
In the last post, I detailed six veteran-owned breweries that can be found from Florida to Colorado. Today, I’m back with six more from Vermont to Georgia. We’ll start today off with a craft brewery founded by an active duty Marine:
Fidelis Beer Company: Northern Virginia and D.C.
Two out of three members of the Fidelis team are active duty service members. The owner and founder is a Marine who wanted to give back to his community through his business. Perhaps most unique about the brewery is its 1775 Ale, a tip of the hat to the Marine Corps’ Birthday. It is “inspired by and crafted as a throwback” to the Tun Tavern’s brew at the time of the Marine Corps’ founding. The proceeds of this particular beer are donated to the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund. (And yes, they ship the 1775 Ale—you can order it online.)
RJ Rockers: Spartanburg, South Carolina
There must be something in the water in Germany! (Just kidding, it’s beer!) Stationed in Germany, owner and brewer Mark Johnsen spent his time wisely—soaking in everything he could about beer brewing. What started out as a craft brewery has now transitioned to a microbewery that is powered by solar energy and supports environmentally friendly practices. Tours and tastings happen weekly.
Full Tilt Brewing: Baltimore, Maryland
Founded by two beer enthusiasts, one of whom is a Navy veteran, Full Tilt Brewing has its hometown pride at… well, full tilt. While most of their beers are named after locales in Charm City, Berger Cookie Chocolate Stout is actually named after the famous local desert. And the beer is actually brewed with it.
Service Brewing Co.: Savannah, Georgia
Jeff Hyatt, brewer, and Kevin Ryan, CEO, are veterans although from different branches. Still, they found commonality in what else? Beer. Interestingly, Service Brewing Co. also has a beekeeper and hives—and they use the honey in their recipes. Interested in visiting? The complex offers tours and has a tasting room.
Railhouse Brewery: Aberdeen, North Carolina
With more than 14 employees, business for Railhouse Brewery is booming. Started by a Navy veteran and Army veteran, the team also brags other veterans and at least one military brat. Their award-winning beers are available at their pub or from regional distributors.
14th Star Brewing Company: St. Albans, Vermont
The idea for 14th Star was born in Eastern Afghanistan where owner and head brewer, Steve Gagner, was deployed. No longer a dream, the brewery is growing. And of course, being located in Vermont, they have a Maple Breakfast Stout on tap.
Who did we miss? Let us know what your favorite veteran-owned businesses are in the comments!
***
Jo is the author of Jo, My Gosh! a blog about her journey as a newlywed military wife. When she’s not working from home, she’s writing, reading, trying new recipes, watching sports or cross stitching. Catch her on Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook and say hi!
[…] forget to check out the first installment of craft breweries from Florida […]
We opened in Huntington Beach, CA over 1 year ago in May 2015. Marine/Navy owned ( Father/Son). Beach City Brewery is alive and growing.
Hey Jo,
Check out Flying Tiger Brewery? I’m one of the owners and I am a Veteran.