Eighty-four attendees were treated to a free day of shooting sports during the Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) 2nd Annual event at the Tacoma (Washington) Sportsman’s Club, which took place earlier this month. A cadre of volunteers assembled from across the United States to ensure participants could safely enjoy shooting activities that included trap, crossbow and trigger time behind lever-action rifles, semi-automatic pistols and single-action revolvers.
“This annual event is a collaborative effort from the outdoor industry to support disabled veterans and honor their families for their sacrifice,” said Tom Taylor, HAVA executive director. “The event offers a welcoming environment for all participants and the opportunity to connect with other veterans from multiple branches of the U.S. armed forces. We are honored to support these great Americans on behalf of the entire industry.”
Attendees were also treated to food and prizes that included firearms, optics and other high-end raffle items donated by members of the industry. Each attendee also received stuffed backpacks with a variety of products.
“I have a severe back injury and can’t shoot firearms without assistance,” explained one of the women veteran attendees. “This event was great because I miss shooting and the HAVA staff really helped me shoot and learn something new. I particularly liked the single-action revolver as I had never fired one of these before.”
On Nov. 4 HAVA will hold its 14th Annual Family Day at the San Antonio (Texas) Police Training Academy. Veterans are encouraged to bring their loved ones. Full details are available on the organization’s website and registration opens Oct. 2.
Across the nation, in Epping, NH, the fifth annual Adaptive Defensive Shooting Summit (ADSS) took place Sept. 13 to 16 at the SIG Sauer Academy and Experience Center. Dozens attended, learning personal-protection techniques from the pros and competing in friendly matches to reinforce those lessons.
“This year we had a woman who had never fired a gun in her life and we also had people who can compete heads up with the best shooters in the country. Everyone is welcome at ADSS,” said ADSS founder Trevor Baucom.
