For Thomas Wilder and Neil McCanon, it’s simple: they love beer. After the duo returned home from the Iraq War, they decided to take that love to the next level and start Young Veterans Brewing Co.
In 2005, the veterans returned home from war and tried finding jobs but both knew that they ultimately wanted to work for themselves. The first time the high school friends tried home brewing, they barely knew a thing about the craft beer world. To perfect their recipes and technique, the two invited friends and family to house parties to taste their brew. And now they’re brewing experts.
Young Veterans opened this month in the military town of Hampton Roads, VA. The first releases from the brewery nod to their time overseas: Jet Noise Double IPA and Pineapple Grenade Hefeweizen. Others include Big Red Eye Pale Ale, Semper FI.P.A, New Recruit Ale and Night Vision Stout. The names alone have us pumped to try them.
Not only are Wilder and McCanon creating great beer but they’re also doing it for a great cause. After making a name for themselves, the pair hopes to hire vets and donate to military charities. No word yet on distribution so you’ll have to take a trip down to VA to try the beer. With a motto like “Brewing With The Freedom We Fought For,” Young Veterans Brewing Co. is on our must try list.