The beer is flowing at a new brewery in Norfolk. Armed Forced Brewing Company held its grand opening in Ghent Saturday.
The brewery is in the former O’Connors Brewery along West 24th Street.
Looking at the brewery’s decor, it’s easy to learn the theme is military-based, and the goal is to honor members of the Armed Forces and first responders.
“This is a tribute to our military and a tribute to America. So we’re here we’re excited to be here,” said CEO Alan Beal. “We made a huge investment in Norfolk, Virginia and Hampton Roads. And we’re just excited to get the doors open.”
News 3 FILEGovernor Glenn Youngkin announced the company’s arrival in Norfolk last year. City council later approved the conditional use permits, making way for the company to open its doors.
But controversy followed close behind—the company’s stance toward the LGBTQ community came into question. A tweet from Robert O’Neill, a former Navy SEAL, and part of the brewery’s leadership, expressed displeasure against drag queens in the Navy.