When asked if this was their first Armed Women National Conference, a surprising number of hands flew up. And over 35% of registrants were Chapter Members (previous years were for Leaders). This is a great representation of the still growing number of women taking self-protection into their own hands and the Armed Women of America delivered a first-class experience for all levels in Branson, Missouri.
Some arrived as early as Thursday for a Demo Range, Add-on Courses and the Welcome Mixer sponsored by Ruger, but the main event began Friday with red shirts. Former US Blackhawk Pilot, Elizabeth McCormick, kicked off the keynotes with some helicopter humor and then teams were formed and Operation: G.I. Gratitude was in effect! Table team challenges earned snacks, hygiene items and practical gifts to fill care packages for US soldiers and veterans overseas. Hosted by energetic, Matt May, the boxes were stacked into a flag and given to Kelly Brownfield and USO Service Canine, Apache, from Fort Leonard Wood.
Friday afternoon offered more course opportunities and the AWA EXPO, where over thirty sponsors and vendors showcased product, swapped stories and shared swag. Saturday was all day AWA EXPO and a general session filled with inspirational morning keynotes like Terry Vaughan’s staying calm in crisis, Cheryl Todd’s 2A advocacy and Lena Miculek’s confronting fears head-on. The afternoon hosted a carefully curated lineup of Breakout Sessions and then attendees gathered in purple for the evening banquet.
Sponsored by CrossBreed Holsters, Saturday night was truly a celebration. Partners like Gun Tote’n Mamas and Walther were recognized for over a decade of support, Chapters and Leaders were recognized for ten years of attendance, guest speakers like angler Rebecca Lentz shared personal stories and the sponsor prizes exceeded expectations. They rolled out a collaboration with Glitter Gunz and GLOCK and wrapped the night up with the annual Purple Parade. It was a great evening of food, fellowship, firearms and fun. Sunday brought an Industry Panel, final Breakout Sessions, closing remarks and a few Add-on Courses before parting ways.
To sum up the weekend, new member Arielle Thibodeaux, “I just joined my local AWA chapter a few months ago. I decided to attend their annual conference in Branson, MO and I am SO GLAD I did. It was amazing connecting with like minded women and learning more about personal self protection during the breakouts. I felt like the whole premise was about never being a victim again and I loved the message. I learned a lot in the breakouts and the instructors were so passionate about their messages. I met some wonderful wiser women, from my state, who took me in as one of their own. I can’t wait to shoot with them. My husband and I also went to Bass Pro Shops Shooting Academy and took a shotgun class. It was my first shotgun experience and I LOVED it. I got to meet Lena Miculek who absolutely helped me to find a passion in shooting and connect to my husband with this hobby. She also gave an awesome speech and was so kind in person. Rebecca Lentz was also so funny and gave her kick 🍑 story about her carrying journey… Female shooters, get connected to a women’s group. It’s so worth it! I feel so energized.”
The Armed Women of America continue to be one of the largest women’s firearm education organizations and exists to enable women to be their own self-protectors, creating freedom, peace of mind, and confidence in themselves. Their vision is that women have the skills, mindset, and training to defend themselves and those in their care. Chapters across the country offer a welcoming, non-intimidating place for women to learn more about the safe and responsible use of firearms, including firearms safety, personal protection, concealed carry, mindset and so much more. The meetings offer classroom and range time, all under the guidance of certified women instructors who volunteer their time. Armed Women of America provides a safe and comfortable environment for women to gather, learn, train, and discuss issues important to women gun owners. If you aren’t a member, please consider joining the incredible group of women at armedwomen.org.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
