Longmeadow, MA – Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) announces the receipt of a significant donation from Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc., whose online auction of several collectible firearms yielded a $30,000 windfall for the good works of HAVA in support of disabled veterans. Eight historical firearms, including several prototypes and one model over 40 years old, were included in a series of auctions conducted since February, 2011. A M77® Mark II Takedown rifle and a rare, low serial number No. 1-AB .308 engraved rifle from 1969 were the top attractions, drawing bids in excess of $8,000 each.
“Ruger has really made a difference with this series of unique gun auctions for HAVA’s benefit,” said Tom Taylor, HAVA Chairman. “The proceeds from this program will help fund several major events in 2011, and allow HAVA to serve hundreds of additional disabled veterans whose service and sacrifice have bolstered the cause of freedom. These veterans often struggle with reintegration into civilian life, and HAVA hunts and shooting events can help them connect with outdoor life. Helping to rebuild their confidence in the future, despite their disability, is the payoff for the HAVA organization, and this large donation will go far in achieving our 2011 goals.”
HAVA will conduct events in 15 states this year and hopes to contribute to the rehabilitation of nearly 1,000 disabled veterans and their families, who have suffered equally. Its flagship event, HAVA’s 4th Annual National Family Day, annually serves over 200 veterans, their spouses and children, in a full day of shooting, food, professional exhibitions, music and fellowship. Other shooting events in California, Washington, North Carolina, and Georgia have served hundreds of veterans, and hunts in a dozen states have been effective therapy for these disabled warriors who have given their full measure of commitment to America – and deserve all of the support that we can achieve.
“It is Ruger’s privilege and honor to contribute to the HAVA mission this year, and we intend to continue to support this cause which serves such deserving American heroes,” said Chris Killoy, Ruger Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Donating valuable pieces of Ruger history could serve no greater good than to help contribute to the re-building of lives interrupted by national service and sacrifice. Hats off also to Ruger gun collectors who purchased these unique guns knowing the proceeds would be used for such an excellent cause.”
If you would like to participate in future auctions that benefit HAVA and other deserving industry organizations, visit Ruger.com/Auction.
About HAVA
HAVA 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, Yamaha, Crimson Trace, Leupold & Stevens, Surefire, Mossberg, Hornady, FMG Publications, and the NRA among numerous contributing companies. Those who would like to learn more and/or contribute to the HAVA mission can do so at www.honoredveterans.org.
