Happy Memorial Day: A Salute to Horse Solider Bourbon

As we celebrate Memorial Day, I thought it would be appropriate to salute a bourbon that was inspired by the heroics of 12 U.S. Army green berets who answered the call to duty after 9/11. Their bravery earned them the title “Horse Soldiers” because they made their insertion into northern Afghanistan on horseback on a mission code-named Task Force Dagger where they battled the Taliban. In fact, you’’ll find the Horse Soldier statute at Liberty Park near the 9/11 Memorial in New York City.

While their story would be portrayed in the 2018 movie entitled, “12 Strong”, Task Force Digger would also inspire the creation of an award-winning bourbon. Nearly 20 years after fighting in Afganhistan, Scott Neil, Rob Schaefer, Mark Nutsch, Bob Pennington, Tyler Garner and John Koko would make their way to Kentucky with American Freedom Distillery. The distillery now have three distinct Horse Solider bourbons: Straight Bourbon, Small Batch Bourbon and Barrel Strength Bourbon. You’ll also find some limited annual editions such as the high-end Commander’s Select.

Since distilling its first bottle, Horse Solider Bourbon has garnered more than 30 awards including three coveted Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition. The company recently broke ground on a $200 million tourism distillery development known as Horse Solider Farms in Somerset, Kentucky. The venue will include a nearly 28,000 square foot distillery visitor center, an amphitheater, adventure center, wedding chapel, luxury lodge with cabins and a retail village.

The Horse Solider story is even more inspirational knowing that the American Freedom Distillery team has been involved in every major conflict since the Vietnam War. Every bottle is an example of the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving our country.

With that in mind, let’s take a moment to thank all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. I’ll pour some Horse Solider in a glass in their honor.

Happy Memorial Day!