A pro-gun rally in Schoharie County attracts hundreds. As YNN's Maria Valvanis explains, it was a letter from a World War II veteran that got the event going.

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SCHOHARIE COUNTY, N.Y. -- "As a veteran we fought for our liberties and freedoms. And, I hate to see them eroded in this matter," said Art Van Aken, World War II veteran.

Van Aken, 87, said he was speaking from the heart, when he wrote a letter to Larry Bradt, the County Law Enforcement Committee Chair, about the SAFE Act.

"He's disappointed in our state, in our country, and he feels hurt," said Bradt.

Van Aken said, "I think our Governor should go overseas, walk around one of the military cemeteries, and just see what the veterans had to give up. It's so quiet over there. It just makes the tears come to your eyes."

In response to Van Aken's letter, Bradt set up Saturday's rally, dedicated to our veterans.
Hundreds braved the cold, and dozens of local officials spoke, all portraying Van Aken's same message.

Schoharie County Sheriff, Tony Desmond, said "I am totally against the SAFE Act. I believe that the constitution was written and law abiding citizens should be able to obtain a weapon without any interference from the government."

"My father was a World War II vet and this is a slap in the face," said rally attendee, Charlie Rhoades.

Speakers said the law is an extra slap in the face towards Schoharie County. They believe any money put aside to enforce it, would be better served helping with Tropical Storm Irene cleanup, and the school's fiscal problems.

"I don't like our liberties taken away from us," said Van Aken.