All Nominees

As a proud U.S. veteran, I am entering this contest because reliable transportation is vital for my daily responsibilities, including medical appointments, work, and supporting my family. Like many veterans, I’ve faced challenges transitioning to civilian life, and a dependable vehicle would ease the burden and open new opportunities. I’ve always strived to serve others—with integrity and resilience—and I would use this gift not only for personal stability but to continue giving back to my community. Being chosen would be an incredible honor and a life-changing step forward.

My grandfather, Joseph Morgante, is a marine corps veteran. He served from 1959 to 1966. I owe everything to him. He is my best friend and favorite person. He raised and supportive seven children, and now is a proud grandfather of 18 and great grandfather of 6. He lives both here and in Cape Coral, FL. The car he currently uses here is old and slowly breaking. The AC system just broke on Memorial Day. The reason I think he is deserving of this nomination is because he has done everything for everyone else and asks for nothing in return. It would be the highest honor for him to be gifted a new car, as it’s something he would never advocate for himself.

He is a Desert Storm Veteran and also has a VA disability for PTSD. He has not worked because of his PTSD and could use a new car to get around and make it to his appointments.

I have severed in the military for 17 years until I was medically discharged due to a jor surgery. During my time in the military I served as a chaplain and have 3 combat deployments. I was wounded during my last deployment and awarded the purple heart. I later married a wonderful Air Force veteran who passed of cancer in 2022. I was her full-time care giver until she passed of breast cancer. I took a year to rediscover who I was going to be and decided that I wanted to continue serving the military population. Therefore, I decided to find a job in federal service, and was successful at doing so. Now I serve as a civilian federal worker at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station where I serve the Airman of the 914th Air Refueling Wing

Daniel was in the service and had gone off to war, he served his time. He is a husband and father also he never asks for anything. I have the utmost respect for him. He would help anyone out if he could.

Todd puts his family first above all else, always has done everything he could to bring food and shelter for his loved ones. He is now 100% disabled and relies solely on his government assistance to support his family. He has numerous appointments to attend every week and needs reliable transportation to make it to the V.A. He is driving an aging sedan that sits low to the ground, which hurts his spine and knees when getting into and out of the car. He is in great pain and unable to acquire a better vehicle due to his fixed income.

Todd is my step dad but is the only father figure I’ve ever known! He is the hardest working person I know but he has been through a lot. He is 100% disable due to service connected injuries. He was employed by the Buffalo VA but had to medically retire due to his disability. He is unable to work as of now and he is having to drive up to the Buffalo VA at minimum 4 days a week for his appointments and general upkeep. It is about a 50 minute ride from where he is living and the car he currently has is over 10 years old, has a ton of miles and is very hard for him to get in and out of since it’s so close to the ground. Todd would be so appreciative of a vehicle for vets car and it’s something he would never take for granted. Thank you for reading.

My father sgt major Andrew Lennox did almost 40years serving this country in the army National guard full time military he sacrificed family time to keep this country safe he deserves to be recognized for all his hard work and dedication to this great country

This Vet has been serving the Veteran community for 20 plus years, returning to school to learn about mental health and substance abuse. This Vet worked at various sites in the community and worked solely with homeless Vets for housing, employment and education opportunities. Not having a reliable vehicle limits what more can be done.

I have served my nation and community for almost 30 years. My family is in need of a new vehicle as I near retirement.

Pat is my supervisor at work and his military training has made him a great great great supervisor. He’s actually my favorite supervisor.

Shannon is my mother and her service in the Marines (2002-2006) inspired me to also serve amongst our ranks. I did follow in a different path going army but still she’s made out to be a really good mother and a great inspiration for me to always do better. After she got out she had some hardships with civilian employment in the job field she went to school for. Now she’s doing good and always tried to give me and my younger sister great opportunities for a good outlook in life. I’m proud to now wear a uniform that reflects the ways that my mother paved the way for before me.

She has worked full time put herself through school to complete RN and now is still going to school and working full time to get her Nurse Practitioner.

Graduated high school a year early. Enlisted in Marines and served 5 years so he could get help with paying for college. While in the Marines he volunteered for some deployments. Worked while going to college. Graduated college as an Accountant and just went out on his own and started his own business. Married and now has a daughter.

This man is my world and rock. He always puts others first and he is the man’s that would give his last shirt off his back to help someone in need. Never less he is driving a truck that won’t pass inspection and I fear is no longer safe but his life style of giving everything he has away has put himself in a situation of doing the best with what he has. Please pick him and give this man a vehicle that would be life saving - literally!!

William is a hard working, responsible, and caring man. He treats his woman right and is committed to what's best for him and her in life. He loves adventure and is always working to make sure others are having the best time of their lives. No matter the situation. His truck is waning, yet he goes to extremes to repair (himself) any ill functionings of this vehicle. A proud and honor-heavy American, William is an outstanding nominee for this event!

I am nominating my husband Bobby because of what he has overcome and accomplished in the last few years. He always struggles with his PTSD daily, yet still wakes up with a smile and caring attitude everyday. He is always helping people in need with never asking for anything in return. I would like him to be blessed just once with something he can call his own and I know this will surely be something he is grateful for

My husband is a newer recruit starting in 2019 and we have 2 little kids when he started and a 2004 dodge truck. He made the career change when he got laid off from his previous employer of 18 years of service. When he started this new position he was stationed at Comstock NY and we live in the Buffalo area that was a 5.5 hour drive to and from work. Needless to say we have been through 3 different used cars as they were all very old as that's all we could afford and do to the amount of time traveling back and forth to see his family things kept breaking. He's a good man and does what he needs to, to support his family even if that means weeks away from us. I believe he would be an excellent nominee for this great opportunity that you are offering.

