An Evening of Excellence: The 2026 USA Fencing Veterans Dinner
by Bryan Wendell
Updated Jan. 29, 2026 with the names of this year's honorees.
Join the veteran fencing community for a night of celebration in Cincinnati's historic Hall of Mirrors.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — For veteran fencers, the connections forged through competition extend far beyond the strip. On Feb. 14, 2026, that spirit of camaraderie takes center stage at the 2026 USA Fencing Veterans Dinner, an evening dedicated to honoring the athletes who prove that passion for the sport only grows stronger with time.
Set in the elegant Hall of Mirrors at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza during the February NAC, the dinner brings together fencers, friends and supporters for an unforgettable night of recognition and community. It's a chance to toast achievements, reconnect with fellow competitors and celebrate the dedication that defines veteran fencing.
The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Veterans Committee's Vet Fencer of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards. These honors recognize athletes whose excellence on the strip is matched by their commitment to building and strengthening the veteran fencing community nationwide.
This Year's Honorees
Vet 40 Fencer of the Year: Holly Buechel
Vet 50 Fencer of the Year: Julie Seal
Vet 60 Fencer of the Year: Lydia Fabry
Vet 70 Fencer of the Year: Jennette Starks-Faulkner
Vet 80 Fencer of the Year: Frank Hewitt
Lifetime Achievement Award: William "Bill" Walker Jr.
As a reminder, last year's honorees were Adam Maczik (V40), Julie Seal (V50), Robin Pernice (V60), Chris Matt (V60), Joe Streb (V70) and Davis Carvey (V80). Diane Reckling and Joshua Runyan received Lifetime Achievement Awards.
Event Details
Date and Time: Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, 7-10 p.m. ET
Location: Hall of Mirrors at Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, 35 W. Fifth St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Tickets: $100; available here
Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Can't make it to Cincinnati? Consider a gift to the U.S. Fencing Foundation's Veteran Fund, which supports programming and resources for veteran athletes.