Veterans & Valor: A Night of Honor, Patriotism, and Community by Kristen McDougal

On Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the Vineyards Country Club in Naples came alive with heartfelt tributes and patriotic spirit as community members gathered for the American Constitutional Rights Union’s (ACRU) Veterans & Valor event. The sold-out evening featured intimate performances from legendary recording artist Lee Greenwood and brought veterans, military families, civic leaders, and community members together for a memorable celebration honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States armed forces.

The event was hosted by ACRU’s Committee to Support and Defend (CSD), under the leadership of Executive Director Lt. Col. Allen B. West (ret.) and CEO Lori Roman. The hallmark of the evening was the presentation of the CSD Valor Award to Naples resident and ACRU Member Captain Wayne Smith, U.S. Air Force – Vietnam POW. Captain Smith spent 1,882 days in captivity as a prisoner of war in Vietnam after being shot down. He returned home to the U.S. during Operation Homecoming in 1973. His story of courage, endurance, and unbreakable spirit stood at the heart of the night’s message, offering a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices made in defense of liberty. Video of Captain Wayne Smith’s story can be seen online https://theacru.org/veterans-and-valor.

The evening also showcased heartfelt testimonials and personal reflections from Naples veterans and their family members. Among them, attendee Dr. Daniel B. Mjolsness (U.S. Navy), age 98, shared of his service in WWII. He pointed to his years in WWII as a shaping season – a real example of sacrificial service. Lt. Col. Allen West took time to underscore the importance of supporting veterans not just on a single day but every day. He encouraged veterans that the oath to support and defend the constitution has no expiration date and applauded their efforts of continuing their defense of liberty in our great nation.

The American Constitutional Rights Union (ACRU) is a national nonprofit organization headquartered in Naples, FL and is dedicated to defending and advancing the constitutional rights and liberties of all Americans. Founded in 1999, ACRU focuses on promoting a constitutional understanding of civil rights, protecting fundamental freedoms such as free speech and religious liberty, and supporting initiatives that uphold the rule of law and national sovereignty.

Be sure to connect with the ACRU and be the first to get the details about Veterans & Valor 2026 and other events by going to https://theacru.org/veterans-and-valor and filling out the interest form. ACRU is proud to be headquartered in Naples and connecting with community members.

For more information, questions, or comments, please email Kristen McDougal, Director of Communications and Outreach, at kristen.mcdougal@theacru.org

ACRU Headquarters: 305 5th Avenue South, #204-G, Naples, FL 34102 www.theacru.org