I am nominating my husband, Todd Johnston. Todd served in the USAF for approximately 8 1/2 years. After serving, he was recently an employee at the Buffalo VA Hospital. He always wanted to give back and to help fellow veterans so he thought working at the VA would be a great place to be. Unfortunately, Todd has several medical conditions/injuries which are all service connected. He is a 100% disabled veteran, permanent & total. For the last 10 years, he has battled through several back & knee surgeries. In September of 2023, the VA medically retired him, saying they could no longer make appropriate accommodations for him to continue working there. Since then, he has been fighting SSDI. We currently have one vehicle, a 2012 Ford Fusion, which is extremely difficult for him to get in and out of. I drive him 2-3 days a week, from Wilson to Buffalo for his appointments at the VA. Todd would do anything he could for his family/friends, a blessing of a new car would be life changing for him.

Eric is a good friend of mine and a disabled army vet who doesn't get much my his disability from the army. A good friend who's always there to help when he can. And would like to see him in a new truck from serving our country

I have known Sherese Andrews for over 10 years and she emplifies selflessness. One of the military core values. The last year has been hard on her as due to a natural disaster she lost her vehicle. She is a disabled vet who comes a lineage of military service as her dad was a WWII veteran and her son is joining the military after he graduated high school.

Im nominating Charles because he gives his all 💯 to provide for our family regardless of the conditions currently inside his workplace. He originally took this when we found out we were expecting so could have better health benefits and a reliable income. During the strike he continued to provide, and although conditions are not better he continues to go. He’s respected by coworkers, higher ups, and incarcerated individuals because of his level of professionalism and respect for those there.

Donna is a RN who worked at ECMC for many years and now volunteers in a clinic at Friends of Night People which gives care to the poor and undomiciled and provides a clinical experience for UB medical students. Donna has no desire to keep any prize, should she win. Her goal is to donate any prize to a nonprofit organization.

He saved my sister Sara's Walmsley so life

This man has served our country at war time and has dedicated good life to helping anyone in need. This man says I help people because my reward in not here on earth. He is the most selfless person I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting. He lives a life to serve people. This is a truly truly remarkable man. He is 78 and still working he can barely make it week to week. But he keeps pushing through. Last year he was hit by a drunk driver. His truck was ruined. He pushes through with severe back damage from the drunk driver. The car he drives now is 2013. This man deserves recognition but is too humble, too recognize himself and his self less acts of pure kindness. He lost his oldest son to suicide. And he still keeps his faith. Please pray peace stays in him. Which by the way, anyone can see his faithful light after just speaking to this truly wonderful man. Joe is made in the image of God. I am honored to know him.

It is my extreme pleasure and honor to nominate my brother Todd Johnston. Todd proudly served in the United States Air Force and worked at the VA Hospital until his service connected injuries forced him to retire early. Todd has had three back surgeries with fusion and a cage, a left knee replacement and surgery on his right knee. Todd struggles with pain every day that will never go away with any surgery and yet manages to get through with a smile. Todd is loving husband to his beautiful wife Heather and very proud father of his two children Caitlyn and Tyler. Todd always puts his family and friends first. Whenever he finds out someone is in need of help, Todd is the first one to help. He had a DJ service that helped earn some income for his family but due to his injuries had to stop most of his jobs due to the weight of the equipment. But won’t let it stop him from donating his time and what little he has to give. I strongly believe my brother is deserving of this.

Shannon selflessly gives of her time volunteering for veterans across New York State. She assists with benefit claims for her fellow veterans and their survivors. If she finds a veteran in need she is going to do everything she can to help them. Shannon is a combat service connected disabled veteran from Desert Storm. She has put countless miles on her personal car traveling around the state to assist veterans. Shannon is easy to spot because of her service dog Elsa. She is passionate about serving her fellow veterans and their families. She will give up personal time to help. Shannon also focuses on women veterans and their stories of service through the Military Women’s Memorial, which she is a volunteer state ambassador. She deserves this honor because she asks for nothing and try’s to shine the light of other veterans and volunteers instead of herself.

Jim is a Desert Storm veteran, father, husband and grandfather. When I think of Jim, I think of a selfless human being. The kind of guy that would give you the shirt off his back, no matter what the circumstances are. He is loved and cherished by so many around him due to the overwhelming gratitude and kindness that he shows to people because that’s how his father raised him. Jim has been through a lot of loss in his life. Within a decade, he lost his father to cancer. He then lost his grandfather to a heart attack, and both of his brothers also sadly passed away unexpectedly. Despite this heartache and loss, Jim always has remained true to himself. Kept up the spirits of the folks around him and provided a sense of comfort; even while hiding the true pain he continues to endure to this day. If there is one thing, this man knows how to do, it is battling adversity and come out a stronger man. That is not only the definition of a veteran, but the definition of a superhero in my opinion.

Jim is a veteran of Desert Storm. He selflessly puts others needs above his own. He is on the board of the Veterans Employee Group (via his employer) and organizes and facilitates many volunteer events involving veterans in the community. These events include: Wreaths Across America, volunteering at local food pantries and maintaining the ships at the Naval Park. Most recently, Jim was a Guardian on the Buffalo Honor Flight. He was paired with a Vietnam veteran and described their experience as “a welcome home our veterans would never forget.” In 2022, Jim was in a car accident. Sadly, a truck ran a red light and totaled his van. As the interest rates and prices of vehicles increase, his new van payment more than doubled. He gives so much and could use a break. I’d like to nominate my husband. He truly is my hero!

He belong to the American Legion Gabriel Rodriguez Post 1928. He has work with the Buffalo community, He voluntee at the Freedom Lounge at the airport for the veteran and their family. He volunteers service for the community. Honorable service.

