Thomas P. Arvas Albuquerque, NM 87109 August 7, 2005 Dear Mr. Arvas, Since you are a member of the NRA Nominating Committee I am writing to inform you that I have submitted John P. Burtt's name as a candidate to your committee for the NRA Board ballot. Please allow me to give you some background information on John, and urge your support for his nomination to the ballot. As a co-founder, past-president, director, and editor for the Fifty Caliber Shooters Association (FCSA), I've known and worked with John over the last 13 years. John has served the FCSA as a vice-president and director, and has been a competitive fifty caliber match shooter. John also wrote the original charter and bylaws for the FCSA. Due to growing political attacks against fifty caliber owners, John founded the Fifty Caliber Institute (FCI; www.fiftycal.org) in 2000. Since that time, John has been the lifeblood and voice of that organization. He has raised funds for the FCI, and testified in front of numerous legislatures on behalf of fifty caliber shooters. John is a retired police officer and detective from the Riverside, CA department. Prior to serving as a police officer, John served our military in the Navy. I've always admired John's energy and willingness to "put his money where his mouth was." He is hard working, and possesses the highest level of integrity. Being retired and still at a young age of 59, John has a good amount of time and energy to give to the NRA Board. He has delegated most of his FCI duties such that remaining responsibilities would not interfere with NRA Board activities. I must commend the NRA Board for being able to attract many famous named people to serve on the board of directors. I believe that you also need grassroots people like John Burtt to compliment those who may not have a large amount of time to dedicate to board duties. Another benefit to your committee's support of John would be to show members and our political enemies that the NRA is supporting all firearm owners like the owners of fifty caliber rifles who seem to be a favored target for the antigun factions. Thank you for your consideration of John's candidacy. If there is anything else that I can provide please call or write. Sincerely,   Eric Williams, Ph.D.