Charles Cotton Elected President as NRA Celebrates 150-Year Anniversary

by
posted on October 5, 2021
** 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. **
nra-logo.jpg

National Rifle Association Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Wayne LaPierre was re-elected by the NRA Board of Directors at their Monday, October 4 meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Annual Meeting of Members preceded the board meeting, as the NRA celebrated its 150-year anniversary.

Charles Cotton was elected NRA President; Lt. Col. Willes K. Lee (ret.) First Vice President; and David Coy Second Vice President. 

“It is the honor of a lifetime for a guy who grew up hunting and plinking to become president of this 150-year-old organization—and serve our five million members in their fight for the Second Amendment,” says NRA President Charles Cotton. “The proceedings in Charlotte were an amazing celebration of NRA fellowship and freedom. Under the direction of Wayne LaPierre, the NRA is strong and secure—well-positioned to chart its course for the future.” 

Also retaining their offices are NRA Secretary and General Counsel John Frazer and NRA Treasurer Sonya B. Rowling, Jason Ouimet was re-appointed as Executive Director for the Institute for Legislative Action and Joseph De Bergalis, Jr., Executive Director, General Operations.​ 

“The NRA is focused and energized—standing tall in the face of unprecedented attacks on our Association and constitutional freedoms,” says Wayne LaPierre. “I am honored by the trust placed in me by the NRA Board of Directors and the millions of patriots they represent. Together, we will continue to confront our adversaries, and fight for our freedoms and values. We are resolute in our mission as America’s greatest defender of constitutional freedom.”

Learn more at NRA.org.

Latest

RXM EHG Magpul 2
RXM EHG Magpul 2

New: Magpul RXM Full-Sized Enhanced Handgun Grip

A new full-size grip module expands the RXM’s modularity, turning Ruger’s compact 9 mm into a more confident duty or competition companion.

USA Clay Target League Shatters Records With More Than 55,000 Student-Athletes in 2025

USA Clay Target League announces 55,832 student-athletes participated in its programs in 2025, marking a 31st straight record-breaking season.

Glock’s New Gen6 Handgun Lineup Redefines Familiar Territory

Glock’s new Gen6 pistols bring refined ergonomics, deeper slide serrations, a flat-faced trigger and a redesigned optic-ready system to the G17, G19 and G45.

New: Beretta 92X Performance Carry Optic Dark Series

Beretta’s 92X Performance Carry Optic Dark Series updates a competition favorite with fresh colors, optics support and refined match-grade upgrades.

Competitors’ Corner: December 2025

Shooting Sports USA ends its monthly digital magazine; in-depth gear reviews, expert features and match coverage continue online and via newsletter.

Marksmen and Milestones: The National Matches 1930–1939

The National Matches in the 1930s elevated marksmanship, blending military, police and civilian prowess to shape America’s pre-World War II shooting legacy.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.