I am nominating Devin Foltyniak for his service to our great country, Devin has served our Army for 8 years and has done a lot of great things in the service including winning “Humanitarian awards” and teaching other service members. Devin is home and is now a civilians and needs our help with a new vehicle to get him and his family around and to get him to his new job outside the military to start his new life

Rob is always the first one to help anyone in need. He has been helping me take care of my disabled father for the past 7 yrs. and now he is the primary care giver taking care of my mother who had a massive stroke in February. My mother lives with us now and he never complained once. He does everything that needs to be done putting his own daily pain aside. He was wounded during a rocket blast while in Afghanistan in 2010. Although he doesn't have money or fancy things to offer, he offers himself too care for others! Just learned today that his vehicle will not pass inspection because the under carriage is rotted out. I, also a veteran could not see life without his generous and caring nature. He was adopted and lost his own adopted mother to covid and soon after lost his bio-mom, yet he takes care of my mother like her was her own son. He is my second husband, who came into my life and helped raise my three children as if they were his own the past thirteen years. He's irreplaceable.

My wife is a 3rd generation female Marine of the 3 in US history who served with this status / honor. "Once a Marine, always a Marine." She's non-stop - there is no stopping her! She thinks long range, has managed to plan our whole life ahead-of-time and single-handedly makes our family seem a veritable matriarchy despite 4 brothers jostling for seniority. She makes it clear to anyone she meets that she served with honor and distinction and perpetuates these values straight through from our children to distant cousins who are here to bear her legacy, reiterating her colorful stories as only she can tell them, verbatim and with a certain distinction. She bears this veritable immortality approaching our 2nd anniversary which makes her all the more special to me and to all who have met her. - Semper Fi, Marine!

My husband is a disabled Navy veteran. He came into our family and immediately took care of my 24 y o autistic and legally blind daughter. He is amazing with my 18 f and 16 m kiddos who s dad died last year of cancer. In February he had the most dangerous surgery the VA does (according to his doctors) an aortic aneurysm fix. 3 weeks later he went for a walk and collapsed. He was taken back to VA where they did 7 CT scans and 2 mri and a pet scan. He has cancer behind his nose and in his lungs. The VA and Roswell are going to try to treat him but after a biopsy of behind the nose ... if the 2 nodules in his lungs match, it's stage 4. He is the best step dad ever. I cant imagine losing him.

Shatara is the true meaning of a soldier she is selfless giving helping and truly carry. Not only did shatara serve as a soldier in the US Army she continues her service to this day as an employee of the state of New York with the office for people with developmental disabilities as a direct support assistant working and assisting people with developmental disabilities. We have recently in the past 4 months had three deaths in the family two of them occurring days apart and shatara took the lead on bringing the family together and making arrangements. Shatara currently does not have a vehicle and I believe she truly deserves this honor.

This man has worked so hard to help the community. He was a teacher for a decade and then became a firefighter last year. He graduated in the top 10% of the academy, and hasn't missed a day of work. He's saved lives, fought fires, and helped the City of Buffalo. He's experiencing car problems and drives an old Pontiac. The driveshaft broke and the AWD car is now FWD. It runs terribly. It needs so much work, and since he was just hired, he can't afford anything else right now. I'm scared for his safety- he has to be at work no matter what, and now his car can't handle the snow or rain, it's only a matter of time before something bad could happen. Please give this man the reward he deserves and help him have a car that can ensure he's able to help the community. Thank you!

He always goes above and beyond for everyone and anyone . He would and has protected and taken in people when they needed. Always the first to step up when times get challenging. Always says "I'll figure it out" puts others first always sometimes to a fault. Very loving and caring about his fellow vets who haven't been as lucky, human rights, as well as speaking out for his Native families and sovereignty as well as all children of violence of all kinds. I couldn't think of another person more deserving than my husband. Go bills

Kathy is a army veteran and she is my mom. I nominate her because she fulfilled her duty as a single mom of 2 kids before she re united with her high school sweetheart. She also continues to help fellow veterans by volunteering at the va and she also sends holiday cards and birthday cards to the veteran nursing home in Batavia. She recently lost her soul mate a marine veteran to mds and leukemia last year. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

My husband is the rock of our family and a wonderful citizen of this great nation. He has always been selfless for his country and family, and deserves something back.

Aaron has lived a life of service. He served in the army for 6 years including serving at 9/11 right after the attack. He then served as a police officer for 18 years before breaking his back and being forced to retire. Rather than living in retirement he then enrolled in seminary and just graduated with his masters in 2025 and being called to serve 3 churches.

I am nominating my brother because he deserves a new vehicle. He works crazy hours and has his 2 girls almost full time his truck keeps breaking down and he cant afford a new vehicle so he keeps fixing it. He served and was honorably discharged. He is a lifetime resident of NY aside from being overseas he currently resides in chili ny and this would be the best thing to give him. I am so proud of my brother everyday.

Why? Because every day for 25 years he left the house knowing he may not return .He was a detective and on the ERT team(swat).He rarely ever missed work, never took vacations.There were times he would wake up for a raid at 1am come home by 3 ,fall asleep and get called again an hour later and he would still wake up for work at 9 am and do a full shift.He would run around between work and getting his son to all of his sports games and practices. Never missed an opportunity to be involved in his sons school whether it was field trips or volunteering for events ( all of them.The things he has seen would make anyone have nightmares.Yet he still holds a gentle demeanor and would do anything for his family. He would work on holidays when he was single so men with families could enjoy the holidays with their little ones. When I asked him at a concert(what would you do if shots broke out?)his answr, get me to safety and run towards the shooter!!He would give up his life for strangers.

Good evening. I'm writing you on behalf of my father in law, Jose R. Garcia. My wife, his daughter, Raquel and I moved in about a year and a half ago to take care of him. His wife, not my wife's mother, moved out at that time as she was battling her own illness. That left us to take care of him. She stopped giving him his meds, taking him to doctor visits, no longer kept up with the house, the refrigerator went out, then the water heater was leaking water and did several thousand dollars of damages to the garage and his closet and bathroom. Animals had gotten into the roof and the roof as leaking. Then on top of that he's been with an ailing back, that's limited him to only being able to stand for a brief second or so, just enough to get up and out of his wheel chair to the bed and back. We change him, feed him bathe him do everything for him. Much of our own money we used for the house repairs, including a new AC system as well. It just never ends, now the washer and dryer.

