Throughout this month, we’ve been running a Veteran’s Day campaign called Veterans & Vehicles. Our goal for this effort was to tap into the automotive aftermarket and surrounding niches to recognize the brave men and women for their sacrifices and triumphs as they defend our country. We’re honored to be a part of this industry and all the veterans who have helped make it what it is today. Here’s a quick recap of our Veteran’s Day features.

Pro Carwashing & Detailing

Grace For Vets by Camille Renner
Every year on Nov. 11, parades are seen marching down city streets, orchestras and bands are heard playing God Bless America and, since 2003, active-duty military personnel and veterans receive free carwashes all around the country. These complimentary washes are largely thanks to the impressive organizational efforts of Grace For Vets, a veteran-founded organization that seeks to honor those who currently serve or have served in the U.S. military.

AftermarketNews

Career Resources for Veterans by Amy Antenora
For U.S. Military Veterans returning to civilian life can be a major adjustment, fraught with challenges, including physical, psychological and financial burdens. Within the automotive aftermarket, many organizations recognize this and seek to provide support through various programs. Beyond this, there are a number of companies both within and outside the automotive aftermarket that recognize the unique and valuable skillsets that military veterans can offer in the civilian workforce thanks to their training, sense of loyalty and technical expertise, and seek to actively recruit these veterans for employment and franchise opportunities.

BodyShop Business

On a Mission by Jason Stahl
Service King made it their mission to hire 500 military veterans six years ago and they are proud to say they’ve surpassed that goal. When U.S. Army veteran Adam Aiello was hired in from Service King’s Mission to Hire program, he became a “rock star” in only 12 weeks, says Lakeitria Luter, director of Diversity and External Relations for Service King Collision Repair Centers.

Counterman

Heroes Off the Battlefield by Josh Cable
Veterans can be heroes off the battlefield too. The brave men and women who serve in the U.S. military are accustomed to facing and overcoming adversity during their service. For many veterans and service members, however, transitioning back into civilian life can present a new set of challenges.

ShopOwner

Homecoming Help for Veterans by Doug Kaufman
While in the service, soldiers, sailors, and airmen are tasked with maintaining and repairing tanks, trucks, planes and whatever else is stored at Area 51. But, as they say, sometimes coming home is the hardest part – not only from an emotional standpoint but also on an economic and employment level, not to mention the work getting required industry certifications.

Brake & Front End

Heroes Then and Now by Andrew Markel
Veterans have always played a critical role in the auto care industry at all levels. Their contributions on the battlefield and in the bays helped to build the industry we know today.

Curated by Melissa Kollar.