The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is condemning the senseless shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) and others attending a public event outside a Tucson supermarket on Saturday.
"This really hits home because the VFW is also a member of the Capitol Hill community," said its national commander Richard L. Eubank.
"Ms. Giffords is a valued member of the House Armed Services Committee who is committed to improving the quality of life for members of our Armed Forces and their families," said Eubank. "Our hearts and prayers of strength go out to all the victims and their families."
The media is reporting 18 people were shot by the 22-year-old suspect, who was tackled by witnesses and is in custody. Six are reportedly dead, to include a nine-year-old girl and a federal judge.
"We hope justice will be swift and severe for this person and anyone else who considers violence as a means to an end," said the VFW national commander. "That is not the American way."