Fairfax, Virginia - Sergeant Sherri Jo Gallagher, the 2010 U.S. Army Soldier of the Year and a member of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, stopped by NRA Headquarters last week to meet with new NRA President David Keene. Some might think that being an NRA National High Power and Long Range High Power champion gave Gallagher a leg up in the competition, but that's only partially true.

"Marksmanship is only a small portion of the competition," said Gallagher. "We were also tested on battle operations, urban orienteering, tending wounded Soldiers on the battlefield simulations as well as a numerous amount of written tests. It was an unbelievable challenge."

In recognition of her achievements, the President Keene (along with NRA Competitive Shooting Director Mike Krei) presented Gallagher with a plaque which read:

For Commitment and Dedication to Excellence
Presented To
Sgt. Sherri Gallagher, USA
From the staff and members of the National Rifle Association of America for your outstanding
shooting achievements, inspiration to the shooting community, and as your selection as the
U.S. Army Best Warrior
"Soldier of the Year 2010"

After the ceremony, Gallagher was provided with a tour of NRA Headquarters that included a visit to the National Firearms Museum, NRA Publications and the NRA Headquarters Range.

Sgt. Gallagher inspecting a U.S. Richardson and Overman Gallager Percussion Carbine in the National Firearms Museum lab.

Sgt. Gallagher posing with the 1860 Gallager Percussion Carbine in the National Firearms Museum's Age of Elegance gallery.