Women for Gun Rights Announces Inaugural 2026 Award Recipients at National Summit Gala

Four distinguished honorees were recognized for outstanding contributions to Second Amendment advocacy, leadership and service.

by posted on October 21, 2026
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Women for Gun Rights (WGR) proudly announces the recipients of its inaugural annual awards, presented during the organization's 2026 National Summit Gala on September 12 in Washington, D.C.

The awards recognize individuals and businesses whose extraordinary dedication, leadership, and advocacy exemplify the mission of Women for Gun Rights. From grassroots volunteers and business partners to elected officials and courageous survivors, each honoree represents a unique and important contribution to the preservation of Second Amendment freedoms.

2026 Volunteer of the Year — Susan Myers
The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes a WGR volunteer whose exceptional dedication, initiative, and service go above and beyond in advancing the organization's mission.

Susan Myers, WGR's Missouri State Director, was honored for her outstanding commitment to advocacy, education, and grassroots engagement. Her tireless efforts demonstrate the tremendous impact that dedicated volunteers have in strengthening the organization and expanding its reach.

2026 2A Business of the Year — Patriot Mobile
The 2A Business of the Year Award recognizes a business that demonstrates an exceptional commitment to supporting the Second Amendment and the mission of Women for Gun Rights.

Patriot Mobile was selected for its steadfast support of constitutional freedoms and its partnership with organizations working to preserve the right to keep and bear arms. Through its commitment to Second Amendment advocacy and continued support of WGR, Patriot Mobile demonstrates the important role businesses can play in defending America's constitutional rights.

2026 2A Legislator of the Year — Congresswoman Kat Cammack
The 2A Legislator of the Year Award honors a federal legislator who demonstrates outstanding leadership in defending the Second Amendment and supporting the mission of Women for Gun Rights.

U.S. Representative Kat Cammack of Florida was recognized for her commitment to protecting constitutional freedoms and her support of Second Amendment advocacy. Her leadership reflects the importance of strong voices in Congress who recognize and defend the fundamental right of law-abiding Americans to keep and bear arms.

2026 Shirley Waltral Memorial Survivor Award — Mary Forgues
The Shirley Waltral Memorial Survivor Award honors a woman who has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for advocacy, education, or support for fellow survivors.

Presented in memory of Shirley Waltral, this deeply meaningful award recognizes the extraordinary courage and resilience of women who choose to use their experiences to make a difference in the lives of others.

Mary Forgues was selected as the inaugural recipient in recognition of her remarkable journey from survivor to advocate.

In 2019, Forgues survived a terrifying home invasion when an intruder pursued her upstairs, forced his way through a locked bedroom door, and violently attacked her. As he attempted to strangle her, Forgues feared not only for her own life but also for the safety of her daughter, who could return home at any moment. Determined to protect them both, she fought her way to a nightstand, retrieved her handgun, and confronted her attacker, bringing the assault to an end.

The experience profoundly strengthened her commitment to personal safety, self-defense, and the right of individuals to protect themselves and their families. Forgues channeled that commitment into action, ultimately pursuing a career in law enforcement and becoming a police officer.

Her willingness to share her deeply personal experience has helped put a human face on the national conversation surrounding firearms and self-defense, reminding others that behind the policy debates are real women whose lives have been forever changed.

Forgues embodies the purpose of the Shirley Waltral Memorial Survivor Award: honoring women who transform tragedy into strength, advocacy, and hope for others.

The presentation of these inaugural awards marks the beginning of a new tradition for Women for Gun Rights, celebrating the individuals and organizations whose actions make a lasting difference in the fight to preserve constitutional freedoms.

"These awards are about recognizing the people who turn their convictions into action," said Dianna Muller, founder of Women for Gun Rights. "Whether through volunteer service, business leadership, legislative advocacy, or the courage to help others after personal tragedy, each of our honorees represents the strength and determination that move our mission forward."

Women for Gun Rights congratulates each of its 2026 award recipients and extends its sincere gratitude for their commitment, leadership, and service.

About Women for Gun Rights
Women for Gun Rights is a nationwide, nonpartisan organization of women dedicated to safeguarding the Second Amendment. WGR believes education, not legislation, is the key to firearm safety and violence prevention. Through education, advocacy, and grassroots engagement, WGR works to preserve America's gun culture, protect constitutional freedoms, and amplify the voices of women who believe gun rights are women's rights.
For more information, visit WomenForGunRights.org.

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