If you ask anyone that is part of the Machias Volunteer Fire Department, they will tell you that Josh is the most dependable and humble person to work beside. He spends countless hours away from his family and friends to help serve his community (and surrounding communities) without ever asking for anything in return just to make sure the members of our town are safe.You need him, he’s there without question and he shows up willing to do whatever tasks needs to be done. Josh recently was named “Firefighter of the year” and received and award for being one of the top 10 responders in his department. Josh takes any ambulance call that he can and numerous patients request him because he’s patient and kind. If you ever met him, you would never forget him. He’s someone that everyone looks up to and he’s happy to teach anyone who is willing to learn. He’s a true inspiration to our community and his children and deserves to have something good happen to him!

I am nominating Daniel because he has worked tirelessly as a registered nurse for over 25 years. Daniel began his career caring for the elderly in a nursing home before moving onto the Veterans Hospital of Buffalo. He has been caring for our American Heroes for the past twenty years. Dan has maintained his position as a floor nurse by choice because he truly enjoys providing hands on care. Hie preserved through the COVID-19 pandemic with unwavering dedication. He has been recognized by his peers and administrators for his commitment and stellar care of his patients. His quick decision making, extensive knowledge, and skill set has saved lives of our veterans off the battlefield . Dan is the definition of putting everyone else first. He is a dedicated father which is understatement, and devoted husband. Dan has been driving a used ram 1500. The engine light will go on and go off while driving. This is the vehicle we use for our family camping trips. Please consider Dan! He deserves it!

Chuck is a great friend. He goes out of his way to help others even with his ptsd problems. Chuck loves to help the community and children. Chuck also belongs to the local vfw and volunteers for community events. He puts others above himself. All around great human the area and helps he can.

He has been in desert storm and has been disabled due to his service and tours. A new vehicle would help mentally and financially

Patrick has had a stroke that he miraculously recovered from. His insurance would not cover therapy after he was released from the hospital leaving him unable to fully recover. Patrick now needs a scooter to get around when going to stores or appointments. Patrick’s wife currently has a Kia Soul in which the scooter does not fit leaving Patrick in pain constantly to have to walk far distances. They have been unable to pay for the monthly payment of car every month and Patrick was an EMT. Patrick also was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration over 10 years ago leaving him almost blind.

My husband is the most selfless person I have ever met, he sacrificed so much in the Army for his country. He not only done deployments to Iraq but the injuries he sustained physically and mentally will fallow him for the rest of his life. He has overcome addiction from all the pain medication he was put in just to get him through the day and now he has been clean 8 years. Through all of his trials he never thinks of his self, or does anything for his self and when he found the lord his resolve help others grew even deeper. I couldn’t list all the ways I feel he should be nominated in a thousand characters, I would need 10,000 to do so.

Mark is my husband & one of the toughest, most incredible people I know. We are high school sweethearts & joined the Marines together in 1998, & we both served 8 years with 3rd Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division out of Buffalo, NY. Mark served as an Infantryman & our Battalion was deployed to Iraq in Jan 2005. During that tour our Battalion had 48 brothers KIA & hundreds of casualties, including Mark who was blown up by an IED blast in Hit, Iraq, August 26, 2005. He died twice & came back but without his right arm & leg because the shrapnel wounds were so severe that they were amputated. He literally had an arm & leg in the grave, but his fight for life was stronger than deaths grip. It took a year of rehabilitation, learning to walk again with a prosthetic leg until we could return home from Bethesda, MD & Walter Reed. He continues to amaze me everyday with how he handles life's struggles. He's an excellent father, husband & friend & enjoys hunting, cooking & the farm life.

Jae has dedicated a significant portion of his life to mental health. In 2022, he joined the specialized unit, the Behavioral Health Team, where he is passionate about serving the entire Buffalo community. To further his mission of reaching individuals in mental health crisis, he has returned to school to obtain a degree in psychology. His ultimate goal is to contribute to creating a safer and healthier Buffalo.

He recently lost his truck due to a accident. He has dedicated himself to serving is country for the last 11 years. He has also for the past 2 years served as a emt saving several lives in the process. He's a big family man and works alot with his hands helping around the house and he could use the truck to continue to help his family and the community.

Some people talk about service, and others just serve. I would like to nominate Buffalo Police Officer, Amy Veteran, Sergeant Jeremias Robles. After honorably serving 8 years as a Combat Medic, he returned home and continued to protect and serve as a police officer. What I admire most Jeremias is not just his courage, but his commitment to doing the right thing. He’s faced the chaos of war and the challenges of the streets with the same calm, steady presence that makes you feel safe just by standing beside him. Jeremias is the kind of person who runs toward trouble to keep others safe. Who carries the weight of service with quiet dignity. What makes this story even more special is that I once had the privilege of being his teacher. I watched him grow into the kind of young person you just knew would make a difference. But somewhere along the way, the roles quietly reversed because now he me teaches about courage, loyalty, and strength.

Ever since she was young she wanted to help people, she takes every call with her heart to help them the best she can. She loves being in this career path. She has put herself thru school with no help and managed to keep one of the highest grades and work. She maintains dignity and respect for everyone she meets. She is one person I would want to take care of me if something happened.

James served the Town of Hamburg bravely until he was injured on duty and had to retire on a disability. He was also a Field Training Officer and helped many new recruits get a strong foundation for service over the years. He's a good man and a great public servant. He served several other departments before the Town.

I am nominating Jake, my son. I feel he is most deserving of this as he has pushed so hard these past few years to become the best first responders he can be. Over the past 2 years he has been going to auto tech school full time and working all while volunteering at his fire department and going to 2 firefighter training courses as well as attending an EMT course to be able to help more on a call. I have never seen a more determined, passionate person more willing to do anything and everything he possibly can. Jake is never one to give up. Despite some obstacles he had to deal with during this time, he never gave up and gave it his all. I am so proud of him!

