Photo © Courtesy of Visit Henry County
With more than nine active military institutions within a four-hour drive of Metro Atlanta, it is no surprise that many veterans chose Henry County, Georgia, after retirement. For these men and women, service does not end when the uniform comes off—it simply takes on a new form. Across Henry County, veterans are channeling their experiences into businesses and organizations that welcome residents and visitors alike. These six veterans and veteran organizations demonstrate how their commitment to service continues in Henry County through hospitality, tourism, and community engagement.
A CULINARY MISSION IN LOCUST GROVE
A former grenade instructor and 20-year Army veteran may not seem like the most obvious candidate to craft delicate crepes and giant, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls, but Chef Paul Lewis defies expectations.
During the final years of his military career, Chef Paul regularly made the drive from Fort Benning in Columbus to attend the Art Institute of Atlanta, where he trained in the culinary arts. After retiring from the Army, he completed his formal training and launched a new career in the kitchen, serving as head chef in settings ranging from higher education institutions to a fine dining restaurant. His experience ultimately inspired him to open a more casual breakfast spot, Southern Fusion Dining, that emphasizes high-quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation.
Located in Locust Grove, Southern Fusion Dining is beloved for its elevated takes on Southern classics, including biscuits and gravy, pepper jack shrimp and grits, fluffy cinnamon rolls, and other comfort-forward dishes that keep guests coming back for more.
BUILDING A BURGER LEGACY IN STOCKBRIDGE
Marc Johnson also seamlessly transformed his military experience into restaurant success. While serving as a cook in the U.S. Army, Johnson developed a strong foundation in inventory management, operational efficiency, and overseeing civilian contractors. After retiring from military service, he carried those skills into the restaurant industry, managing the original Hamburger Mike’s location in Stockbridge and guiding its growth into multiple locations. That success ultimately led Marc and his wife, LeAnna, to assume ownership of the original restaurant.
Today, Hamburger Mike’s remains a beloved destination for burger enthusiasts and for guests seeking inventive meatless options that never compromise on flavor.
TELLING SOLDIERS’ STORIES IN MCDONOUGH
When retired Command Sergeant Major Jim Joyce was asked to curate a military museum inside a former agricultural building, the challenge was significant. Alongside another retired service member, Joyce approached the task with a clear guiding philosophy: stories and artifacts should be displayed reverently, accurately, and with a strong emphasis on the individual soldier.
This philosophy became the cornerstone of the Heritage Park Veterans Museum. When the museum opened in 2010, it featured just five glass display cases, nine mannequins, and 15 uniforms. Today, the collection has grown to more than 20,000 items, largely due to donations from service members and families who recognize the museum’s deeply personal storytelling approach.
The museum is free to the public and open six days a week. Guests can explore at their own pace or request a guided tour led by veteran volunteers for a more immersive experience.
PRESERVING AVIATION HISTORY IN HAMPTON
For a group of veterans, honoring the legacy of Army aviation became a calling. In 1997, they established the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation and Flying Museum, an organization largely operated by military veteran volunteers.
The foundation acquires, restores, maintains, and flies Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey and AH-1 Cobra helicopters. Visitors can explore aviation history through free scheduled hangar tours or book an unforgettable seat during public helicopter ride days at their legacy chapter in Hampton.
Beyond the thrill of flight, guests have the rare opportunity to speak directly with veterans who once served aboard the same aircraft. The foundation also educates the public through static displays, school group programs, and airshow appearances throughout the year.
TAKING TO THE SKIES AGAIN
Another retired military pilot, Freddie Briggs Jr., has turned his aviation background into an experience that offers a new perspective on Henry County. Through Tier-1 Helicopters, Briggs primarily provides helicopter pilot training, but the company also offers scenic helicopter tours to the public.
From the air, guests can spot wellknown film locations, enjoy sweeping views of Henry County, or head north to admire the Atlanta skyline at sunset. Tours depart from Atlanta Speedway Airport and accommodate up to three passengers per flight, making for an intimate and unforgettable experience.
LEADING A REVOLUTION ON THE FIELD
For Eric Morrison, military leadership skills transitioned naturally into managing and growing a sports organization. As owner of Georgia Revolution FC, Morrison oversees this semi-professional soccer club, competing in the United Premier Soccer League, the fourth tier of the U.S. Soccer pyramid.
Since launching their inaugural Henry County season in 2017, the organization has expanded to include additional academies, youth camps, and free after-school soccer programs. Fans can catch home matches at Old Warhawk Stadium in McDonough from early spring through early summer.
CONTINUING THE MISSION THROUGH HOSPITALITY
Together, these veterans and organizations offer far more than customer service. They create meals and experiences that visitors carry with them long after their visit ends. Their businesses strengthen Henry County’s sense of place while honoring the values instilled through military service.
From the breakfast table to the soccer pitch and from museum halls to helicopter skies, veteran-owned businesses and organizations continue to shape Henry County as a welcoming destination. These stories are just a glimpse of the many veterans who remain committed to making Henry County, Georgia, a better place to live, work, and explore, proving that service to others never truly ends—it simply evolves.
Learn more about Henry County events, activities, and restaurants at VisitHenryCountyGeorgia.com.
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Located 30 minutes south of downtown Atlanta on I-75, Henry County is home to unforgettable attractions – helicopter rides in military aircraft, concerts at the amphitheater, boutique and bargain shopping – and plenty of homegrown fun.