Hy-Vee Harrison to be site of bottle signing of Horse Soldier Bourbon on Wednesday night

June 29, 2025 | By Muddy River News

Vince Makela, a member of The Horse Soldiers who entered Afghanistan on horseback days after the attack on on the United States on 9/11. | Photo courtesy of Hy-Vee

QUINCY — Hy-Vee Harrison Market Grill, 1400 Harrison, will hold a ticketed event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, for the signing by U.S. Army Green Beret and retired Sgt. Maj. Vince Makela of purchased bottles of the Horse Soldier Bourbon brand.

The brand was created by retired members of the U.S. Special Forces who were part of the first American team to enter Afghanistan on horseback after 9/11. This group of soldiers became known as the “Horse Soldiers,” and their story was portrayed in the movie “12 Strong.”

Makela, a St. Louis, Mo., native, was involved in multiple Special Forces assignments during his 32-year career. He was a member of the Army Special Forces team ODA 595 that was the first to land in Afghanistan in response to the attacks of the United States on 9/11. Their historic and unconventional warfare action earned them the moniker “The Horse Soldiers” and has brought life to the Hollywood film “12 Strong,” as well as other numerous loading books and documentaries.

Horse Soldier Bourbon has received numerous awards, including double gold medals at the San Francisco International Spirits Competition.

A significant and meaningful detail is that every bottle of Horse Soldier Bourbon is pressed by steel recovered from the World Trade Center. This is done to honor the spirit of resilience and service after the 9/11 attacks.

The company offers several bourbon expressions, including Straight Bourbon, Small Batch Bourbon and Barrel Strength Bourbon. They also release limited edition expressions like the Commander’s Select. Reviews indicate a variety of flavor notes, including vanilla, oak, honey, spice, butterscotch and sometimes floral or charred notes, depending on the specific expression.

Ticket price for the bottle signing, which includes appetizers and will go towards bottle purchases at the event, is $20. Tickets can be purchased at Hy-Vee Wine and Spirits, 1852 Broadway, or Hy-Vee Harrison, 1400 Harrison.