedicated to giving back to officers when they have a need because these officers are always there for us whenever we have a need,” Brownell said. “We believe that a partnership between the public and private sector is the best way to ensure that these brave professionals have access to the best training equipment possible.”
On Tuesday, Norman Police Department officials presented Brownell with a plaque of appreciation and observed the official opening of the upgraded shooting facility.
“The commitment that the officers of this department give to rigorous firearms is shown through the many awards and accolades collected by those in this department,” said Norman Police Chief Keith L. Humphrey. “This generous donation from Brownells Inc. enhances officer training through increased efficiency and available simulations.”
Brownells Inc. is the world’s largest supplier of firearms accessories and gunsmithing tools and a favorite retailer among law enforcement professionals. For Giudice, the idea of bringing together a civic-minded benefactor like Brownell and a police department in need seemed like a natural fit.
“I live in this city; I own a business based in this city and I count many local law enforcement officers as close, personal friends. What benefits Norman police officers and the numerous other agencies that utilize this facility benefits us all,” said Giudice. “In these times when everyone wants to cut taxes and cut back on spending it’s good to have people like Pete Brownell to help close those gaps.”
