Sergeant’s Valor Bourbon Review

By Whiskey Veteran •  Updated: 09/29/25 •  4 min read

In a whiskey world flooded with celebrity labels and gimmick-aged spirits, Sergeant’s Valor Bourbon marches in with grit, purpose, and absolutely no fluff. This bourbon isn’t here for photo ops or to win popularity contests with influencers in skinny jeans—it’s here to deliver. Born from a mission-driven mindset and bottled with character, this pour pays tribute to those who’ve served, while offering up a well-balanced, easy-drinking experience any veteran or civilian can get behind.

If you’re looking for a bourbon that brings honor to your glass without demanding a combat pay-level budget, Sergeant’s Valor might be your next enlisted favorite.

Sergeant's Valor Bourbon

Sergeant’s Valor Bourbon

Mission Briefing

Commanding Officer: Brad Halling & the BHAWK Legacy

Behind Sergeant’s Valor stands Brad Halling, a retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major and true American badass with a backstory more powerful than a barrel-strength pour.

Brad began his military career in 1983 with 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and later served in covert counterterror units, including the elite Physical Security Support Element in Berlin. His service saw combat in Mogadishu during the 1993 Black Hawk Down mission, where his helicopter (Super 62) was struck by an RPG—costing him his left leg above the knee.

But Halling didn’t just survive—he returned to duty and became the first above-knee amputee to retire from the U.S. Army under the Continuation on Active Duty program. After retirement, he earned a graduate degree, became a certified prosthetist, and returned to train Special Operations soldiers as a civilian.

BHAWKBrad Halling American Whiskey Ko.—was born as a legacy project with his wife, Jess Halling, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and former JSOC Staff Judge Advocate. Their brand is rooted in gratitude, remembrance, and mission. Every bottle honors those Brad served with, especially the Black Hawk crews lost in battle. The Gratitude Series pays tribute with each release, and proceeds support future veteran wellness and educational programs through storytelling, exhibits, and community outreach in Southern Pines, NC.

So no—this isn’t just another bottle on the shelf. It’s a salute in a glass.

Recon Notes (Nose)

On the nose, Sergeant’s Valor opens with a warm welcome of toasted vanilla, brown sugar, and a soft wave of campfire oak. A second pass brings out cinnamon, leather, and a cherry note hiding in the tall grass. It’s like walking into a smoke-filled barracks after someone snuck a pie from the DFAC.

Frontline Flavor (Palate)

Sweet and structured, this bourbon hits first with caramel and honey before flanking with rye spice, black pepper, and oak. There’s a soft, buttery note in the middle—like cornbread cooked over an open flame. Nothing flashy, just disciplined, well-rounded flavor with zero attitude.

After Action (Finish)

The finish is medium-length, with a subtle fade of tobacco, barrel char, and butterscotch. It doesn’t try to outstay its welcome. Like any good Sergeant Major—it makes its point and lets you get on with your life.

Debrief

Sergeant’s Valor Bourbon isn’t just a whiskey—it’s a damn tribute. Backed by a legacy of sacrifice, resilience, and real-deal service, this bottle delivers both quality and cause. It’s a pour that speaks louder the more you know the story—and once you do, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Whether you’re sipping solo or toasting fallen brothers, this bourbon stands tall, with a story that deserves to be shared, and a mission that demands respect.

🎖 Whiskey Orders (Rating)

Active Duty Pour – Reliable and enjoyable daily drinker with honorable roots.

Whiskey Veteran

Joe is a U.S. Air Force veteran turned whiskey enthusiast and the voice behind WhiskeyVeteran.com. Over the past year, he and his wife have crisscrossed America in search of small-batch distilleries and untold stories behind each barrel. When he’s not sharing tasting notes and tour tips, you’ll find him mapping out their next whiskey-soaked adventure.