Veterans Beer Club
Executive Team
The Veterans Beer Club executive team has been entirely veteran-operated and led since 2016. Our team comprises dedicated individuals from each branch of service, united by a singular objective: to provide support to our veteran communities nationwide. While doing so, we relish the opportunity to savor a refreshing beer and share our experiences of service.
Brian Grana
Interim President/Vice President
Brian is a dedicated community leader and 20-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He leverages his experience and commitment to service as Co-Founder of the Veterans Beer Club and an Executive Board member of American Legion Post 416. Brian actively volunteers with organizations focused on community development, youth mentoring, and support for military and veteran affairs. He is the proud father of two Eagle Scouts, including an active duty Marine and a UCSD Honors student.
Phil Kendro
Treasurer
Phil Kendro is a 20-year Marine Corps veteran now flying as a Captain for United Airlines. He’s dedicated to supporting the veteran community as President & CEO of the Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial Association and Co-Founder of the Veterans Beer Club. Phil also actively volunteers with several San Diego organizations focused on military & veteran affairs and event planning. He's a proud father of two.
Kevin Cortes
Secretary
Kevin Cortes is a 20 year Marine Corps veteran and co-founder of the Veterans Beer Club. He is still active in the veteran community of San Diego where he and his wife Jennifer lead the military military of their megachurch, is a veteran advocate for employers, and actively coach other service members in navigating VA claims. Kevin is an avid golfer and the PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) Chapter Captain for San Diego County.
Aaron Kiewicz
Board Member
Aaron Kiewicz is a retired U.S. Air Force Veteran dedicated to veteran transition and community building. He founded the Colorado Springs chapter of Veterans Beer Club (VBC) in early 2020, successfully growing it into a flagship chapter despite pandemic challenges. As a Regional Coordinator, he mentored chapter leaders and supported VBC’s national expansion. Now on the Executive Board, Aaron drives veteran engagement through strategic initiatives and mentorship. He and his wife, Krista, also a veteran, are proud parents of three, including a son carrying on a four-generation tradition of military service.
Jason Shoffit
Technology Committee Lead
Jason Shoffit is a retired USAF Veteran and dedicated leader in veteran outreach and community building. As Technology Lead for the Veterans Beer Club (VBC), he focuses on enhancing the organization’s national virtual presence to better support veterans, transitioning military, and their spouses. He previously led the Colorado Springs Chapter for five years (2020-2025), building on its existing framework to increase visibility and impact within the local community. Jason is married to Rebecca and has two sons.