Memorial Day Weekend Salute: Special Preview of Four Branches Bourbon
- Editorial Staff
- May 19
- 3 min read
Founded by veterans from all four branches of the U.S. military, this Bourbon blends award-winning craftsmanship with a deeper purpose
In a market overflowing with craft spirits and clever branding, Four Branches Bourbon stands apart—not just for the award-winning bourbon it produces, but for the uncommon bond at its core. Founded by veterans Rick Franco, Mike Trott, Harold Underdown, and RJ Casey—who collectively served in four branches of the U.S. military (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines) Four Branches is more than a spirits company. It’s a mission-driven brand built on service, sacrifice, and storytelling.
At the heart of this mission is Franco, a former U.S. Marine who served for 11 years before moving on to the CIA. His experience repatriating a fellow CIA contractor who sacrificed his life to save others would become the emotional and moral foundation for Four Branches Bourbon. “This brand was born out of reverence,” Rick shares. “It’s a tribute to those who serve in silence—and sometimes don’t make it home.”
With help from legendary Master Distiller Steve Nally, Four Branches launched its debut release, Founders Blend, in 2023—a 96-proof Kentucky blended straight bourbon whiskey crafted with a rare four-grain mash bill. It’s since earned multiple accolades, including Double Gold at the SIP Awards and 94 points at the Proof Awards. But the brand’s true impact lies beyond the glass.
From the beginning, Four Branches was built to give back. A portion of every bottle sold supports nonprofits that serve veterans and first responders. In just its first 19 months, the company helped raise over $400,000 for organizations like Folds of Honor, the CIA Officers Memorial Foundation, and other mission-aligned charities.
“Success isn’t measured by money,” Franco explains. “It’s measured by the lives we impact, the legacies we honor, and the conversations we inspire.”
A Moment of Remembrance and Celebration
As Memorial Day 2025 approaches, Four Branches is leaning further into its founding purpose: honoring the memory of those who gave everything. “Memorial Day isn’t just a long weekend,” adds co-founder Mike Trott. “It’s a sacred reminder of those who paid the ultimate price. Our bourbon is a way to pause, remember, and raise a glass to them—with meaning.”
In observance of Memorial Day, the brand will be spotlighting fallen heroes and stories of silent service across its digital platforms, and partnering with military support organizations to bring communities together for remembrance events.
New Partnership with Dillon Carmichael
To amplify its message and deepen its cultural roots, Four Branches recently launched a powerful new partnership with rising country music star Dillon Carmichael. Known for his soulful voice and blue-collar storytelling, Carmichael brings a raw, authentic energy that aligns perfectly with the Four Branches ethos.
“Dillon understands what we’re about,” says Trott. “He’s the voice of the working man, the patriot, the one who hasn’t forgotten where he comes from. This partnership isn’t about celebrity—it’s about shared values.”
The collaboration will include special edition bottles, VIP fan activations, and a shared commitment to support veterans and their families through music, storytelling, and impact-driven campaigns.
Toast to What Matters
In the initial interview for our inaugural print volume, coming Fall 2025, Franco reflects on his definition of the American Dream—“not a guarantee, but the chance to become something more”—and shares the hard lessons that have shaped him as both a leader and a father. “Do the hard right over the easy wrong,” he says. “Lead by example. And never forget those who walked before you.”
This is more than a bourbon story. It’s a story of honor, healing, and heritage—just in time for a holiday that asks us to remember what really matters.
Catch the full interview in our Fall 2025 print volume, where we sit down with Franco to explore the journey behind Four Branches, the new collaboration with Dillon Carmichael, and the deeper meaning behind a glass raised in remembrance.
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Don't forget to subscribe to our inaugural print volume for this interview, along with a collection of other inspiring stories about the people and places that capture the American spirit.