from the linked article...
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“As the former Commanding General of the Infantry Center at Fort Benning and Chief of Infantry, I know a bit about weapons. Let me state UNEQUIVOCALLY — For all intents and purposes, the AR-15 AND RIFLES LIKE IT are weapons of war." (emphasis mine)
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Also, when we covered this issue previously, I presented a video in which an active duty Marine Gunnery Sergeant explains why the AR-15 is truly an "Assault Rifle"...your argument is pure "Trope".
Link: https://www.upworthy.com/military-general-explains-ar15-weapon-of-war-rp