2008 Marion P. Hammer Women Of Distinction Award Winner

NRA honors Patricia Stoneking of Bonner Springs, Kansas

The National Rifle Association has selected Patricia Stoneking of Bonner Springs, Kansas, to receive the 2008 Marion P. Hammer Woman of Distinction Award. This award recognizes exceptional contributions to the preservation of the Second Amendment and the shooting sports through education, advocacy, volunteerism, and legislative activism in support of the goals of the NRA.

Stoneking led a grassroots effort to pass a statewide concealed carry law, Kansas SB 418, She testified before the Kansas House of Representatives and circulated a petition signed by thousands of law-abiding citizens. An NRA Life Member and NRA Certified Instructor in multiple disciplines, Stoneking is the owner of Target Master Shooting Academy in Bonner Springs.

"This year's applicants were up against a prestigious group of women," Hammer said. "The winners' dedication to the cause of Freedom sets an example for all to follow. Their grassroots involvement and the progress they have made in their communities should make us all proud of their leadership and gives us all hope for the future of Freedom and the Second Amendment."

Stoneking serves on the board of directors of both the Kansas State Rifle Association and the Kansas Second Amendment Society. She also serves as head instructor at The Bullet Hole Shooting Range in Overland Park and as Legislative Liaison on the Board of Directors of the Tri-County Rod and Gun Club.

"I recently completed my NRA instructor training for handguns under Stoneking's watchful eye," Barbara Baird said in her letter nominating Stoneking for this prestigious award. "She is steadfast, unfailing, and totally professional in her demeanor and her loyalty to the NRA."