Proceeds will benefit HAVA's programs to support disabled veterans and wounded active duty military personnel. A check representing the donation was presented to Tom Taylor, Chairman of HAVA, by Smith & Wesson President and CEO, James Debney, at SHOT Show.
Attendees at this year's customer appreciation event were treated to 'Vegas Night', an evening that included playing a variety of Las Vegas table games. Later in the evening, players could use their "winnings" to bid on a variety of Smith & Wesson donated products including a Thompson/Center Dimension rifle, a new product line launched at the event, a BODYGUARD® pistol, a number of other Smith & Wesson firearms and several American Express gift cards. In conjunction with the event, the company donated $50,000 to HAVA. The donation was supplemented with an additional, personal contribution made by Larry Massimo, Executive Vice President of Davidson's.
"It is our privilege and great honor to support these true American heroes who have defended the freedom that we all cherish," said Debney. "As a founding member and continuing sponsor of HAVA, we greatly appreciate the work this organization does to support these deserving Americans who have sacrificed so much on behalf of our nation and our citizenry."
Taylor said, "Smith & Wesson has been in the forefront of HAVA's development over the past five years, and overwhelmed us with this largest-ever donation to help with a greatly expanded warrior support program in 2012. These wounded warriors have given their full commitment to protecting freedom and the support of Smith & Wesson and numerous other shooting sports companies allows us to help them re-capture confidence in their future. HAVA represents the best instincts of our industry, and we welcome financial or in kind donations from all of its member companies who share our passion for serving these heroes who have given so much."
About HAVAHAVA is a 501[c]3 organization formed by companies in the shooting and outdoor industry with the purpose of raising awareness and further assisting disabled veterans with their healing process through guided hunts, shooting sports and other outdoor sports activities. The sustaining sponsor companies are Smith & Wesson, NSSF, Mossberg, Yamaha Outdoors, Crimson Trace, Leupold & Stevens, Surefire, Ho rnady, Ruger, XS Sights and FMG Publications among numerous contributing companies. Those who would like to learn more about the HAVA mission can do so at www.honoredveterans.org
