The National Rifle Association of America’s current president, Pete Brownell, decided he would not run for a second term as president of the organization, and on Monday, the NRA Board of Directors decided who will be Brownell’s successor: Lt. Col. Oliver North.

In a press release, North stated, “I am honored to have been selected by the NRA Board to soon serve as this great organization’s President. I appreciate the board initiating a process that affords me a few weeks to set my affairs in order, and I am eager to hit the ground running as the new NRA President.”

The NRA’s Wayne LaPierre had high praise for North as well:

“This is the most exciting news for our members since Charlton Heston became President of our Association,” said NRA Executive Vice President and CEO Wayne LaPierre.  “Oliver North is a legendary warrior for American freedom, a gifted communicator and skilled leader.  In these times, I can think of no one better suited to serve as our President.”

…

LaPierre congratulated the NRA Board for its action.  “The board acted quickly and with great vision,” LaPierre said.  “Oliver North is, hands down, the absolute best choice to lead our NRA Board, to fully engage with our members, and to unflinchingly stand and fight for the great freedoms he has defended his entire life.”

“Oliver North is a true hero and warrior for freedom,” LaPierre said, “and NRA members are proud to stand with him.”

According to Fox News, North will be “retiring” from his role at the network “immediately.”

Twitter also reacted to the news.

Thrilled about the Oliver North news. A total warrior for freedom, this is the last person that anti-gun advocates would want as the new President of the NRA board.

— Dana Loesch (@DLoesch) May 7, 2018

Can we get a HELL YEAH?! Oliver North to become next NRA President (cue snowflakes melting) https://t.co/8u26v6sfBZ

— Twitchy Team (@TwitchyTeam) May 7, 2018

Just in: Lt. Col. Oliver North has been named the new president of the National Rifle Association. A great American!

— toddstarnes (@toddstarnes) May 7, 2018

Congratulations, Lt. Col. North, on your new role at the NRA.