VME Ends 2013 With a Bang!

With not-soon-forgotten events in Los Angeles and New York, VME was honored to wrap out yet another year full of growth, partnerships, accomplishments, and good times. 

VME:LA held it’s 2nd Annual Holiday Gala on Friday Dec. 13th at the historic American Legion Post 43 in Hollywood, CA. The event was sold out; over 200 veterans and guests in attendance and looking sharp. The evening included a gourmet dinner, drinks, red carpet, live music, DJ, stand up comedy, photo booth, toys for tots drive, and dozens of epic door prizes. (Holiday Party Pics : Red Carpet Pics : Photo Booth Pics)

A big thanks to MC/comedian Jose Sarduy (Air Force vet), comedian Justin Wood (Army vet) for providing laughs throughout the night and to Elaine Faye and the Big Bang for two incredible sets of live music. Dozens of VFT-ers and guests went home with door prizes including mentorship sessions with award winning filmmakers, casting directors, and studio executives as well as items such as HD camcorders, autographed memorabilia, and tickets to various shows and sporting events. The night culminated as VFT board member Karen Kraft took the mic, gathered everyone around her in a tight circle, and eloquently delivered the 2013 VME Year in Review. 

In this year VME saw the creation of the official website/online veteran directory, numerous high profile events, and the forging of relationship with great organizations such as Easter Seals, Got Your Six, LA Film School, GI Film Festival, and more.

2013 also brought the creation of VME:NY, spearheaded by USMC vet, producer, and Producer's Guild Member Brian Iglesias. Under Brian’s leadership, veterans in NYC met with various industry icons to include Daily Show host Jon Stewart and Focus Features CEO James Schamus. VME:NY closed out 2013 on Monday Dec. 16th as a select group of VME-ers were chosen to participate in the Association of Commercial Producers interview round table event.

Through VME's website, online directory, and various Facebook groups, veterans in the industry nationwide can now connect and support one other like never before. 

This of course would not be possible without the ideas, support , and energy of our members, partners, and sponsors. As 2014 approaches, we hope the members of VME will continue to inspire one another, cast and hire one another, constructively police and advise one another, and ultimately, continually prove to be one of the most professional and talented group of people in the entertainment industry today.

Onward!