TOWN OF POUGHKEEPSIE – The Veterans Sportsmens Association (VSA) sponsored a bourbon tasting on Saturday at the VFW Post 170 Saturday to raise funds for activities for veterans. The event drew more than 200 people.
The “Whiskey, Bourbon, and BBQ” event featured more than 16 veteran and locally owned distilleries and food was catered by Tavern 23 in Poughkeepsie. There was live music and raffles for patrons to enjoy.
VSA President Todd Dillon said the organization is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans and their families when they encounter issues. The organization also hosts firearms training and a variety of recreational events for veterans including rafting and camping trips.
Tyler Neil, a member of the US Army, was tending the booth for Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey. The distillery is the vision of US Army Green Berets that were inserted into Afghanistan, on horseback, days after the 9/11 attacks on America. Tyler Neil’s father Scott was one of those Green Berets, known as the “Horse Soldiers”. The soldier was promoting the spirits crafted by his father. “I get to serve my country and be a part of a special distillery,” said the younger Neil as he offered samplings to the paying guests. “The Horse Soldier glass bottle is molded by steel recovered from the World Trade Center to commemorate the lives lost and never forgotten.”
Dutchess County Veterans Services Director Adam Roche, a battle-tested US Marine attended the event to make veterans aware of services available to vets. “Dutchess County is grateful for the support of organizations that support our worthy veteran community,” said Roche. “We owe a tremendous debt to our veterans and Dutchess County works diligently to honor their contributions.”
“We have more than 70 members in our organization,” said VSA President Todd Dillon. “Membership is open to veterans and civilians alike that all work to give veterans the support they deserve.” Membership in the organization is $20 per year and the group meets quarterly to discuss events and fundraisers for the organization. Applications can be found here.