Army veteran who worked for Buffalo Police Dept as a detective, SWAT team, and US Marshal. Recently retired. Overcame a learning disability to have a great career in law enforcement. Is a wonderful person who does what he can to help others.

I’m nominating my wife, Jessica Miller, a devoted police officer, caregiver, and everyday hero. Jessica has spent her life protecting and uplifting others—both in uniform and out. Her dedication to service is unmatched, whether she’s responding to emergencies, mentoring youth, or checking in on elderly veterans in our community who rely on her kindness and consistency. She often goes out of her way on her own time to make sure they’re cared for and never forgotten. At home, Jessica is the heart of our family—balancing the demands of her job with endless love and strength. A new car would help her continue this important work and support our family’s busy life. She never seeks recognition, but her impact is felt by everyone she meets. Jessica is selfless, strong, and exactly the kind of person this honor was meant for.

I’m nominating my husband, William Miller, a dedicated first responder, father, mentor, and true community hero. William has spent his life serving others—on duty and off. He’s not only a lifesaver in emergencies but also a steady guide for youth, coaching, mentoring, and encouraging them to build better futures. His influence stretches across generations and neighborhoods. At home, he’s the heart of our big, blended family, always present despite long, exhausting shifts. A new car would help us stay connected as a family and allow him to continue his community work with reliability. William never asks for recognition—but his impact is undeniable. He gives without hesitation, leads with quiet strength, and makes the lives of those around him better every single day. He is a hero in every sense of the word.

Blake Ehmke is the most deserving man I can think of to win a new vehicle. He is hard working and always doing for others. He doesn't ever make a big deal of helping people, but it's in the little things- holding doors for little old ladies, rescuing cars stuck in a snowbank, among so many instances. Blake is generous to a fault, and winning a new car would only help him to do more. Whether that be through our church or as a regular person Blake would do wonderful things for our community if he won a car.

I served 33 years in the air force. No ever takes the spouse into consideration. We got married in 1987, I went into the air force at that time. After taking care of the family, house, kids and everything else while i was gone ,she has been through alot! I was deployed 6 times to the middle east with many more TDYs. She has always stood behind me. My longest deployment was 1 year!. So this is the reason I would like to nominate my wife. She served as much as I did!!

Serenity is a dedicated worker heeding to a need no one else could fulfill in an emergent situation and sacrifices her own time and family to make sure those in need can get the best care, given with a whole heart.

I'm nominating myself and in need of a vehicle to transport myself to and from va clinics and private hospitals appointments. Owning my own vehicle will enable me not to depend constantly in the government establishment and also will give me another way to find comfort in decompressing from my war injuries. Please help me achieve this.

Scott is a 2 tour combat veteran in Desert Storm, a first responder at ground zero on 9/11 and has been a volunteer firefighter in the WNY area for 30 years. Scott has been actively involved in veteran issues, including the recently completed Vetrans Memorial in Hartland, NY. Scott has been treated for lung cancer, believed to be related to either exposure to toxic smoke from burning pits in Desert Storm or toxic dust at ground zero in NYC. Scott has always given everything for service to our country and community.

Seth has fought over seas on multiple tours during the height of the war. After returning home, he battled with untreated ptsd and other non life threatening injuries. He currently still serves our military in the Army Reserves. He always puts his county before himself or anyone else. He is the true definition of a man who would put his life on the line for the better of our nation.

David Delcarlo reeks of american braun. Dave has the heart of a lion. He is an ex marine and rides a harley and takes care of the community. Dave has a heart of gold and does everything he can to serve the village of lancaster. This man is a traditional bills and sabres loving italian who will most likely live to 150 years old.

Joshua is my fiance, he’s always had a life long dream of being able to serve his community as a police officer. He started out joining the Army National Guard at 17, until last year when he turned his focus on his day job as a police officer. I feel he should be nominated because of how hard he works to make sure the community is safe and everyone is treated fairly.

Brendan has worked his way up the rankings starting as a young explore to now a full fire fighter at Main Transit Fire Station. Brendan is the first one to jump in and help whenever and wherever there is a need. Brendan is all about giving back which is why he decided to pursue a career as a Physical Therapist. Today he has taken his experience and knowledge and applied it working with disabled children at Aspire Center for Learning where he has literally changed the path of some of these children with the work and dedication he has for each and every one of them. Brendan always strives to push himself to be better than the day before which is why he decided to run a marathon. After countless months of training, a few weeks back he completed his first Buffalo Marathon. Such an amazing accomplishment among all of his accomplishments thus far. Brendan is a perfect candidate to receive a new car. Thank you for considering Samantha as a recipient of this award.

For the past 14+ years, Samantha has been a Volunteer Fire Fighter at Main Transit fire station. Samantha lost both her parents as a young adult and has had to grow up quickly while enduring a financial burden and struggles along the way. Samantha is a hard working, dedicated, strong woman who has overcome some amazing obstacles that life has thrown at her. Not only is Samantha a Volunteer Fire Fighter, she also works with children (Boys and Girls club and helps with fundraising and 1st Tee where she teaches golf-based personal growth programs, which helps kids build life and leadership skills that empower them in all areas of life, including school, friendships and eventually careers.) and she works with disabled adults (at Clearfield) along with holding down a full time job. Samantha is a perfect candidate to receive a new car. Thank you for considering Samantha as a recipient of this award.

Heather is not only a Paramedic and has saved countless lives over the years, she is also a Volunteer Fire Fighter at Main Transit fire station. Heather lost both her parents as a young adult and has had to grow up quickly with enduring a financial burden and struggles along the way. Heather is a hard working, dedicated, strong woman (in a primarily male dominated field) who has overcome some amazing obstacles that life has thrown at her. Heather has always driven used cars as that is what she could afford. Because of her work as a Paramedic and the lives that she has saved due to overdoses or domestic violence (just to name a few), she is a perfect candidate to receive a new car. Thank you for considering Heather as a recipient of this award.

