Combat-wounded Veteran received payment-free vehicle at Tee It Up for the Troops in Hamburg, New York
HAMBURG, NY – In an emotional and patriotic display of support, the Military Warriors Support Foundation's (MWSF) Transportation4Heroes program in collaboration with Wells Fargo and West Herr Automotive Group, presented retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant John Stanz with a life-changing gift of a payment-free vehicle at the "Tee It Up for the Troops" event held at the Wanakah Country Club in Hamburg, New York, on Monday, September 11th.
John Stanz's journey has been one marked by unwavering courage and commitment. A native of Jamestown, New York, he embarked on his military service in April 2002, stationed at Camp Lejeune. Staff Sergeant Stanz served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa. He was wounded in action not once but twice—first in Iraq in 2004 and later in Afghanistan in 2009.
For his extraordinary bravery and sacrifices while supporting combat operations, John Stanz was honored with two Purple Hearts. His other awards also include the Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor Combat Action Ribbon, an Iraq Campaign Medal, and an Afghanistan Campaign Medal. Today, he resides in Hamburg, New York, with his wife and daughter.
Since 2015, the Military Warriors Support Foundation's Transportation4Heroes program has changed the lives of combat-wounded veterans and Gold Star spouses. This program, in partnership with companies across the United States, has awarded over 160 payment-free vehicles to combat-wounded veterans, turning the page to a new chapter of hope and independence.
But the mission goes beyond vehicles. MWSF extends its support to combat-wounded veterans and Gold Star spouses through a network of family and financial mentorship programs. These initiatives address essential aspects of transitioning to civilian life, including housing, outdoor recreational activities, transportation assistance, and leadership development. Remarkably, through these programs, participants have been able to collectively pay off over $26 million in pre-existing debt, offering a fresh start to those who have given so much.
John Stanz's selection for this life-changing gift was no arbitrary decision. The application process for MWSF's Transportation4Heroes program is meticulously thorough, ensuring that the chosen veteran is the perfect fit for the program's mission. Once chosen, MWSF works closely with the veteran to ensure that the payment-free vehicle serves as a vital stepping stone in their transition from military service to civilian life.
The presentation of a beautiful 2024 Subaru Outback to Staff Sergeant John Stanz was a truly moving moment. Casey Kinser, Executive Vice President at Military Warriors Support Foundation, expressed the sentiment of the day, saying, "It was an incredible day! Coming together with Wells Fargo and West Herr Automotive Group, on Patriot Day, was the perfect way to honor Staff Sergeant John Stanz for his service and sacrifice for our country."
Wells Fargo, renowned as the "Bank of Doing," stands unwavering in its commitment to supporting the financial and transportation needs of military service members, veterans, and their families. Rob Lyles, Auto Market Manager at Wells Fargo, articulated their dedication, stating, "We are proud to sponsor the donation of a new vehicle to Military Warriors Support Foundation's Transportation4Heroes program. This program is dedicated to supporting military service members as they transition back to civilian life and provide payment-free vehicles to combat-wounded veterans and Gold Star families. Together, we thank retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant John Stanz for his service and sacrifice and congratulate him on his new vehicle."
The Military Warriors Support Foundation, founded by Retired LTG Leroy Sisco, has been on a 16-year mission to provide crucial transitional support for combat-wounded heroes, Gold Star spouses, and their families. Their programs, spanning housing and homeownership, recreational activities, transportation assistance, and leadership development, have touched the lives of countless veterans. In addition to homes and vehicles, these families receive invaluable family and financial mentoring, with over $26 million in hero personal debt paid off through the mentorship program.
This heartwarming event serves as a reminder of the profound impact organizations and communities can have when they come together to support their heroes.
For more information about the Military Warriors Support Foundation, please visit militarywarriors.org.
About Wells Fargo Sponsored Vehicle Donation Program:
Wells Fargo initiated its Sponsored Vehicle Donation Program in 2015 to support combat-wounded veterans, Gold Star families, and military- and veteran-related nonprofit organizations. Since its inception, the company has partnered with auto dealerships across the country to donate over 80 vehicles, along with financial mentoring for veterans and their families, valued at over $2.7 million. This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand access to financial health as the Bank of Doing. Learn more about their efforts at [www.wellsfargo.com/impact](https://www.wellsfargo.com/impact).
About the West Herr Automotive Group
Founded in 1950, the West Herr Automotive Group has sold over 1,200,000 vehicles with 39 locations in Erie, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, and Onondaga counties, representing 27 franchises and employing over 3,000 people. The group has received Business First of Buffalo's "Best Places to Work in WNY" and has been named the "Top Workplace" by the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle. It is also honored by the Better Business Bureau. The West Herr Automotive Group is dedicated to absolute excellence in customer service provided by honest, responsible, and respectful individuals. They actively support individual pride, company spirit, and community involvement.