The NRA’s 152nd Annual Meetings & Exhibits was held in Indiana at the Indianapolis Convention Center this past April. 77,246 NRA members attended the three days of events.

NRA Executive Vice President, Wayne LaPierre, spoke representing the voice of freedom, “I am freedom, and I’m proud, and all I ask in return is that you talk about me, stand up for me, and tell your kids why so many have died for me. I am offended that career criminals that abuse me are set free time and time again. I’m offended when DAs don’t do their jobs, and prosecutors don’t do the jobs they were hired to do. I am freedom, and I’m more relevant than ever.”

President of the NRA Charles Cotton addressed the membership, and there were also messages delivered by our national leaders, including congressmen, senators, and governors, as well as by Indiana’s own former Governor and former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence. Topping the event was a rousing speech from the 45th President of the United States Donald Trump.

There were more than 14 acres of guns and hunting gear, allowing NRA members to see and handle the latest in new firearms, visit with guides and outfitters and check out the educational exhibits. There were also dozens of workshops, celebrity appearances and free seminars.

NRA Life-Member Mike Williams expressed the feelings of many in the crowd, “This is great, it’s fantastic to be here with so many freedom-loving patriots, yes we are back.” 

NRA Life-Member, hunter and the Governor of South Dakota, Kristi Noam, was recognized and presented with the Distinguished Hunters Leadership Award to honor her leadership in protecting the future of hunting and wildlife conservation. She said, “How dare we leave our children with less of a country than we grew up in.”

North Carolina LT. Governor Mark Robinson spoke and emphasized on women leaders since the beginning of time, he said, “Throughout history, it has always been women who stood up in the role of leadership, taking a role to ensure that freedom reigns forever.” 

Plans are already underway for the 153rd NRA Convention to be held in Dallas, Texas in May 2024.

I’m ending my column with a sad note, Jay Meddaugh of Kauneonga Lake has passed. Jay was the president of the first bass club formed in Sullivan County and it was called the First Bassmasters of Sullivan County. Rest in peace my friend!