Well Alex is a wonderful father to his his 4-year-old and 2-year-old daughter. He takes such good care of them everyday cooking and cleaning for his family. I just believe he deserves to be recognized for such an awesome job he does at work and at home. He is a true hero 💗my son in law

Mark’s unwavering dedication to his country and his community is truly inspiring. He served with distinction for eight years in the U.S. Army as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist, including 18 months in Iraq, facing immense challenges with courage and commitment. Even after his honorable discharge, despite the mental and physical disabilities he now carries, his sense of duty never wavered. He continued to serve, this time as a volunteer firefighter, putting the well-being of others before his own. Mark has spent his life ensuring the safety of those around him. Now, it’s our turn to honor his service, his sacrifice, and his relentless generosity. This nomination is not just a recognition of his accomplishments—it is a testament to his unwavering spirit and selflessness. He deserves to know that his community stands behind him, just as he has always stood for them.

To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to nominate my dear friend, Christopher Vega, for assistance in acquiring a vehicle. Christopher is a hardworking parent of four wonderful children, and he has put in a tremendous effort to provide for his family. Sadly, just one month after he was able to get a vehicle, it was stolen on 5/25/25 . Without comprehensive coverage, Christopher has faced significant challenges since then. He currently relies on Uber and Lyft to commute to his job, which is about a 30-minute ride, as well as to take care of his children's needs. Christopher is an amazing dad who always puts his children first, and I believe that with support in getting a new vehicle, he can continue to provide a stable environment for his family. Thank you for considering Christopher for this opportunity. Warm regards,

Christopher has been working so hard towards his goal of getting his own vehicle that it finally happened!!! Despite him being a disabled veteran, he is a father to 4 amazing kids. Christopher works everyday even though some days it’s more of a struggle than others. One night while we had went to dinner and came home, after us having s’mores with his children, went to bed as usual and woke up the next day and the car was missing. He locked his car, had his keys still on him. A police report was made immediately. He is a devoted father but he has been having to take Ubers back and forth and that’s adding up quick. Christopher gives back to the community, he drives around and gives out water and food to people that have been sitting for a while. He is an all around amazing person and I do think he deserves some help with this since there has not been any leads and it’s been almost a month. Stolen on 5/25/25. Thank you for your time in reading this.

I hope this letter finds you well. I am reaching out to share the story of my son, Christopher Vega, and to respectfully request assistance for him in obtaining a vehicle. Christopher is a dedicated father of four wonderful children, and he has always worked tirelessly to provide for their needs.Unfortunately, just a month after he acquired a vehicle, it was stolen—leaving him without reliable transportation. Since then, Christopher has been relying on Uber and Lyft for his daily commute to work, which takes about 30 minutes, and for taking care of his children's various obligations. This has put a significant financial strain on him, costing around $300 a week, which is exceedingly difficult for him to manage.As a disabled veteran living with PTSD, Christopher faces unique challenges every day. Despite these hurdles, he always prioritizes his children’s well-being and strives to create the best life possible for them. Thank you for considering my son, Christopher, for this opportunity

I am honored to nominate Kristen for her exceptional service with the Navy. She exemplifies pride, dignity, and excellence, serving as a remarkable role model in and out of uniform. Beyond her military career, Kristen has excelled as an X-ray technologist at a leading vascular hospital in Buffalo, demonstrating professionalism and compassion. As a single mother, she has achieved the extraordinary, raising three remarkable sons with values of discipline, integrity, and service. Her eldest son continues the family’s military tradition as a Marine, while her middle and youngest sons are Dean’s List scholars pursuing careers in education and law, respectively. Kristen’s unwavering dedication to her family, community, and country is truly inspiring, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious honor.

Brian is a humble hardworking man who seldomly does anything for himself. He carves time into his busy schedule to make sure he is everywhere he needs to be. He rarely misses his kids baseball/softball games and even steps up as coach and recently he forfeited sleep after a grueling 24hr shift at the firehouse to make sure he attended his daughter’s dance recital. Brian finds peace and enjoyment when we are on family camping trips. He is the most deserving man I know. Before being a firefighter Brian served in the USMC. His passion is helping others in all walks of life.

Charles is the first one to always step up and help others.During his time in the military the majority of it was combat related with multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. While stationed overseas he was injured during his service but continued his career until complications arose from the injury and left after almost 12 years of service. Even though he is no longer serving his country Charles continues to help others by working as a first responder as a EMT Advanced both in the pediatric urgent care setting and as part of a volunteer fire company.

Cory is very selfless and caring. He always goes above and beyond to help those around him without hesitation. During Cory’s time in the Navy he deployed twice to the Middle East, once on an aircraft carrier and another with boots on the ground in Afghanistan. Cory received his honorable discharge in 2016. Cory is very deserving of this giveaway.

Tim is such a hard working man who loves his family fiercely. Tim joined the army in 2000 and only 6 months after he completed his training, 9/11 happened. Tim served a total of 23 years of service, deploying 6 times to support the war on terriorism. He led his soldiers safely, guiding them through first deployments and situations overseas that you could never imagine. Along his military journey he submitted a warrant officer packet in hopes to get selected to warrant officer school and he did. This changed the deployment cycle not only for Tim but for his family as well. What i find most notable is his character. His ability to solve problems, help others, work hard, have high standards that raise the standards of those around him is truly amazing. If you spend 5 minutes talking with him, you would see what i mean. He doesnt complain, he doesnt like the spotlight. He is our modern day hero and id love to see him celebrated this way.

Danielle is a 16 year army reservist with one tour to Iraq. She is also a registered nurse at brooks memorial hospital. She cares about serving others and taking care of her family over anything else.

Good American Soldier

Life dealt a bad hand to begin with. He’s been the rock of our family. Without him, most of us would be lost. I think he deserves the world, and it would be so cool to see him finally win something he very much so deserves. With him being a rock to our family, and now getting married and starting his own family, it would be an amazing wedding gift as well.

