Invicta Gala Returns to Support Veterans and First Responders

Annual event in Dallas to raise funds for programs improving health and well-being of those who have sacrificed for others.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 6:34pm

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The annual Invicta Gala will take place on April 18, 2026 at the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas, bringing together community leaders, businesses, and supporters to honor service and raise critical support for programs that improve the health and well-being of veterans and first responders. The event will feature keynote speaker Nicola 'Nick' Gismondi, a retired U.S. Air Force officer, and Master Gunnery Sergeant Christopher L. May (Ret.) as Master of Ceremonies. Hosted by The INVICTA Project, the gala aims to raise over $400,000 to expand services and treatment opportunities for those who have served.

Why it matters

The Invicta Gala is the flagship fundraising event for The INVICTA Project, an organization that supports veterans and first responders experiencing long-term effects of traumatic brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, chronic pain, and other service-related conditions. The event helps raise critical funds to provide advanced diagnostics, multidisciplinary care, and personalized treatment plans to those in need.

The details

The 2026 Invicta Gala is expected to welcome approximately 450 attendees, building on last year's event which drew more than 400 guests and raised $283,000. Organizers aim to surpass that success by raising over $400,000 to expand services and treatment opportunities. The INVICTA Project has demonstrated measurable impact, serving 36 participants in 2025 alone and investing more than $620,000 in participant care since the program's inception.

  • The Invicta Gala will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
  • Last year's event was held in 2025 and drew over 400 guests, raising $283,000.

The players

Nicola 'Nick' Gismondi

A retired U.S. Air Force officer whose 30-year military career included service as an F-15 fighter pilot and Special Operations leader. He will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 Invicta Gala.

Master Gunnery Sergeant Christopher L. May (Ret.)

A 24-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in elite reconnaissance and special operations units. He will serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the 2026 Invicta Gala.

The INVICTA Project

An organization that supports veterans and first responders through programs focused on neurological health, physical recovery, and long-term resilience. They are hosting the Invicta Gala.

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What’s next

Sponsorship opportunities and table reservations for the 2026 Invicta Gala are now available.

The takeaway

The Invicta Gala is an important annual event that brings the community together to honor the service of veterans and first responders, while also raising critical funds to support programs that improve their health and well-being after years of sacrifice.