Episode 35 - Whiskey & War Stories

In this special episode of The 850 Podcast, host Ron Keel sits down with Kesia Blenn, event coordinator from Panama City’s Parks, Culture & Recreation Department, and Mr. Chime, a Navy Vietnam veteran and one of the featured speakers at the upcoming Whiskey & War Stories event.

🎖️ Kesia Blenn, who also serves in the U.S. Army, shares how her team is bringing together the City of Panama City, local veterans, and the community to host the “This We’ll Defend” celebration on June 14, marking the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army. From logistics and partnerships to honoring veterans through intimate storytelling, Kesia offers a look behind the scenes at what it takes to build an event that genuinely reflects the community it serves.

⚓ Mr. Chime, a spirited Navy veteran, brings the energy as he recounts stories from his time in Vietnam, shares moments that shaped his worldview, and discusses his interest in eventually writing his own memoirs for his grandchildren. While he's written a fictional story inspired by his experiences, it’s his real-life service that takes center stage—full of humor, grit, and reflections from a generation that served during one of the most turbulent times in American history.

🎟️ Whiskey & War Stories pairs authentic veteran storytelling with a guided tasting of Horse Soldier® Bourbon in small-group sessions held at two historic downtown venues.

📅 Event Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
🎧 This episode brings you inside the stories—and the spirit—of a day meant to honor those who served.

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