Today we’d like to introduce you to Jay Harris.
Hi Jay, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello. My name is Jay Harris I am a retired US Army Infantry Captain. I served for 25yrs in the US Army, my qualifications include US Army Ranger, Air Borne, Air Assault, Pathfinder, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, Firearms Instructor, and Drill Instructor. My decorations include the US Army Bronze Star medal with V device for Honor and bravery during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan, Meritorious Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, seven Army Accommodation Medals, seven Army Achievement Medals, and the Global War on Terrorism medal. My Deployments include serval tours to Iraq and Afghanistan and others across the world. I am married to Phylicia T Harris, we have five beautiful children Jasmin, Jordan, James, Trevion, and Kam. In November 2020 I retired from Ft. Jackson SC where I served as a Company Commander for Charlie Company 2nd Battalion 13th Infantry. Prior to my retirement, I begin to get my civilian certifications as an NRA Firearms Instructor and a South Carolina Concealed Carry Instructor as well as my Federal Firearms License and Special Tax Stamp. I knew once I retired, I wanted to start my own business in the firearm industry. My father started me in shooting when I was six years old, and I have loved shooting ever since. I wanted to start a Firearms Training and Sales company so I can continue to protect and serve my community by providing them the tools and knowledge to better prepare them to protect themselves and their families. My wife and I decided to start the business in January 2020. I started conducting my firearms class at Panteao Sportmans Club in Swansea SC. After years of setting up my classroom under a tent and using picnic tables for my students to sit at during class, I wanted to open up our own facility that had a fully operation classroom and a showroom for us to sale firearms and accessories. In November 2020 when I retired my wife, my good friend Sidi London and I begin building up our storefront and classroom located in West Columbia. After three months of building up our store, we opened in February 2021. We currently have seven firearm instructors that work for our company who are all either active duty or retire Army veterans to include my wife SFC Phylicia T. Harris who is still serving on active duty. Our company has been fully operation for two years. Our services include the SC Concealed Weapons Course, Basic Pistol Course, Youth Intro to Firearms Course, Female Shooting Clinic, Long Range shooting Course, Combat Pistol and Rifle Course, and a Defensive Handgun course. In the last two years we have taught over 800 students in South Carolina. We also sell a wide range of products to include pistols, rifles shotgun, and accessories. We have several major distributors, and we are currently direct dealers for twelve different manufactures which gives us the ability to sell over 45 thousand products in our store and on our website. Having my own company has always been a lifelong dream I feel truly bless to have this opportunity.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Nothing worth having is ever easy. We have defiantly had our ups and downs. There is a great deal of detail that goes into running and operating a business. From finding a business location to supplying quality service and products to our customers and clients there is always hard work involved. My wife and I have a firm belief in the bible verse Matthew 17:20 “Faith in Mustard seed”. We believe no matter how hard the task if we keep our faith and focus, we can accomplish anything we set out to do.
As you know, we’re big fans of Champion Defense LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Champion Defense was founded by active-duty veterans Jay and Phylicia Harris. With over thirty years of Military service and firearm training experience, our goal is to provide the best firearm training and knowledge available to our students. Our NRA Certified Instructors are trained in multiple firearm disciplines to reach the needs of every student.
At Champion Defense, we’re committed to providing the highest quality education focused on leadership, safety, innovation, and advanced skills. Our programs are flexible, and our instructors are the best in their field. So, if you’re in need of improving your firearm skills or wanting to obtain your South Carolina Concealed weapons permit. look no further get in touch with us today for all your firearm needs from purchasing a firearm to getting the proper training contact us and become a part of the Champion Defense Family.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
The sense of community. I would like to see more help for the citizen in need. The recent pandemic has cost a lot of people their jobs and even their homes.
Pricing:
- SC CWP Course $90
- Basic Pistol Course $150
- Youth Intro to Firearms $50
- Defensive Handgun Course $200
- Combat Pistol and Rifle Course $300
Contact Info:
- Email: championdefensellc@gmail.com
- Website: www.championdefensellc.com
- Instagram: @champion_defense_llc
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/Champion-Defense-LLC
- Youtube: champion Defense LLC