He works hard, but the PTSD is sometimes too much. He needs to get to doctor appointments and take care of things and buses are not as reliable and in the snow not as accessible.

Dan stepped up as a father figure when our family needed it. He has given up so much and puts everyone else above himself. He is the family fix it man and is desperate need of a new vehicle. The Dodge Journey he is currently driving needs a rear differential and the cost to replace it is just not feasible right now. Dan deserves it and it would mean everything to be able to give back to him a sliver of what he has been able to give me and my family.

I’m a U.S. Army soldier, single mother of three, and became the army’s litmus test to allow women back into combat arms roles in 2012, in Field Artillery. I first enlisted in 2003 on my 17th birthday. Fast forward, I deployed to Afghanistan in 2011 and have spent over a decade serving with integrity in combat arms—where women are often outnumbered and unseen. I juggle military demands and raising three young kids alone. Reliable transportation is critical to keeping our lives on track—between school, medical needs, and constant relocations. I rarely ask for help, but this would be life-changing. A vehicle would not just ease daily burdens—it would be a reminder that our sacrifices are seen and valued. Thank you for considering me.

I am nominating my husband Gary for this contest because he goes above and beyond for everyone around him, not only his family but his peers and our community. He is constantly putting everyone else first. He has been looking at a new truck for a while now but never wants to pull the trigger...no police pun intended ;). I know it's because he feels the money can be spent elsewhere or that it's just not necessary. Working as a police officer adds a lot of stress to your life and you miss out on so many important events and family time. My husband never once has complained about that over his past 19 years of service. His phone rings and he doesnt bat an eye to help out our community or a friend or family member. "Winning" (or as I would call it "earning") a new vehicle would really mean a lot to him and our family. Thank for putting in this contest and making someone's dres come true.

John has had a long standing career of serving our country and his community. When we all went off to college, John took his time in the military and wanted to do something worthwhile. After a bit, he ended up in an artillery team where he learned how to do simple tasks with precision at the expense of some of his hearing in one ear. Since leaving, he has moved up the ranks as a Chautauqua County Sherriff. He has also joined the SWAT and dive teams to find more ways to keep the members of his community safe. At home, he is a patient husband and father who spends his free time growing their forever home. He has no idea that I've sent this in but it is the best gift I can give someone who has as kind of a heart as John does.

It is my privilege to recommend, nominate and introduce my son-in-law SSG/E6 William Snyder because of what he has overcome and accomplished in the past 20 years. He struggles with his PTSD daily, yet still wakes up with a smile and caring attitude almost every day. He is 100% disabled due to service connected injuries. William served over 20 years in the NYS Army National Guard and had gone off to war twice, coupled with many other federal and state side deployments throughout his career (911, Snowstorms, Floods etc). He is a member of the East Aurora American Legion Post #362, East Aurora Moose Lodge, Supports the Sheldon Fire Department and more. You will never hear him say the challenge is too tough, you will only see accomplishment. He is a husband and father and currently a grandfather. He never asks for anything, currently the Frame of his pickup truck is rotting away and really could use the help. He is always helping people in need with never asking for anything in retur

Antonia is a single mom of two girls and she is also a disabled vet. She worked loading bombs on F16 planes. She is a very devoted mother, daughter and friend with the biggest heart i have ever seen. She would do anything for anyone who needed her. Being disabled has not stopped her from raising two beautiful daughters and providing the best she can for them. She works hard everyday and gives 100 percent to everyone she meets. She has never had a new car and I think she deserves to have someone give back to her and recognize her for the truly wonderful person she is.

My husband was a 10 year Navy Veteran in the submarine service. He served during multiple conflicts during the Cold War era and the gulf war. He then had a 27 year career as a firefighter for the Niagara Fslls Fire Department achieving the raj of Captain.

Anthony is a disabled vet who also works as an EMT for Mercy. He also is a volunteer fireman for Terry's corner fire department. He is a great father of five children who always makes time for them and our community.

Jim Carrig is an outstanding person who goes above and beyond to help others even when his own resources are low. Jim served in the United States Army from 1972-1975. He is a devoted husband, father and grandfather who always puts his family's needs before his. Jim and his wife are both unable to work full time due to health issues and are in need of a more reliable vehicle. Though Jim is dealing with his own health issues he never misses an opportunity to donate platelets for those in need. Please accept this nomination for Jim Carrig as there is no one more worthy of a gift such as this.

My sister Susan went into the military at 17 years old she did two tours Iraq and Afghanistan to protect our country. She had to medically retire due to PTSD from said tours she’s been medically retired for 10 years now and the effects of the PTSD still remain in her daily life. I nominate her because even tho she has her daily battles stemming from service she still upholds a certain standard for all citizens! She has a heart of gold and would be amazed if she got surprised with this!!

Steve was a volunteer firefighter before he realized that he wanted to make this his career. It took him several years before he was hired by the NFTA as a Buffalo Airport Rescue Firefighter. Steve was patient as he waited for an opening, took the test and went through the grueling training at the Fire Academy. Nominating Steve as he is not only my hero but he puts his life on the line everyday. If there is a major plane crash at the airport or surrounding areas, a medical emergency on a plane or in the terminal, or fire on a plane or neighboring areas, Steve is risking himself for others. He is selfless every single time he gets into uniform. I am beyond proud of my husband and firefighter.

I am nominating my Son Joe for vehicles for vets and first responders. Joe spent three and a half years in the Army and was stationed in Vincenza Italy. He was Infantry/Airborne and went through Ranger School. Joe also competed in the Best Ranger Competition, an elite competition held once every year. He became Sergeant before leaving the Army and returned home only to turn around and become a first responder firefighter for the City of Rochester, NY. His unwavering dedication and leadership continues as a firefighter saving lives in our community. Joe's actions and consistent selflessness, and tireless dedication make him an exemplary candidate for this nomination. Currently Joe recently purchased a house and has a baby on the way! Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Because he’s had to be the sole provider since I got sick and if we won a car we could sell mine and have one less bill to pay.

