PoliticsTop Veterans Group Partners With Cannabis Brand To Promote THC Drinks As Alcohol Alternative At VFW Posts

OG Article By Kyle Jaeger

October 09 2025

Historic Agreement

• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) partners with Torch Drinks, a Florida-based hemp THC beverage company.

• First major veterans organization to collaborate with a cannabis business.

• Deal includes branding licensing and distribution at VFW posts in legal states.

Purpose

• Offers veterans an alcohol alternative.

• Supports veterans with service-related injuries, chronic pain, or mental health challenges.

• Proceeds fund VFW programs, including:

  • No-cost VA health claim assistance.

  • Financial support for veteran families.

“This helps us raise funds while exploring better ways to meet veterans’ needs,” said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore.

VFW’s Advocacy

• Founded in 1899, VFW has 1.4 million members across 6,000 posts.

• Supports research and access to alternative treatments like medical cannabis, hemp, and psychedelics.

• Testified before Congress in 2025 on these issues.

Torch Drinks’ Role

• Produces federally compliant hemp-derived THC beverages.

• Promotes relaxation and revitalization for veterans.

“We’re proud to support veterans with a safe, social alternative,” said Collin Kerrigan, Torch Drinks co-founder.

Broader Context

• Veterans groups push for federal cannabis reform to sway Republican lawmakers.

• August 2025 study links cannabis use to milder PTSD symptoms and reduced negative emotions in veterans.

• Senate passed 2025 spending bill allowing VA doctors to recommend medical cannabis in legal states.

• Similar provisions passed in prior years but never enacted.

• GOP senator confident in expanding psychedelic and alternative treatment access under Trump administration.