The National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) announced on March 25 the passing of Chuck Norris, a well-known martial artist, actor, and supporter of American freedoms. Norris died at the age of 86. The NRA-ILA highlighted his contributions to both entertainment and advocacy, including his work with the organization’s Trigger the Vote campaign.
Norris was recognized not only for his roles in movies and television but also for his dedication to promoting traditional values and constitutional rights. His involvement with campaigns supporting voter participation among gun owners underscored his commitment to peaceful political action.
Born in Oklahoma in 1940, Norris served in the U.S. Air Force before becoming a martial arts competitor and instructor. He gained fame through tournament victories and later formed friendships with other martial artists such as Bruce Lee. Their collaboration led to Norris’s appearance in Lee’s film “Way of the Dragon,” which contributed to launching his own acting career.
Norris became widely known through films like “Missing in Action” and “The Delta Force,” as well as for playing Cordell Walker on CBS’s “Walker, Texas Ranger.” Beyond acting, he founded Kickstart Kids Foundation to promote healthy lifestyles among youth through martial arts instruction.
In recent years, Norris was introduced to younger audiences through internet memes celebrating his persona. Despite this humorous attention, he credited traditional values and Christian faith for his achievements.
According to the official website, Buckeye Firearms Association advocates for individuals’ rights to own firearms for self-defense, hunting, competition, and recreation. The organization focuses its efforts in Ohio according to its official website. It delivers alerts on laws affecting gun rights according to its official website and provides updates about legislation, training opportunities, and events related to firearms according to its official website. Buckeye Firearms Association is described as a grassroots group focused on firearm rights according to its official website, centering activities within Ohio according to its official website.
NRA-ILA extended condolences: “Chuck Norris not only portrayed, but embodied, the man most can only aspire to be. His legacy lives on and will continue to inspire the best of the American spirit.”
