In the late 18th century, the world witnessed a momentous event as the United States declared its independence, sparking a revolution that championed individual human rights. The creation of the U.S. Constitution and its Bill of Rights etched these ideals into the fabric of the new nation, setting a global precedent for individual freedoms.

Half a world away, Brazil was stirring with its own aspirations for liberty. As the American principles of freedom echoed across continents, Prince Regent Dom Pedro I introduced a constitution in Brazil that enshrined similar rights. This act lit the fuse for Brazil’s quest for independence from Portuguese rule.

Amid the turmoil and hope of this era, a family emerged whose destiny would intertwine with Brazil’s struggle for sovereignty. The story begins with Ferdinand Brandon of Normandy, a forebear whose lineage would become pivotal in Brazil’s history. His descendant, José Joaquim de Lima e Silva, was honored with the Order of Avis, a testament to his dedication to Brazil’s cause. His son, Francisco de Lima e Silva, rose to become Regent of Brazil under Dom Pedro II, guiding the nation through turbulent times. Francisco’s son, Luis Alves de Lima e Silva, known as the Duke of Caxias, became Brazil’s most celebrated General and, to this day, is revered as the Patron of the Brazilian Army.

Luis Alves de Lima e Silva’s military achievements were legendary, but the influence of his family extended beyond his renown. His uncle, João Manuel de Lima e Silva, led with valor as a General in the Farroupilha Revolution. Together, Francisco, João Manuel, and José Joaquim de Lima e Silva II, who held the title of Viscount of Magé, were instrumental in the Brazilian wars of independence. They played a crucial role in liberating Bahia, the final province to shake off Portuguese rule.

This family’s legacy of fighting for freedom persisted through generations. Eduardo de Lima e Silva Hoerhann, made a significant impact in 1926 by securing human rights for the Laklãnõ / Xokleng natives, ensuring their protection and recognition.

Fast forward to 1992, when Tim Omar de Lima e Silva, Eduardo’s grandson embarked on a mission to continue this tradition of advocacy. He founded .38 Firearms School dedicated to teaching how firearms safety and competence is connected to individual rights and freedoms. Under his guidance, this movement flourished, with over hundreds of coaches and thousands of students across Brazil learning to assert their rights and uphold justice.

However, as time went on, Brazil faced increasing challenges in maintaining these freedoms. Tim Omar de Lima e Silva’s son, Tony (Tony Eduardo de Lima e Silva Hoerhann), driven by his family’s enduring legacy, decided to relocate to the United States—the birthplace of the civil rights ideals his family cherishes. Here, he has been replicating his father’s vision, establishing an organization dedicated to coaching Americans to be effective and safe when exercising their Second Amendment right to Keep and Bear Arms, and doing so with the highest level of integrity and personal responsibility.

Early in his life, Tony became an internationally prominent instructor training Law Enforcement, Special Forces, Personal Security, and civilians in shooting, jiu-jitsu-based weapons retention, and combatives. However, the real core of Tony’s mission has been the creation and building of 38America in the homeland of human rights and freedoms, The United States of America. Through 38America, Tony aims to create a movement and a place to train that inspires fellow freedom-lovers to understand and exercise their rights, fostering a culture of liberty and justice.

38America represents the highest level of firearms training surrounded by a culture of the highest level of personal integrity. Its members are and will be vetted to ensure that there is a common understanding of the importance of upholding the U.S. Bill of Rights and creating a ripple effect that could benefit all of humanity. This narrative of perseverance, legacy, and unwavering commitment to human rights, responsibilities, and freedoms stands as a powerful reminder that the quest for freedom is a continuous journey.

Through unity, education, and dedication, Tony and all members of 38America believe they can help create a world where human rights, personal responsibility, and individual freedoms are universally recognized and celebrated, ensuring a brighter future for all. The 38America story, steeped in history and driven by a profound sense of purpose, calls upon each of us to contribute to this noble cause, echoing the timeless truth that freedom must always be defended and cherished.