The Salem County Sportsmen’s Club hosted its third annual NRA Day on May 21, 2005, with the support of the NRA and the South Jersey Sportsmen, Inc.

Two hundred and six new shooters registered for the firearms safety course. After a safety briefing they were able to participate in all shooting events, which consisted of air guns, trap, skeet, handguns, rifles, and black powder. Everyone was welcome to choose which discipline then would like to try. The response was enthusiastic. Just after noon, one of the black powder instructors had to leave to pick up more black powder because the shooters had used up all that was available. All shooting was one on one with NRA-certified instructors.

There was a display of the “Firearms of American Freedom” thanks to the South Jersey Arms Collectors. Visitors could take a close look at everything from the Brown Bess and Kentucky Flint locks to the M-1 and the M-14 representing tools of American veterans.

The NRA booth provided handouts on firearm safety and NRA programs from Eddie Eagle to Women on Target. Rebecca Williams of the NRA-ILA Grassroots Division was on hand to answer questions. The Salem County Sheriff's Department was there to pass out free gunlocks. There was a taxidermy exhibit, US Army WWI Horse Calvary equipment on display and a collection of target handguns provided by the Delaware State Pistol Club.

The purpose of NRA Day is to showcase to the public the programs of the NRA and to show the safe and sporting use of firearms. NRA Days are free of charge to anyone participating and provide an enjoyable day out for the family.

We wish to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who volunteered and to the businesses that that donated items to make this NRA Day a great success.

Robert L. Viden

ANJRPC Regional Vice President