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Notes -
Could interpret it either as a push to get them to move forward against their instincts, or perhaps an "I've got your back man, let's do this together" encouragement thing.
Either way, definitely one of those subtle acts that can break a person out of paralysis and into meaningful action.
Probably both.
It's worth noting that pushing the rifle forward was unequivocally the right answer; you don't want to engage a rifle with a pistol if you can help it.
Yeah, I was seriously impressed with the sheer presence of mind on display too. Running headfirst into the shooter wielding a pistol can indeed still be 'heroic' but when you've got backup with shotguns and rifles right behind you, choosing the tactically sound option is completely justified.
Again, keeping those guys moving forward and coordinated enough to act together pretty much ensured a swift end to the conflict. Basically the shooter might have been able to get a lucky shot off and take out one of the officers, but even the mighty AR-15 isn't going to let you gun down 5-6 armed responders before they get you. Unless they panic and can't aim for shit.
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