No Sh*t There I was...

This is more than an event. This is a movement.No Sht, There I Was…* is a raw, real, and uplifting evening built around the voices of those who have worn the uniform and those who serve our communities every day.

We are bringing together veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and families for a night of laughter, storytelling, entrepreneurship, and connection.

Come hear the moments that shaped our lives.Come share your own.Come be part of something real.

📅 Saturday, November 1, 2025🕒 Vendor & Pop-Up Showcase: 3:00 PM🎤 Storytelling & Open Mic: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 Lost Rhino Brewing Company – Ashburn, VA(Free onsite parking | Indoor & outdoor space | Rain or shine)

Featuring voices and support from:

• Veterans Growing America
• Afghanistan United Front
• LiboRisk
• Leaders and operators from CIA, FBI, DIA
• Special Forces & Navy SEALs
• Afghanistan Commandos
• Local Sheriffs, Police Chiefs, and Fire Department Leaders

🎤 Veteran & First Responder Open Mic – Raw, hilarious, and heartfelt stories of service🎭 Stand-up Comedy – A few laughs to lighten the soul🚒 Fire Truck On-Site – A hit with the kids🎨 Face Painting & Games – Family fun for all ages🛍️ Veteran & First Responder-Owned Small Business Market – Featuring handcrafted goods, apparel, art, tactical gear, and more🍺 Craft Beer by Lost Rhino Brewing Co. – Enjoy a cold drink while connecting with the community🎁 Raffle Giveaway – Win a Premium DTS Map (a $400 handcrafted tribute to your service journey)

Because connection matters.Because your story matters.Because this community needs a space to laugh, cry, share, and heal.

Whether you are a veteran, a military spouse, a Gold Star family member, a first responder, or a civilian who supports the mission, you belong here.

🎟️ General Admission – Includes event access and your first beer (non-beer tickets available)🛍️ Vendor Booths – 10x10 space to showcase your business or nonprofit, with mic time to introduce your brand🤝 Event Sponsors – Support the mission and gain visibility at the event and online💸 Supporter Donations – Can’t make it? Contribute and know you’re helping veterans and first responders continue their mission beyond the uniform

💥 A portion of proceeds will benefit , supporting U.S. Special Operations Forces veterans and their families through mentorship, wellness, and emergency relief.

Come share your story. Come hear others. Or just come enjoy a cold beer in great company. Either way, you’ll be part of something real.

⚠️ Parent Advisory: While the vendor market and family activities are all-ages, the open mic storytelling may include strong language, adult themes, and unscripted stories involving trauma or combat. Parental discretion is advised during the 6–9 PM storytelling segment.

🔗 Lost Rhino Brewing: @lostrhinobrew🔗 Veteran Command: @dtsmap🌐 Website: www.dtsmap.com

Info: Step outside and explore our Vendor Village, a curated marketplace of veteran-owned and first responder-owned small businesses, nonprofits, and community partners.

From handcrafted goods and apparel to tactical gear, art, jewelry, and family-friendly services, the Vendor Village is where stories, entrepreneurship, and community meet. It’s more than shopping — it’s about discovering the creativity and resilience of those who continue to serve in new ways.

Enjoy food, shop local, meet business owners, and support veteran and first responder entrepreneurs who are building their next mission.

Info: When the clock hits 6, the mic goes live. This is the heartbeat of the night. Veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, and family members step up to share real stories—funny, raw, and everything in between. No scripts. No pressure. Just a respectful room ready to listen.

What to expect

Short, punchy stories that hit hard and uplift

A supportive crowd that gets it

Space for first-time speakers and seasoned storytellers

How to jump in

Add your name to the list at the host table

Keep it to 3 to 5 minutes

Speak your truth and leave it all on the stage

Bring your voice. Bring your courage. This is where connection happens.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Veteran Command