Henry Repeating Arms's press release reports that founder Anthony Imperato honored four Texans during a Friday evening on-stage presentation at the National Friends of NRA Event in Houston. The recognition included the first public acknowledgment of three Austin Police Department officers who stopped the perpetrator of a recent mass shooting in the city's crowded entertainment district.
What Was Announced
Henry presented Law Enforcement Tribute Edition rifles to the three Austin officers, who were honored together on stage. The company is not naming them in print, citing privacy and security concerns while investigations remain open. Juan Lopez also received a Texas Tribute Edition rifle for his life-saving actions during a shooting at a school event in Pasadena, Texas. The release notes that Lopez later received the Carnegie Medal, one of North America's highest civilian honors.
Key Details
- Event: National Friends of NRA Event, Houston, Texas
- Recognized: Three Austin Police Department officers and Juan Lopez
- Rifles presented: Henry Law Enforcement Tribute Edition (officers) and Henry Texas Tribute Edition (Lopez)
- Attendance: Nearly 1,000 people
- Fundraising: Henry donated its last remaining Spirit of '76 Semisesquintennial Edition rifle, which raised $10,000 for Friends of NRA
What It Means for Gun Owners
The event puts a spotlight on the Austin officers' response and on Lopez's actions in Pasadena, both of which the company framed as examples of courage under pressure. For readers following Henry's limited editions, the release also shows that the Spirit of '76 rifle went to the Friends of NRA auction, and that the company's last unit of that model is now gone.
Bottom Line
Henry used a Friends of NRA stage to recognize public servants and a civilian hero, and the rifle donation raised $10,000 for the shooting sports organization. The officers' names remain unpublished for now.
