The star-studded Proud to Honor: Celebrating America's Heroes concert on Nov. 7 featured performances by top country recording artists and appearances by popular TikTok creators, and I had the privilege of interviewing many of them while they walked the red carpet.

All of them underscored the importance of giving back to the military community and celebrating those who have served, as well as their families, for the sacrifices they've made. And many shared deeply personal stories about whom they're honoring this Veterans Day.

For me, this cause is deeply personal because I come from a military family. I have grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who have served across nearly all branches of the U.S. Military. One person in particular I choose to honor is my aunt, who was one of the U.S. Navy's first female naval ship commanders.

The program featured raw and honest moments as military families in attendance shared their true stories during the concert and livestream, honoring loved ones who had given their lives to protect the freedoms we experience every day.

Performer Lanie Gardner emphasized the importance of events like Proud To Honor in raising awareness and supporting organizations like Blue Star Families. She called out her great-grandpa and as well as her uncle who served in the Air Force.

I had a blast speaking with veteran creator Justin Nunley, who talked about his service and shared an emotional story about both his grandfathers, including one who served in the Korean War. Justin experienced a full-circle moment when he himself was stationed in Seoul, Korea.

He also stressed the importance of giving back to the community.

I also spoke with Kenny Jary, also known as @PatrioticKenny, a military veteran and former Ford Motor Company employee. We connected over our shared pride in being part of a company with a long-standing commitment to supporting the military and their families. His #OOTD featured an American flag cowboy hat with gold-studded stars, paired with a matching patriotic shirt.

Pierre Wilson said it was clear that Proud to Honor represented an opportunity to build awareness for the community and the foundations supporting them.

Also known as "The Best Dressed Cowboy" and recent recipient of The Truckle, Pierre walked me through his Canadian Tuxedo and custom cowboy hat featuring an owl feather he found in his barn.

It was a night filled with pride, gratitude, and profound appreciation. I felt honored to share this experience with the veterans in attendance and those watching the livestream at home. And the night reminded me that honoring our heroes isn't just about one day a year — it's a commitment we carry forward in how we show up, give back, and never forget the debt of gratitude we owe.

Georgia Yeomans is a member of the Ford Communications team.