🔥 THE SMOKE PIT & THE SERVICE EXCHANGE (SX)
Stories. Laughter. Brotherhood.
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 3 PM – 9 PM
📍 Lost Rhino Brewing Company, Ashburn, VA
🎤 Open Mic & Comedy start at 7 PM
ABOUT THE EVENT
It all starts the same way…
“No sh*t, there I was…”
Welcome to The Smoke Pit — where veterans, law enforcement, first responders, and their families come together to share stories, laugh until it hurts, and reconnect with the camaraderie that never fades.
This is not a formal gala or a quiet networking night — it’s a living, breathing experience. A fusion of open-mic storytelling, stand-up comedy, live music, family fun, and a cold pint (or two).
Inside, The Smoke Pit is where the raw, hilarious, and heartfelt stories come alive. Outside, you’ll find The Service Exchange (SX) — a brand-new veteran and first responder marketplace featuring small businesses, entrepreneurs, and artisans who continue to serve the community long after the uniform.
It’s a full-day event that celebrates service, humor, resilience, and the shared mission that unites us all.
EVENT LINEUP
🎙️ THE SMOKE PIT (6–9 PM)
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Open Mic Storytelling — Real stories, no filters.
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Stand-Up Comedy — Hosted by Army veteran and co-host Chris Harrison.
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Guest Speakers — From CIA, DIA, Special Forces, Navy SEALs, Afghan Commandos, and local law enforcement leaders.
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Live Music & Entertainment — Celebrate the night with great sound, energy, and laughs.
🛍️ THE SERVICE EXCHANGE (SX) (3–7 PM)
Where service meets small business.
Browse and support veteran, law enforcement, and first responder–owned brands, plus community vendors who back the mission.
Featuring handcrafted goods, apparel, food, gear, gifts, and more.
🍺 CRAFT BEER & COMMUNITY
Enjoy a full selection of beers from Lost Rhino Brewing Company, a veteran-friendly brewery and proud host of The Smoke Pit.
🎯 FAMILY FUN
Fire trucks, police vehicles, and kids’ activities make this event perfect for families. Raffles, games, and community booths throughout the day.
FEATURED PARTNERS
💥 @liborisk — Adventure and purpose through travel and brotherhood.
💪 @lifttolivesociety — Law Enforcement mental health and wellness advocates.
🛍️ @veteransgrowingamerica — Veteran small business network and marketplace.
🌍 @afghanistanunitedfront & @the_lastcommander — Fighting for peace, justice, and freedom in Afghanistan.
🍻 Hosted by @lostrhinobrew — Loudoun County’s own veteran-friendly brewery.
THE MISSION
Veteran Command created The Smoke Pit to bring back the barracks banter, the laughter, and the sense of brotherhood that keeps us grounded.
It’s about connection, healing, and giving back to those who still serve — in uniform and out.
A portion of proceeds from the event supports Vigilant Torch Foundation, which provides relief and support to U.S. Special Operations and first responder families in times of need.
DETAILS AT A GLANCE
📅 Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
🕒 Time: 3 PM – 9 PM (Open Mic at 6 PM)
📍 Location: Lost Rhino Brewing Company | 21730 Red Rum Dr #142, Ashburn, VA
🎟️ Tickets: Available on Eventbrite and at the door (while supplies last)
👕 Dress Code: Totally casual — come as you are. Bring a hoodie, a sense of humor, and a love for good beer.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
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Veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, and military families.
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Law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, and first responders.
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Civilian supporters who love good beer and better stories.
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Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and local leaders who support the mission.
Whether you’re sharing your story or just there to raise a glass — you’ll leave feeling connected to something bigger.
VENDOR & SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES
Interested in being part of The Service Exchange (SX)?
We’re looking for veteran, law enforcement, first responder, and community-owned businesses that want to share their products and services while supporting the mission.
Vendor Options:
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🪖 Early Bird Vendor Booth: $150 (Limited to 5 spots)
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🎪 General Vendor Booth: $200 (Standard 10x10 space)
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💼 Corporate Booth: $500 (For business visibility and on-site engagement)
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🤝 Corporate Sponsor Booth: $1,000 — Sponsor 4 veteran-owned businesses to vend for free (Your sponsorship directly covers their booth fees)
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🎙️ Vendor Mic Time: $50 (Get 2 minutes on the mic to introduce your brand to the crowd)
Attendee Tickets:
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🍺 General Supporter (1 Beer Included): $20
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🎟️ General Supporter (No Drinks): $15
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❤️ Donations: Accepted and appreciated to help support veteran and first responder initiatives.
Vendor registration and details:
REGISTER OR LEARN MORE
🎟️ Tickets & Vendor Registration:
GET YOUR TICKETS!
🌐 Learn more about the mission:
www.dtsmap.com