This week, we pause to reflect on two solemn and deeply meaningful observances — Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in the United Kingdom and across the Commonwealth.
As someone born in the UK and proud to call America home, I find this moment each November profoundly unifying. On both sides of the Atlantic, we remember the men and women who have worn the uniform — those who stood for freedom, who sacrificed for peace, and who remind us that the bond between our nations is rooted not only in shared history, but in shared courage.
Recently, I was honored to join Helping A Hero for their Patriot Award Gala at Mar-a-Lago — an evening that embodied that same spirit of gratitude and service. The event brought together national and international leaders, entertainers, veterans, and patriots united in support of one of America’s premier organizations building specially adapted homes for our nation’s severely wounded veterans.
Founded with the mission to empower independence and restore dignity, Helping A Hero has built more than 100 homes across the United States. Beyond the bricks and mortar, it builds community — ensuring that those who gave so much for our freedom are never forgotten.
It was an honor to attend and lend support alongside an inspiring lineup of fellow Helping A Hero supporters — including Meredith Iler, Nigel Farage, Lady Victoria Hervey, Senator John Loudon and Dr. Gina Loudon, Kevin Sorbo, Johnny Morris, Jeff Wilhoit, Congressman Zach Nunn, Congressman Billy Long, Paula Deen, Jason Aldean and his wife Brittany, Lee Greenwood and his wife Kimberly, Lynne Patton, Nancy Prall, Jacob Way, and SSG (Ret.) Shilo Harris, among hundreds of patriots gathered to celebrate those who defend our nation.
A Night Filled with Patriotism and Purpose
The evening was filled with stirring patriotic music, heartfelt stories, and emotional conversations with veterans. Each moment was a reminder that service and sacrifice transcend borders — that whether in the fields of Flanders or the mountains of Afghanistan, courage sounds the same in every accent.
I had the honor of meeting and speaking with SSG (Ret.) Shilo Harris, whose journey of survival and strength after being severely wounded in Iraq stands as a testament to resilience, faith, and the enduring human spirit.
Helping A Hero built a specially adapted home for Shilo and his family, giving him the freedom to continue his mission of advocacy and hope. His story, like so many others, embodies the connection between remembrance and renewal — the same spirit that defines both Veterans Day and Remembrance Day.
Among the memorable moments of the evening was sharing some of the first Stowloch Whiskey cigars with Senator John Loudon and Nigel Farage — a small toast to freedom, friendship, and the heroes who make both possible.
As we honor all who have served — from the poppy fields of Europe to the battlefields of modern times — may we continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in gratitude. Our liberty endures because of their courage, and our shared remembrance binds two nations in respect and resolve.
To learn more about Helping A Hero or to get involved, visit helpingahero.org.