Why we started Veterans Ball

In Phoenix, AZ, on Veterans Day, many businesses offer free meals to veterans. While these gestures are appreciated, we believe there is an opportunity to create an even more meaningful way to honor our veterans.

Veterans should be celebrated and respected for their service and dedication to our country. Our organization, Veterans Ball, was born from the desire to provide a platform for businesses to genuinely engage with and support the veteran community. We believe that by coming together, we can offer veterans a truly memorable and honorable experience.

As a former Army Infantryman, I was honored to attend several military balls. These events were filled with glitz and glamour, offering a rare opportunity to wear our uniforms adorned with medals, ribbons, stripes, and patches. The pride and motivation that came from dressing up and attending these balls were immense. Soldiers and their spouses or dates, dressed in elegant gowns and suits, looked fantastic on a night dedicated to honoring them. We listened to speeches from our hosts and guest speakers who shared stories of past wars, building camaraderie and instilling a deep sense of pride, duty, and motivation.

Since leaving the military, I have rarely had the opportunity to dress up, especially in my Army dress uniform. This is why I founded Veterans Ball. I want to create a Veterans Day ball in every major US city—a night to celebrate veterans for their incomparable dedication to this great country and to let them re-live that feeling of pride and honor.

For many veterans, attending the Veterans Ball would mean more than just a night out. It would be a chance to reconnect with the sense of camaraderie, pride, and honor they felt while serving. It’s an opportunity to be recognized and celebrated in a meaningful way, reminding them that their service and sacrifices are deeply appreciated.

Many wonderful charities provide essential support to veterans, often focusing on those who are disabled or suffering from PTSD and other traumas. These organizations play a crucial role in helping veterans heal and thrive. The unique aspect of Veterans Ball is the experience it offers: the joy of attending an event that builds camaraderie, motivates through guest speakers, and provides invaluable networking opportunities. This is not a handout; it’s a celebration of the veterans’ service and a benefit they have earned. The whole intent is to create an event that honors their commitment and fosters a sense of pride and belonging.

We invite every company that supports veterans to join us in raising funds for these events, making Veterans Ball an annual celebration on November 11th. Our vision is for Veterans Ball to become the 'Oscars' of the veteran community, an event so significant that it is televised and presented to the civilian population. Companies and other entities can donate to receive sponsorship opportunities, such as their logos displayed on a 'Red Carpet' affair. Additionally, larger companies can donate $10,000 for a table reservation, allowing them to send their veteran employees to this incredible gala.

Join us in honoring our veterans and making a real difference for our community. Together, we can create a night of celebration, pride, and lasting impact.

Executive Director

Brandon M. Winkel