Thompson Island Brewing Co. introduce IPA for MIA soldiers

Thompson Island Head Brewer Justin Leahy developed the recipe for 1776 to raise funds to benefit IPAs for MIAs. | PHOTO COURTESY OF SODEL CONCEPT

REHOBOTH BEACH — To kick off the summer season, Thompson Island Brewing Company in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, will release 1776, a hazy IPA, on May 25 — just in time for Memorial Day.

From the release date until May 30, a portion of 1776’s four-pack sales will benefit Project Recover, which locates and returns soldiers missing in action since World War II.

The initiative was founded by Dr. Mark Moline, a marine biology professor on the University of Delaware’s Lewes campus.

“Breweries create a unique beer of their choice to benefit the organization and raise awareness,” Lauren Bigelow, who oversees the beer program for Thompson Island and its sister brewery, Ocean View Brewing Company, said.

“There are notes of pineapple, peach and coconut — flavors that are perfect for Memorial Day activities,” Justin Leahy, the head brewer, said.

In addition to 1776, Thompson Island will sell a T-shirt to benefit Project Recover. A portion of the 4-pack and shirt sales will benefit the nonprofit.

Southern Delaware Brewing includes its flagship brewpub Thompson Island Brewing Company in Rehoboth Beach, which opened in 2019, and Ocean View Brewing Company in Ocean View, which opened in 2022.

Inspired by Southern Delaware, Thompson Island serves beer and food in a relaxed space with two bars. In addition to the spacious dining room, the brewpub has covered and uncovered outdoor dining areas, including a beer garden, cornhole and Ping-Pong. Since its inception, Thompson Island has won many awards for craft beers, including a gold medal from U.S. Open Beer Championship for its flagship beer, Thompson Island IPA. Visit thompsonislandbrewing.com for more information.