During the prestigious Ring of Freedom Welcome Reception at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, Dott. Franco Gussalli Beretta, President and CEO of Fabbrica d'srmi Pietro Beretta, was presented with the 2026 NRA Defender of Freedom Award, one of the National Rifle Association's highest honors.

The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to preserving the fundamental freedoms upon which the United States was built. Dott. Franco Gussalli Beretta was honored for his steadfast leadership, deep-rooted support of the Second Amendment, and continued investment in the American shooting sports and hunting community.

"On behalf of the Beretta family and our global team, I am deeply honored to receive this recognition," said Dott. Franco Gussalli Beretta. "For five centuries, Beretta has stood for responsibility, heritage, and the defense of personal freedom. Our commitment to the United States and to the values it represents remains stronger than ever."

Under the leadership of Dott. Franco Gussalli Beretta and his brother, Dott. Pietro Gussalli Beretta, Beretta has continued to strengthen its presence in the United States, building upon the work initiated by their father, Cav. Ugo Gussalli Beretta. Through support of conservation efforts, competitive shooting, and education initiatives, the company remains committed to promoting safe and responsible firearm ownership. This recognition further underscores the enduring relationship between Beretta and the NRA; a partnership rooted in shared values and a long-standing dedication to safeguarding freedom for future generations.

"As Beretta marks 500 years of uninterrupted family history, this recognition is especially meaningful, said Dott. Franco Gussalli Beretta. "This award belongs to every craftsman in Italy, every employee in the United States, and every generation of my family who carried this legacy forward. This is an honor we will carry with great pride and pass forward.

Beretta's 500th anniversary will be celebrated throughout 2026 with special product releases, storytelling initiatives, and events honoring the brand's heritage and its forward-looking vision. To stay up to date on anniversary news and special releases, visit beretta500.com.

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About Beretta

Established in 1526, Beretta is the world's longest-standing industrial dynasty, with a legacy spanning 16 generations of continuous family ownership. For 500 years, firearms bearing the Beretta name have been trusted and used around the world. Beretta USA Corp. was established in 1977 and quickly became the provider of the most widely deployed sidearm in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, Beretta USA is part of Beretta Holding Group, which includes over 50 global subsidiaries and 20 renowned brands. Beretta manufactures, distributes, and markets a complete range of firearms, accessories, and apparel. The company also owns and operates six Beretta Gallery retail stores worldwide.

For more information, visit www.Beretta.com.