As a citizen and former Law Enforcement Officer, I support the request to allow the otherwise legal carry of firearms, including handguns, within the State Forests.  As has been mentioned before, potential threat to life exists nearly everywhere in today's society, and there is no reason to prohibit those already authorized to possess and carry firearms for defensive purposes from possessing and carrying those weapons within the confines of State Forests.  Contrary ot the beliefs of some, Law Enforcement does not have the ability to protect all citizens in all places at all times, and those who have chosen to develop the knowledge, skills and ability to protect themselves and their families in the absence of Law Enforcement should be allowed to do so.  If it matters to anyone, I make this request on my own behalf;  I am not a member of VCDL, although I wholeheartedly support VCDL's position on this issue.