July 4, 2025
As fireworks light up the sky and the stars and stripes wave proudly across the nation, we at Childress Vineyards take this moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of Independence Day — a celebration of freedom, patriotism, and the brave men and women who have fought to protect it.
A Legacy of Support: Richard Childress and the Armed Forces
At the heart of Childress Vineyards is a man whose passion extends far beyond racing and winemaking. Our founder, Richard Childress, has long been a dedicated supporter of the United States military. Known for his deep respect for service members, Richard has consistently shown unwavering commitment to honoring our nation’s heroes — both on and off the track.
From proudly flying the American flag over the vineyard to participating in veteran-focused charitable initiatives, Richard’s patriotism is more than symbolic. He has supported numerous military appreciation events and has used his platform in NASCAR to bring attention to military causes, ensuring that veterans and active-duty personnel are recognized for their sacrifice.
A Veteran’s Touch: Winemaker Mark Friszolowski
Our commitment to honoring the military is also deeply personal. Our esteemed winemaker, Mark Friszolowski, is a proud U.S. Army Veteran. After serving his country, Mark transitioned into the world of winemaking, bringing with him the discipline, dedication, and attention to detail that he honed during his military service. Since joining Childress Vineyards in 2003, Mark has been instrumental in establishing our reputation for excellence in the Yadkin Valley and beyond.
Mark’s journey from soldier to winemaker is a testament to the diverse paths our veterans take and the invaluable contributions they make in every field. His leadership and expertise have not only elevated our wines but have also inspired our team to uphold the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance.
Helping a Hero: An Annual Celebration of Service
Every year, Childress Vineyards proudly hosts a major event called Helping a Hero, an inspiring gathering dedicated to honoring wounded veterans and their families. This heartfelt event brings together patriots from across the region in support of a noble cause — providing specially adapted homes to severely injured military personnel.
As part of this tradition, we are honored to partner with Lee Greenwood, the voice behind “God Bless the U.S.A.,” and Joey Jones, retired Marine, News contributor, and Veterans Advocate. Their steadfast support and presence at our vineyard reinforce the powerful message of unity and gratitude that defines our shared mission.
Through Helping a Hero, we not only celebrate our veterans — we uplift them in meaningful, life-changing ways.
A Personal Salute This Fourth of July
As we celebrate America’s birthday, we’re reminded that freedom is never free. At Childress Vineyards, we proudly join Richard Childress and Mark Friszolowski in honoring all who have served. Whether you’re raising a glass at our vineyard this weekend or enjoying a bottle at home with family, we invite you to toast to the strength, resilience, and bravery of the U.S. Armed Forces.
From all of us at Childress Vineyards: Happy Independence Day, and thank you to our heroes in uniform.
