No Sh*t There I was...

Celebrate Flag Day with an unforgettable mix of storytelling, community, and family fun at “No Sh*t, There I Was…” a veteran storytelling night and pop-up market that honors service with heart, humor, and purpose.

Date and Time:

• 📅 Saturday, June 14, 2025

• 🕒 Vendor & Pop-Up Showcase: 3:00 PM

• 🕔 Storytelling & Open Mic: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Lost Rhino Brewing Company Ashburn, VA (Free onsite parking, indoor and outdoor space)

Event Description: Join us for a night of powerful stories, laughter, and community connection as veterans, active-duty service members, military families, and civilians come together to share and listen. 🎙️

Kickoff remarks and storytelling from:

• Asem Shukoori – Former Afghan Special Forces, Chief of Staff at Afghanistan United Front, CEO of Frontline WATCH LLC, Regional Ambassador for Honor the Promise
• James Blick, USAF – Air Force Special Operations Intelligence Officer, Weapons School (Top Gun) Graduate, Senior Advisor in the Office of the Secretary of Defense
• Rachel Cuda – Former CIA Operations Officer, Senior Advisor in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Navy SEAL spouse and daughter
• Chris Harrison – Army veteran, stand-up comedian, devoted father, and George Mason University graduate
• Donnell Johns – Army veteran and founder of Veterans Growing America, a champion of veteran entrepreneurship and community empowerment

What to Expect:

🎤 Veteran Storytelling Open Mic – Raw, hilarious, and heartfelt stories from those who’ve worn the uniform

🎭 Stand-up Comedy – A few laughs to lighten the soul

🚒 Fire Truck On-Site – A hit with the kids!

🎨 Face Painting & Games – Fun for the whole family

🛍️ Veteran-Owned Small Business Market – Featuring dozens of vendors offering:
• Handcrafted arts & crafts
• Fashion & apparel
• Jewelry, accessories, and perfumes
• Tactical gear & memorabilia
• And so much more

🍺 Enjoy a cold drink from Lost Rhino Brewing Co. while shopping, connecting, and celebrating service and community.

Will be raffling off a Premium DTS Map! ($400 Product!)

Why Attend? Celebrate Flag Day by reconnecting with the community and honoring the legacy of service through shared experiences and humor. Whether you're a veteran, military spouse, Gold Star family member, first responder, or civilian supporter — you’re invited.

✨ Come to share your story, hear others, support veteran entrepreneurs, or just enjoy a good drink in great company. You’ll be part of something real.

Ticket Options:
🎟️ General Admission – $20
Includes entry + your first beer. Come enjoy the stories, shop, laugh, and connect.

🛍️ Vendor Booth – $100
Showcase your veteran-owned business or brand. Includes a table, two chairs, and promotion in event materials.

🤝 Event Sponsor – $250
Be recognized as a key supporter of the veteran community. Includes brand placement, public thanks during the event, and the opportunity to include materials in attendee bags.

💸 Supporter Donation – $20
Can’t attend? Show your support from afar. Your donation will go directly toward helping us host and fund veteran-centered programming and charitable support.

💥 A portion of proceeds will benefit the Vigilant Torch, supporting U.S. Special Operations Forces and helping veterans continue their mission beyond the uniform.

Vigilant Torch: Founded in 2009, Vigilant Torch supports a unique subset of the Special Operations community and their families through holistic well-being initiatives. Our programs—ranging from mentorship and wellness programs to emergency relief and educational opportunities—are tailored to address the specific challenges of military life, transition to civilian life, and beyond. We provide personalized resources that empower and uplift, making us a trusted, essential resource for those we serve.

Website: https://vigilant-torch.org/

Family-Friendly | Indoor & Outdoor Venue | Free Parking | Rain or Shine

Come to share your story. Come to hear others. Or just come to drink a cold one in great company. You’ll be part of something real.

Parent Advisory:
While the vendor market and family activities are designed for all ages, please be advised that the open mic storytelling portion may include strong language, adult themes, and unscripted stories involving trauma or combat. These stories are real and heartfelt but may not be appropriate for children. Parental discretion is advised during the 5:00–8:00 PM storytelling segment.

Follow us and support the mission:
🔗 Lost Rhino: @lostrhinobrew
🔗 Veteran Command: @dtsmap
🌐 Website: www.dtsmap.com
📘 Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Bi6HBghqB/

Also check out other Comedy events in Ashburn.