NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. — A social media post about an armed soldier refused service at a Waffle House restaurant has gone viral.
Billy Welch says he was told to leave his gun in his vehicle or he wouldn’t be served, according to WLEX.
Welch, an Army National Guard soldier says, it’s all about safety and he was surprise by the response.
He said he stopped at the Waffle House wearing his military uniform, with his gun was by his side. When he ordered, he noticed a waitress and a manager signaling for him to come over.
“I got up and I walked over to them, asked them how they were doing and stuff, and they said I’d have to take my firearm outside,” said Welch. “I don’t feel comfortable taking my firearm away from me. I always keep it with me and they said, ‘it’s one of our policies.’”
Welch decided that he would leave.
A customer sitting in a booth nearby posted about the incident on Facebook.
Welch says he’s grateful for the support.
A statement from the owner of the restaurant reads in-part:
For many years we have had a “no firearms” policy in place in our restaurants.
We continue to believe this is the best policy for the safety of our customers and associates.
