From Military Bonds to Bourbon Bottles: The Journey of Four Branches Bourbon
When a close friendship is forged in the crucible of military service, it sometimes leads to unexpected ventures. For Rick Franco and his fellow veterans, the loss of a cherished friend inspired them to create Four Branches Bourbon, a brand that embodies patriotism, camaraderie, and entrepreneurship.
Franco, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, teamed up with RJ Casey (Special Forces), Mike Trott (Air Force), and Harold Underdown (Navy) to launch the bourbon brand. Since its inception in 2023, the company has raised over $500,000 for veteran causes, with a mission rooted in service and friendship.
The Inspiration: A Friendship with Greg Wright
The seeds of Four Branches Bourbon were planted decades ago through Franco’s friendship with Greg Wright, a bond that began at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Franco reminisces about their time together, stating, “When you go to school like that, you bond with other cadets, other classmates.”
Although their paths diverged after serving in the Marines, a chance phone call years later rekindled their connection. Tragically, Wright’s untimely death deeply impacted Franco, who was involved in the solemn task of returning his friend’s body to the U.S.
Crafting a Legacy: The Formation of Four Branches
Driven by a desire to honor his friend and his own military roots, Franco embarked on establishing a bourbon company. The venture was not without its challenges, as Franco humorously noted, “That’s all fine and dandy until Uncle Sam tells you can’t sell it on Facebook.”
Franco enlisted the help of fellow veterans: Mike Trott, Harold Underdown, and RJ Casey. Together, they formed a team that reflected the four branches of the U.S. military, each member bringing unique skills and experiences to the table.
A Mission of Honor
The brand operates out of Franco’s home in Tennessee, while the bourbon production occurs at Bardstown Bourbon Company in Kentucky. The company aims to promote responsible drinking within the military community, with slogans like “Serve honorably. Drink honorably” and “Sip to remember, let’s not drink to forget.”
Four Branches Bourbon allocates 4% of its gross income to support military and first responder organizations, including the CIA Officers Memorial Fund and Folds of Honor. The company’s efforts are not just about the bourbon itself, but about fostering connections and preserving memories.
As Franco reflects on the purpose of their endeavor, he emphasizes the importance of remembrance, “I will always sip to remember the Gregs in my life, the Greggs that didn’t come home. We all will, right?”
In the spirit of camaraderie and reflection, Four Branches Bourbon continues to build a legacy grounded in honor, connection, and a commitment to giving back to those who serve.
