An eight-year U.S. Army veteran serving two years in Iraq, Ben Peterson experienced the trauma of war. The prospect of coming home left him feeling extraordinarily vulnerable. Upon arrival, Peterson and his comrades were personally welcomed home by a squad of Vietnam veterans. That day, Peterson not only lunged into the loving arms of his family, he cherished the embrace of an earlier generation who also knew war’s brutality.

Considering Vietnam vets were largely spurned when they returned home, their show of honor and compassion left an indelible mark on Peterson as he transitioned into “normal” life.

In 2016, Peterson founded the nonprofit organization Engage Your Destiny, which has a mission to build spiritual resilience in the men and women of the United States Armed Forces by focusing on engaging active military, veterans, and their families through digital and in-person experiences. Engage Your Destiny’s mission is to bring honor, help and healing to those who have served.

Peterson is also the visionary behind Heroes Honor Festival happening May 27-28 at the Daytona International Speedway. The event is a calling for Peterson to give Vietnam veterans the long overdue celebration they deserve and need.