Dozens Protest Vaccine Mandate

Nearly 100 demonstrators lined Preacher Roe Blvd. in West Plains on Friday to speak out against the federal COVID-19 mandate announced last month. Every individual this observer approached is currently employed by Leonardo DRS. Organizers said they have until December 8 to choose the vaccine or, for many present, the loss of decades-long employment. 

Del Wynne is the organizer of the demonstration, and he has worked at DRS for 31 years. His colleague, Gary Gann, was protesting alongside him. Gann has also worked for DRS for 31 years. 

Every individual interviewed about their personal reasons for refusing the vaccine gave a unique answer. For Wynne, he has religious objections.

“My soul is made of Jesus Christ, and I do not want to do anything to harm Him,” he said. He has applied for a religious exemption. 

Both he and Gann say they have already had COVID-19 and would like to be able to prove their antibody status in preference to the vaccine. 

Steven Russell has been employed at Leonardo DRS for over five years. He was demonstrating because, “Nobody should be required to have a medical procedure to keep employment. It should be a choice. It shouldn’t be forced.”

Others made it clear that they do not blame their employer for obeying the federal mandate, but instead they take issue with the federal mandate. In addition to the demonstration, organizers have been contacting their state and local representatives. 

As the assembly stood peacefully holding their signs and chatting among themselves, a constant stream of motorists passing by on the busy street honked and waved in support. Not everyone agreed. Wynne said the demonstration attracted some criticism and rude gestures from passersby as well. 

Leonardo DRS could not be reached for comment.