Shopping at a business that employs veterans is great. Shopping at one owned by veterans, and that makes products with fellow veterans in mind, is even better. The holidays are approaching quickly, and if you're stuck debating what to get the veteran or military servicemember in your life, here are some great gift ideas that are sure to impress.
Clothing
Grunt Style. Founded by a former Army drill sergeant in 2009, but now employing more than 90 veterans and patriots, Grunt Style lives by a code – PT, Freedom & Bacon. The company's Beer Guarantee – which ensures that any tears or beer stains are enough to earn a new shirt – means that shirts like "I Find Your Lack of Ammo Disturbing" won't ever lose their place in your vet's wardrobe.
Lady Brigade. Nadine Noky, a veteran of the Iraq War, told Buzzfeed earlier this year that she was fed up with walking into stores and finding no clothes for women veterans, despite the fact that women make up nearly 16 percent of the military. Noky decided to fix that. Lady Brigade is one of the only clothing lines for female veterans, and with shirts that say things like "This is What a Veteran Looks Like" and "Daughter, Sister, Sailor," women are finally able to celebrate their service with as much pride as men.
Nine Line Apparel. Servicemembers both past and present will recognize the military's term for an emergency medevac request. Daniel and Tyler Merritt, two brothers who served together in the Army, started the company in their garage. Now, with more than 70 veterans and military spouses contributing to a brand built on initiative and high-quality clothing, Nine Line is a great place to find both men and women's apparel and outdoor gear.
Accessories
Combat Flip Flops. If the name seems odd – not many veterans would likely advocate going into battle with flip flops – it's only because the two Army Rangers behind this innovative company decided that, after several combat tours in Afghanistan, a peaceful and easy-going approach to business was in order. All of the company's flip flops are made in Bogota, Colombia, where jobs are turning people away from violence toward making a good life for themselves. In addition to awesome footwear, the Claymore Bag puts a cool spin on men's messenger bags.
Sword & Plough. You might say that the idea for making fashionable recycled and repurposed military gear has been with Emily and her sister Betsy from the very beginning. They both grew up at West Point, their uncle was a Marine NASA astronaut, and Emily now serves as an officer in the Army. Their totes and handbags made out of parachutes and tent canvas come with a great military discount.
Beverages
Leadslingers' Whiskey. Members of the popular Article 15 clothing company decided to branch out in 2013 by founding Leadslingers' Whiskey. This small group of Army Ranger, Air Force TACP and Special Forces veterans have crafted a small-batch, single-barrel aged and double distilled bourbon so smooth that it must be tasted to be believed.
Black Rifle Coffee. If your veteran prefers beverages of the caffeinated sort, this is the coffee for them. Owned by former Special Forces operators, Black Rifle Coffee imports only the highest quality beans from Colombia and Brazil, then blends and roasts them with a top secret methodology. Blends include "Sniper's Hide" and "Girls for Gunslingers," along with related apparel.
Shopping for servicemembers or veterans in their life after service can be tough, but with gifts like these, it's hard to go wrong this holiday season.