717 Armory, Harrisburg PA

717 Armory Founder and CEO, Patrick Connaghan, was born and raised in Harrisburg, PA, only 1.5 miles from the 717 Armory facility. Patrick graduated from Bishop McDevitt High School in 2004. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in January 2006, where he proudly served our country for 5 years. 

During his active military time, Patrick served in the infantry and did 3 combat deployments including Iraq (2) and Afghanistan. Patrick was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a Combat V for Valor, and the Navy Commendation Medal. In December 2010, he was honorably discharged as Sergeant.

After his time in the Marine Corps, Patrick was a Private Security Contractor for the Department of State for nearly 3 years. He was responsible for maintaining all training compliances per the contract and oversaw team standard operating procedures. After deciding to remain stateside, Patrick was hired by a global defense company as a range development specialist. He traveled throughout the continental United States as well as overseas, designing and building live-fire training ranges and solutions.
717 Armory is a creation of Patrick’s military background and range development experience. Under his leadership, Patrick strives to provide individuals in the greater Harrisburg area the opportunity to learn how to use firearm and archery equipment in a safe environment, shoot in a premier facility, and use repetition to become experienced and confident handlers.
In addition to his many duties as CEO, Patrick enjoys spending time with his dog Pate. Pate is named after Patrick’s mentor and best friend, Gunnery Sergeant EJ Pate, who died in the line of duty in June 2011. Patrick also enjoys hunting and golf and is an active member of Weekends with Warriors, a group dedicated to helping combat veterans.