This past August marks 46 years since I raised my right hand and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. In the summer of 1980, I entered active duty with a firm sense of civic duty and a deep desire to serve our great nation. Like so many who wear the uniform, I was ready to contribute directly to the defense of freedom.
At that time, my understanding of the full scope of individual rights was still developing. If asked about them, I would have spoken about the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. I might have discussed the ongoing American endeavor to align our nation with the ideals articulated in the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Paine’s Common Sense and The Federalist Papers.
But now, I would add that what these decades have taught me is that freedom is never guaranteed. It requires eternal vigilance and active contribution from every generation—not only from those serving in our Armed Forces, but from all of us in our communities, through civic engagement, and by supporting organizations that defend constitutional principles.
I joined the Marine Corps for that reason. Today, as executive vice president and CEO of the National Rifle Association, I see our role as one of the essential checks and balances blessed upon this republic—steadfastly protecting the Second Amendment and the individual right to keep and bear arms that underpins all our liberties.
Coincidentally, shortly after my commissioning, Ronald Reagan was sworn in as Commander-in-Chief in January 1981. Reagan had captured a profound truth years earlier in his Jan. 5, 1967, inaugural address as governor of California: “Freedom is a fragile thing and it’s never more than one generation away from extinction. It is not ours by way of inheritance. It must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation.”
Those words remain as relevant today as they were in 1967 or 1776. Behind us are great struggles and even greater accomplishments. Ahead lie challenges—but also extraordinary possibilities if we rise to meet them.
As we head into the Nov. 3, 2026, midterm elections, both houses of Congress are competitive. Our freedoms are once again on the ballot. I urge every NRA member and every law-abiding American to visit NRA-PVF.org and review where candidates stand on the right to keep and bear arms. This is not—and should never be—a purely partisan issue. The Second Amendment is a cornerstone of our liberty. Where a candidate stands on this right speaks volumes about their respect for the Constitution and the rule of law.
Recent events in Virginia offer a clear warning. A gubernatorial candidate campaigned by claiming respect for Second Amendment rights. Despite the NRA and others highlighting her record as a gun-control advocate, enough voters accepted the assurances. Once in office, Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed major restrictions, including bans on semi-automatic firearms. Just before the July 1, 2026, effective date, the NRA secured a statewide preliminary injunction in Santolla v. Katz, halting enforcement and protecting law-abiding Virginians’ rights under the state constitution.
This injunction is a victory, but the episode reminds us that promises on the campaign trail do not always match actions in office. We cannot assume safety in our own jurisdictions. Troubling pushes against our rights continue in places like New York City and Colorado. Anti-gun elements in the media often champion candidates who would erode constitutional protections if given the chance.
Elections have real consequences. In cities plagued by violence, some leaders blame responsible gun owners rather than enforcing laws against criminals they release onto the streets. Should an anti-Second Amendment majority control the Senate, the stakes rise higher: not only flawed legislation, but also judicial nominees who could undermine our rights for generations.
The Second Amendment is no historical footnote. It is a vital safeguard, rooted in the Founders’ wisdom that an armed citizenry secures a free state. History teaches the peril of disarmament. As your EVP and CEO, I am committed to the NRA’s mission: defending this right through legislation, education, training and unrelenting legal action.
To our members: Your support powers this fight. Whether through membership, range programs, hunter education or political engagement, you stand as the backbone of this organization. In 2026 and beyond, stay informed, stay involved and stay vigilant. Attend candidate forums. Back those who earn strong NRA-PVF ratings based on their records. Mentor young shooters. Champion responsible firearm ownership in your communities.
Freedom’s defense is perpetual. We cannot take it for granted or fail to pass it on to our children. As Reagan reminded us, each generation must fight for and defend it.
The NRA stands ready. With your continued strength and resolve, we will carry forward the legacy of 155 years of defending freedom. The possibilities for America are limitless when we remain true to our founding principles.
God bless you, God bless our service members, God bless America and God bless the NRA.
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