This past weekend, four members of the Hillsdale College action shooting team traveled to Gryphon Group Security Solutions in Maxton, North Carolina to be a part of the Memorial Valor Foundation's eighth annual Memorial 3 Gun competition.

One team member, U.S. Army veteran Joseph Grohs, went to compete in the event, held every year in honor of 10 selected former U.S. military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. Each of the 10 contested stages are named after one of the fallen heroes being honored. In addition, team members Jianna Coppola, William Grohs and Kathryn Madden also attended the event as volunteers.

"It was so wonderful and sobering to help out with the Memorial 3 Gun match over fall break," Coppola said. "The foundation ensures that men who have died for our country are recognized for their valour and sacrifice -- the foundation especially recognizes special operators who have died in combat, which is a unique mission because the public doesn't often learn about special operators' sacrifices.
 
"During the event, the team sold merchandise to raise money for the foundation, talked with competitors and leading vendors in the gun industry, and offered children's face-painting. We also had the opportunity to support our teammate Joseph Grohs, who is a veteran and ambassador for the foundation, as he competed in the match."

The event plays out over three days, bringing together many of the country's best competitive shooters, especially those with military backgrounds. The event culminates on Sunday night with the Gold Star Ceremony held in honor of the 10 fallen heroes being recognized in 2025 and their families.

"It was an honor to be a part of a noble cause like the MVF, even if it was in a small capacity," William Grohs said. "It is an excellent foundation run by great people for a great cause. I had a very positive experience and hope to make the trip again next year."

The match not only showcased a high level of competition, but, as mentioned above, inspired the members of the Chargers team present.

"I had a lot of fun at this Memorial 3Gun match - it was great to spend time with the teammates who went down, as well as to see what this charity does in person," Madden said. "Not only was it a fun experience, but it also showed a community that cares deeply for one another. It was an excellent opportunity to gather together and honor the Gold Star heroes and their families."

For more information on the Memorial Valor Foundation, please visit http://memorialvalor.com

The Action Shooting team is competing over the next four days down in Georgia in the Georgia State Championship, one of the biggest events of the fall for the Chargers. Action runs from today, Oct. 15 to Oct. 19.