honoring those who answered the call to serve
VetFest is an annual nonprofit, veteran-centric charitable event dedicated to honoring, supporting, and empowering those who have served our nation. Founded by veterans and continuing to be coordinated by veterans, VetFest is guided by individuals with more than 100 years of combined military service, bringing firsthand experience, understanding, and a deep personal commitment to the veteran community.
Our mission is rooted in gratitude and a commitment to ensuring that veterans, service members, and their families have access to meaningful resources, opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Through veteran-focused initiatives, events, outreach, and partnerships, VetFest works to bring people together while shining a light on the sacrifices, service, and contributions of America’s military community.
At the heart of VetFest is the belief that supporting veterans goes beyond simply saying “thank you.” Our veteran-led team understands firsthand the importance of camaraderie, connection, purpose, and access to meaningful support. We strive to create tangible opportunities for veterans to connect, find resources, build relationships, and engage with organizations and individuals who genuinely care about their success and quality of life.
Our efforts are designed not only to celebrate veterans, but also to help address the challenges they may face throughout their transition from military service to civilian life and beyond. By building bridges among veterans, families, businesses, community leaders, and charitable organizations, VetFest seeks to strengthen the network of support surrounding those who have served.
VetFest is more than an event—it is a veteran-led community built by those who have lived the experience of service. With more than a century of combined military experience guiding our efforts, we understand the importance of honoring service while creating opportunities for veterans to continue making a difference in their communities.
We envision a future where every veteran feels valued, connected, and empowered, and where communities actively recognize the incredible impact veterans continue to make long after their military service ends. Through compassion, collaboration, camaraderie, and action, VetFest is committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of veterans and their families while inspiring others to join us in honoring those who answered the call to serve.
Jason
Spencer
Event Co-Founder
Co-Founder, Warriors & Whiskey
A native of Saint Petersburg, Florida, Jason Spencer enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school, serving as a Naval Aircrewman. Over a distinguished 30-year career, he supported operations including ALLIED FORCE, JOINT FORGE, IRAQI FREEDOM, ENDURING FREEDOM, and INHERENT RESOLVE, with seven years in Naval Special Warfare. In December 2020, he envisioned a community where veterans could bond over a shared love for whiskey and a commitment to charitable causes, leading to the formation of Warriors & Whiskey alongside Milo and Tom. Jason retired from active duty in December of 2026 and currently resides in Florida with his family.
Our Team
The Event
James
Henson
Event Co-Founder
Owner, Corks & Barrels
After proudly serving 30 years in the United States Navy, James Henson began a new chapter dedicated to entrepreneurship and community service. Drawing on the leadership, discipline, and commitment he developed throughout his military career, James opened Corks & Barrels, creating a business that reflects his passion for bringing people together while making a positive impact in the community. Through Corks & Barrels, James is committed to supporting local residents, veterans, and those in need. He works closely with local businesses and community partners to raise awareness, build connections, and help shine a light on resources and opportunities available to those who need support. His mission goes beyond running a successful business—James strives to use Corks & Barrels as a platform for giving back, honoring fellow veterans, strengthening the community, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The Venue
James Henson, who retired after serving 30 years in the U.S. Navy, owns the tasting-style wine and whiskey bar and lounge at 1824 Town Center Blvd., Suite 101, near East West Parkway.
Henson, a retired aviation maintenance officer, said the idea for the business began taking shape toward the end of his military career. After years of serving in the Navy, he decided to pursue a concept he had been considering for some time: a relaxed, tasting-focused establishment where guests could enjoy quality wine and whiskey in a comfortable setting.
"When I looked at opening this, I knew it would be very popular here because there is no other establishment like ours. We're very unique in our approach," Henson said.
The business was an idea Henson had been thinking about for years. As his appreciation for wine and whiskey grew, so did the possibility of turning that interest into a business venture.
"As I've gotten older, my palate has gotten a little more refined," Henson said. "I've always liked good wine, and I've always liked good whiskey, but I never really thought of it being a possible business venture."
That changed a few years ago when Henson was on deployment, and some friends took him to a small wine bar that was "absolutely packed" with customers.
Henson began thinking about the possibility of opening a similar establishment of his own. He recalled that one of the biggest complaints he'd heard from friends on Fleming Island was that there was no place for their wives to gather for a glass of wine except a full-service restaurant or one of their homes.
"I thought it [wine bar] looked like a great concept and I thought it would do well on Fleming Island. So when I got back home I started planning on opening one here," said Henson, who has lived on Fleming Island since 2011.
After retiring from the Navy, Henson was able to devote more attention to bringing the concept to life. As his appreciation for fine whiskey grew, so too did the idea to offer a selection of whiskies alongside wine in a bar filled with comfortable furniture and an inviting, laid-back atmosphere.
"People love good wine. Obviously, if a spouse wanted to come, she could bring her husband and he could enjoy a nice glass of whiskey while his wife enjoys a nice glass of wine," Henson said.
DISCLAIMER: VetFest is not affiliated, associated, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the Department of War (DOW), or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates. By attending this event, you voluntarily assume all risks and release the organizers, Corks & Barrels, Warriors & Whiskey, the City of Fleming Island, Clay County, Clay Veterans Inc., and their affiliates from any liability for injury, accident, or incident.
This event would not be possible without the support and backing of Clay Veterans Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.