Smith & Wesson Donates $50,000 to Veterans Organization

by
posted on May 31, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
hava2016_lorres.jpg

Smith & Wesson Corp. presented Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) with $50,000 at the 2016 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Louisville, Ky. The donation will support ongoing programs designed to assist disabled veterans and wounded active duty military personnel. Matt Buckingham, president of Smith & Wesson's firearms division, presented the donation to Tom Taylor, chairman of HAVA, during a special ceremony at the Smith & Wesson booth.

"For the last nine years, HAVA has enhanced the lives of thousands of military men, women and their families by enabling them to reconnect with the shooting sports as they return home from active service," said Buckingham. "These men and women have made incredible sacrifices on behalf of our nation and we view it as a privilege and honor to continue to support them throughout the healing process as they seek to reconnect with the outdoors."

Formed in 2007 by several companies in the shooting, hunting and outdoor industry, HAVA has focused its efforts on raising awareness and assisting disabled combat veterans with their healing process through outdoor activities as they transition back into their normal lives. To date, HAVA has sponsored events in over 20 different states. With continued support from its co-sponsors, which include major firearm and outdoor equipment manufacturers, HAVA has been able to heighten awareness of issues facing disabled veterans upon returning home. Donations from these companies are crucial for HAVA, which hosts numerous outdoor activities, including hunts and shooting events, each year.

"As a founding member, Smith & Wesson has remained steadfast in its commitment to HAVA and the veterans it serves by being the leading contributor of funds and products for the organization," said Taylor. "Through these donations and those received from other sponsors, HAVA has grown substantially and we have been able to expand existing and new programs to better serve the men and women of our Armed Forces. HAVA is privileged to have the backing of all its supporters and we pledge to continue serving those who have protected our freedoms both abroad and at home."

Latest

Christensen Rifles factory floor
Christensen Rifles factory floor

Building Christensen Rifles: A Hands-On View

A cutting-edge enterprise takes on the lightweight-hunting-rifle market with models that defy expectations—all without flinching.

New For 2026: 25 WBY RPM

The 25 WBY RPM is the 17th proprietary cartridge developed by Weatherby, a company whose name is synonymous with magnum cartridges and bullet speed.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 12, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Firearm Industry Philanthropic Efforts Endure, Despite Lagging Gun Sales

Gun sales in 2025 may not eclipse records, but the firearm industry’s generosity continues to abound, even within challenging economic circumstances.

Product : Ten21 Tactical “The Junk Drawer” Tripod Hammock

Precision shooters using tripods to support their rifles can keep miscellaneous gear organized and within reach by attaching The Junk Drawer by Ten21 Tactical to the tripod’s legs.

Review: SAR USA SAR9 SOCOM Compact

The SAR9 SOCOM Compact from SAR USA packs popular tactical features into a compact package.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.