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President Barack Obama has proclaimed September 22 to be National Hunting and Fishing Day. In declaring his support of the American traditions of hunting and fishing, the president expressed his support both for those traditions and for the values they instill and sustain in the American character.

"On National Hunting and Fishing Day, we celebrate their contributions to our natural environment and our national heritage." - President Barack Obama

Said the president:

"Since our Nation's founding, hunters and anglers have cherished these unparalleled natural gifts and marveled at their untamed beauty. National Hunting and Fishing Day recognizes the contributions of millions of Americans who continue to engage in these ageless pursuits.

Following in the centuries-old footsteps of the pioneers who walked before them, hunters and anglers have played a key role in the conservation and restoration of numerous species and their natural habitats. They not only understand their pivotal role as stewards of the land, but also seek to pass on this honored tradition to future generations . . . If not for America's great hunters and anglers, like President Theodore Roosevelt and Aldo Leopold, our Nation would not enjoy sound game management; a system of ethical, science-based game laws; and an extensive public lands estate on which to pursue the sports. On
National Hunting and Fishing Day, we celebrate their contributions to our natural environment and our national heritage."

(The president's full remarks in support of hunters and anglers can be read in full on the White House website.)

Conservation, stewardship of the land, self-reliance and strength of character are values AHSA also believes are integral to our gun-owning traditions. We are proud to share these values with our president and to support his efforts to preserve our national heritage, our gun rights and the lands we love.