Veterans Empowered Together (V.E.T.) hosted its third annual military ball Saturday, marking a record-breaking evening with over 430 attendees and support from the Owensboro community.
The event was held at the Owensboro Convention Center, where it sold out its initial 400 tickets early and quickly surpassed last year’s attendance of 385. After selling out, the nonprofit opened back up to sell 40 more tickets. Attendees included veterans, active-duty military personnel, and community members, all coming together to celebrate and support the nonprofit’s mission.
“The turnout was absolutely incredible,” Brian Basham from V.E.T. said. “It shows how much this community values our veterans and believes in the work we’re doing. It was heartwarming to see so many people come together for a night of camaraderie and fun.”
The evening featured a social hour, a formal dinner, a ceremonial program, and live music by the Andy Brasher Band. A highlight was the “military walk,” which allowed attendees to honor different branches of the military and donate to support V.E.T.’s services.
“We couldn’t do this without the community’s generosity,” Basham said. “Owensboro is a special place, and we’re blessed to have such incredible support for our veterans.”
Proceeds from the ball will fund V.E.T.’s programming, including equine therapy, music therapy through their “Enlisted Songs” initiative, and regular meetings that foster connections among veterans from different generations and with the broader community.
Basham emphasized that the event was open to the public, a tradition that will continue in the future. Most veterans and military personnel dressed in formal military attire, while civilian attendees wore black-tie apparel, creating an elegant atmosphere for the evening.
“We want everyone to know they’re welcome,” Basham said. “This event isn’t just for veterans—it’s for the entire community to come together, honor those who’ve served, and enjoy a great night.”
Owensboro Health, the VFW, the American Legion, AM VETS, and Southern Star are among the event’s sponsors. Basham expressed gratitude to these organizations and the community for their unwavering support.
“This was an amazing event, and we’re so thankful,” Basham said. “We’re already looking forward to next year and continuing to grow.”
Veterans Empowered Together was formed to connect and support veterans through innovative programs. Basham said they host regular events to strengthen bonds within the veteran community and with the public. Other services include equine and music therapy. For more information, visit https://veteransempoweredtogether.com/.
