The NRA Foundation National Banquet and Auction was a memorable evening marked by generosity, fellowship, and a shared commitment to a meaningful cause. Hosted at the Georgia World Congress Center, Thomas Murphy Ballroom in Atlanta, GA, the event gathered a vibrant and diverse community of supporters, donors, and advocates; each united by a passion for preserving and advancing the future of the shooting sports.
The Foundation dinner had many special guests in attendance including NRA Executive Vice President & CEO Doug Hamlin, former NRA President Bob Barr, recently elected NRA President Bill Bachenberg, and a multitude of NRA Board Members, NRA Ring of Freedom Members, and industry partners.
Guests enjoyed an action-packed evening filled with raffles, games, and a silent auction featuring an impressive selection of items. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on everything from exotic hunts and fine jewelry to home décor and firearms—generously donated by businesses and supporters from across the country. All proceeds from the event benefited The NRA Foundation.
The evening began on a patriotic note with the National Anthem, performed by renowned fiddler Jimmy Herman, best known for touring with Carrie Underwood. The audience was both captivated and inspired as many joined in singing along with the stirring performance. As guests enjoyed dinner, Friends of NRA honored standout achievements by presenting the Friends of NRA Regional Volunteer of the Year and Committee of the Year awards. This moving tribute celebrated four exceptional volunteers whose dedication to the Friends of NRA program is unparalleled, along with the program’s highest netting committee.
NRA Executive Vice President & CEO Doug Hamlin delivered an inspiring keynote address, emphasizing the vital role The NRA Foundation plays in protecting our freedoms and preserving the future of the Second Amendment. He was followed by Andrew Wickstrom, President of Henry Repeating Arms, who took the stage to honor Medal of Honor recipient and Georgia native Maj. Gen. James Livingston, USMC (Ret.), with a powerful tribute. In recognition of his decades of service, Wickstrom presented General Livingston with the Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary Tribute Edition rifle; a one-of-a-kind firearm featuring intricate engravings that honor two and a half centuries of Marine Corps history.
The emotional resonance of the evening continued as retired U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer and motivational speaker Vann Morris delivered a powerful rendition of Old Glory, a tribute to the American flag, stirring deep emotion and reflection throughout the audience.
Throughout the night, attendees were inspired by powerful remarks from prominent advocates of freedom, including Mark “Oz” Geist, American hero and bestselling co-author of 13 Hours, whose courage helped save over 25 lives during the Benghazi attacks, and Eva Shockey, entrepreneur and founder of Eva & Co., a lifestyle brand featuring home décor, jewelry, and more.
These unforgettable presentations reinforced the importance of defending our Second Amendment rights and supporting programs that promote safe, responsible firearms ownership- motivating guests to give generously and stand proudly in support of the cause.
There was great energy in the room as attendees prepared for the start of the live auction, which featured something for everyone: from guided hunt excursions, to one-of-a-kind firearms, instruments signed by famous musicians, jewelry, and even a John Adams Framed Portrait with Original Signature & Certificate of Authenticity. The highest bid item was the Smith & Wesson Collector’s 1854 Rifle and Model 29 Revolver Set (32 of 100) which came fully donated from Smith & Wesson.
The 2025 NRA Foundation Banquet and Auction was a resounding success, raising significant funds and awareness for future of shooting sports. Thanks to the generosity and support of attendees, sponsors, and volunteers, the event made a meaningful impact. A special thank you to Henry Repeating Arms as the Premier Event Sponsor, and to Guns.com, Kimber, and Taurus for being Contributing Sponsors. As the evening came to a close, guests left inspired and empowered, knowing that their contributions to The NRA Foundation provide essential shooting program resources, ensuring the availability of quality training, materials, and educational opportunities nationwide!
We invite you to join us at the NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits in Houston, TX, April 17–19, 2026—we hope you’ll make plans to attend, and we look forward to seeing you there!
