Home at Last: A 27,000-Mile Journey to North Port

Primary tabs

  • Registration is required for this event.
  • Registration will open on April 29, 2026 @ 8:30am.

Program Description

They sold their home, cashed in their savings, and spent 280 days living in a converted FedEx truck-- all to collect the stories of America's heroes. Now, Kevin and Lauren Wallace have brought their mission home to North Port.

Join us at the North Port Library for an unforgettable evening as the authors of Van of Valor and A Wingman for Miss Universe share the stories behind their extraordinary journey. From chance encounters in VFW halls to emotional interviews with Gold Star families, from the Vietnam jungle to the deserts of Afghanistan, Kevin and Lauren traveled 27,000 miles to ensure that the sacrifices of our service members are never forgotten.

This multimedia presentation will take you inside their 280-day odyssey, introduce you to some of the heroes they met along the way, and celebrate the city that gave their mission a permanent home. Following the presentation, stay for a Q&A session and book signing.

Whether you've seen the Van of Valor around town or are hearing about it for the first time, this evening promises to be a powerful testament to the courage, resilience, and gratitude that binds our community together.

Free and open to the public. Books available for purchase.