I grew up in a generation where the military didn’t really need me. I was 14 when the Vietnam war ended and by the time we were participating in the Middle East conflicts that started in 1991 and continue today, I was in my 30s.

I have always been thankful that I did not have to risk my life for my country, been thankful that I was not put in harm’s way in order to safeguard our freedoms. But, there is a part of me that is curious as to how I would have responded to that type of situation.

I’ve always been fascinated with the stories our heroes tell and marvel that the common thread of these stories always seems to be the humility and lack of bravado with which they are told.

The people who have been through acts of amazing bravery almost always say, “I don’t know, I guess I just did what I had to do.“

If you would like to hear eight stories from eight amazing men who won the military’s highest distinction, the Medal of Honor, you should come visit us at First Presbyterian Theater from Jan. 2 through the 18th. The stories are moving, and it makes me grateful that there are people who are willing to offer up their lives in defense of our way of life.

Also, if you do come, you are helping veterans. A portion of every ticket purchased will be donated to Fort Wayne’s Shepherd’s House, an organization that helps veterans who have substance abuse problems.

The cast for this extraordinary play includes Chris Ahn, Daniel Bulau, Tony McCarrol, Scott McMeen, Danny Reese, Jeff Roby, Tom Sites, and Dave Sorg.

Beyond Glory previews Thursday, Jan. 2, at 7:30 p.m. (all seats $12—no presale—available at the door).

The play then runs Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. from Jan. 3 through 18, with one Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. on Jan. 12. Tickets are $20 general admission, $18 for patrons age 65+, and free for the first 30 full-time students per performance who make reservations.

All seating is festival seating (first come, first served) and doors will open 30 minutes prior to curtain.

To reserve a ticket call the Box Office at (260) 426-7421 ext. 121; the hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and one hour prior to every performance. Or call another time and leave a message and we will call you back.

If you are deciding to attend a show at the last minute, most nights you can walk up and get a ticket the night of the show.

You can also buy tickets, as well as find out all about FPT, by going to our website at

firstpresbyteriantheater.com.