The story behind Horse Soldier Bourbon is a fascinating one that dates back to the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks in 2001. Following the attacks, a small group of Special Forces soldiers from the U.S. Army's 5th Special Forces Group, known as ODA 595, were deployed to Afghanistan to support the Northern Alliance in their fight against the Taliban.
This group of soldiers, led by Captain Mark Nutsch and Chief Warrant Officer Bob Pennington, found themselves in a unique situation. As the only American military presence in the region at the time, they had to rely on unconventional tactics to navigate the rugged Afghan terrain and engage with the enemy. With limited resources and the need for mobility, they made the decision to use horses as their primary mode of transportation.
For three weeks, ODA 595 conducted their operations on horseback, earning them the moniker “Horse Soldiers.” Their bravery, resourcefulness, and determination during this time were truly remarkable. They were able to successfully coordinate with the Northern Alliance and help overthrow the Taliban regime in the region.
Years later, in 2015, two military veterans from ODA 595, John Koko and Scott Neil, joined forces with designer Elizabeth Pritchard-Koko to found Horse Soldier Bourbon. Inspired by their experiences in Afghanistan, they wanted to create a bourbon that honored the spirit of the Horse Soldiers and celebrated their legacy.
Horse Soldier Bourbon is not just a brand, but a symbol of courage, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. The founders wanted to capture the essence of their military service and translate it into a premium bourbon that would stand out in the crowded whiskey market.
The bourbon itself is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Each batch is made using a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, and is aged in new American white oak barrels. The result is a smooth and flavorful bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
But Horse Soldier Bourbon is more than just a delicious spirit. It is a way for the founders to give back to their fellow veterans and support causes that are important to them. A portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold goes towards various veteran-focused charities, such as the Green Beret Foundation and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.
The story behind Horse Soldier Bourbon is a testament to the resilience and bravery of the Horse Soldiers themselves, and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military. It is a brand that not only offers a quality product but also carries a meaningful message of honor, duty, and camaraderie.