Honoring the D.C. Saluting Her Service Winners!

On December 12, Warrior Rising hosted its impactful Saluting Her Service event in Washington, D.C., bringing together veterans, entrepreneurs, and leaders for a night of celebration and competition. At the heart of the event was the highly anticipated Business Shower, which provided a platform for veteran entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses for funding, mentorship, and national recognition.

The competition was fierce, the ideas inspiring, and the night culminated in two standout businesses taking home the top honors.

First Place: SickFit

Claiming the $50,000 grand prize was SickFit, a company founded and led by Army veteran Paden Sickles. SickFit specializes in durable, high-performance apparel and socks designed to withstand the toughest conditions—inspired by the challenges faced during military training and outdoor activities. Sickles, who spent nearly a decade in the Army, envisioned SickFit as more than just a clothing brand; it represents grit, empowerment, and functionality.

“Life is sick,” Sickles often says, embodying her philosophy of embracing challenges with resilience and energy. SickFit’s mission extends beyond quality apparel—the company also gives back to local communities, staying true to its roots of service and purpose.

This win marks a significant milestone for Sickles as she transitions out of the military and fully scales her business. The $50,000 prize will fuel her next phase of growth, enabling SickFit to expand its wholesale relationships, invest in production, and amplify its national reach.

Learn more about SickFit at: sickfit.us

Second Place: Fundraiser Blankets

Securing the runner-up position was Fundraiser Blankets, a business founded by sisters Barbara Kent and Joanna Serra—a dynamic duo comprising a veteran and a school teacher. Fundraiser Blankets provides customized, high-quality blankets that serve as creative fundraising solutions for schools, organizations, and community groups.

With a focus on meaningful products, Kent and Serra’s business bridges the worlds of entrepreneurship and community impact. Their blankets not only deliver warmth but also provide schools and nonprofits with a sustainable way to raise funds while offering supporters a tangible and cherished item.

The sisters’ unique approach to fundraising resonated with the judges, earning them both recognition and critical funding to help scale their operations. Their dedication to family values, education, and service shines through every blanket produced.

Celebrating Purpose-Driven Innovation

The D.C. Business Shower was more than a competition—it was a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and innovation of the veteran community. Paden Sickles, Barbara Kent, and Joanna Serra represent what happens when passion meets purpose, inspiring others to build businesses that solve problems and uplift communities.

As Warrior Rising continues to support and elevate veteran entrepreneurs, events like Saluting Her Service serve as a powerful reminder that meaningful change starts with people who are willing to serve—again and again.

Congratulations to SickFit and Fundraiser Blankets for their well-deserved wins!