Matt dygert is hardworking honest enjoys helping others makes sure every1 has everything they need thinks of others 1st.

Korey is on arcade fire department. For the past 3 years he's been threw so much a grandpa passing his dad passing two aunts his best friend. His vehicle is constantly braking down. And yet nothing stops him from going to all the calls. He'll walk to the fire hall to go to a call. He has three kids and several times I had to go get them when they broke down. He wears his heart on his shelves. He continues to amaze me. Korey also has a speech impairment which everyone said he wouldn't make it as a firemen.. he continues to to push himself and to help everyone. He is loved by many. He could really use a new vehicle for his family and continue to go on calls . Thank you

First responder just recently moved up a level of care o. Top of going through a divorce from a toxic marriage and working full time

My husband Derrick Parker is an Army veteran, father, coach, and quiet hero. After our youngest, Desiree, was diagnosed with cancer as a baby, he balanced hospital stays, work, and caring for our oldest—often spending holidays alone so we could split time between our girls. When Desiree passed, he held me together through unimaginable grief. He’s coached little league football for 5 years, teaching discipline, teamwork, and academics. As an NFTA driver, he serves Buffalo’s most vulnerable daily. We’ve faced countless hardships, including repeated thefts of our only car—a Hyundai now damaged beyond reasonable repair. With our oldest starting college, finances are tight. We urgently need a safe, reliable vehicle. Through loss, sacrifice, and service, Derrick remains the steady heartbeat of our family. He never asks for recognition—but he deserves this. – Aliyah Parker Thank you for your time

My husband served for 12 years in the Army. Our family vehicle will no longer work due to engine wear.

Not only has Michael served honorable in the Army he has helped others by standing up for clergy abused survivors.He has stood in front of the world and told his story of abuse ,and letting other survivors that they are not alone. He fights everyday for survivors, listening to their stories crying with them on the phone for hours at a time hearing their stories. He truly cares for survivors helping them to get past their pain and hurt even if it's just to listen.

Sergeant Aaron Mikolajek spent 12 years in the army. He deployed 3 time overseas and spent 2 years in South Korea. He is a dedicated father and husband. When he got out of the Army he went to college and got a dual degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering.

Vaughn is very big in the community of Wyoming County being a Deputy Sheriff with the Wyoming County Sheriffs Office. Vaughn also served in the United States Marine Corps serving the best country in the world. Vaughn is very appreciative and respectful to all persons he meets. Vaughn being my brother has been a blessing in life I will never take for granted. I think Vaughn winning a new vehicle would help his family out during this hard economical time. Thank you for your consideration and Go USA!

He’s a great leader, great person and always does the best for the community. He is the best dad ever as well! He is the fire chief at Swormville Fire Company for 6 years, and 11 years as assistant. He’s been at swormville for 27 years, and 14 years at Brighton fire company in Tonawanda.

Why should I be nominated for Basil Family Dealerships' Vehicles for Vets and First Responders? His entire life has been centered around one mission: serving others — without hesitation, without recognition, and without expecting anything in return. As a former Military Police Officer and a retired Fire Department Chaplain, he has stood at the intersection of duty and compassion. Whether it was protecting others in uniform or providing spiritual care in times of trauma, my heart has always been anchored in service. But his service didn’t end with retirement — it evolved. Today, he continue to give back through multiple community efforts. As a certified CPR instructor he offers free CPR training at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, because he believe that access to life-saving knowledge should never depend on income or background. In underserved communities, every minute in a medical emergency matters — and too often, those minutes are lost to inequality. CPR helps closes the gap!

He does a lot for our family since I’ve become ill. It’s the least he deserves

Jeff is a hard working family man that deserves the world.

Dave, is a retired first sergeant form the US Army. He grew up in Alden NY. I met him in 2019 when he moved back to the area after retirement when I joined the Combat Veterans Association. He donates his time to help veterans in the Western NY area. He also takes care of his disable son who was injured in a tornado in Missouri. Dave would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He recently suffered a heart attack and is recovering at Buffalo General Hospital. He is an amazing man and is a perfect representation of this area and America

Anthony proudly served in the Army. The friendships that he forged in service continue to this day. What an inspiration his belief that it's not what we have in life ,but who we have in life is what matters. He has shown us that there are friends, there is family, and there are friends that become family. Anthony always supported his children, family and friends. He drove them to practices, games, and all different sorts of competitions. When his children reached the age to drive, he made sure they had reliable vehicles to travel in. He is always there whenever anyone needs a hand or a ride. Anthony is so deserving of a vehicle because he always has your back like a true friend and my friend is truly in need of a new vehicle.

I am nominating Bertrum because he’ve been without a car for about 6 years now. He’s over 60 and his assistance isn’t enough for him to get another vehicle.

Tessa did a tour in Afghanistan as a medic, came home disabled after a tank accident, and still does everything she can to make a living. It's been tough, as im sure most vets will attest to. She is my daughter and just an amazing person and something like this would really help her.

I’m nominating Keisha because she works hard as a first responder. She’s an EMT and works 12 hour shifts every time and still takes care of my autistic niece which is 5 years old.

Justin is one of the best men I know, he took on a ready made family, he has worked 2 and sometimes 3 jobs to help support the household. He has taken care of his fiance after a bad car accident for ten months along with working 2 jobs and being a first responder. He has been part of River Road in Tonawanda for 6 years and President for the social side for 3 years. He volunteers his time to DJ things like benefits, walk/runs, etc. He goes out of his way to thank a Veteran for their service, help someone to their car that is in need of help.

My Dad served four years in the United States Air Force, this served as his “education” instead of the traditional college option. My Dad used his learnings in the Air Force not only in everyday life, but also was able to make a career using what he learned in the military. My Dad is successful in his career but also as a Dad of four. My Dad is one of the the least selfish people that I know and he hasn’t bought or leased a car for himself since I can remember - he would absolutley love and cherish a vehicle of his own but would never do it for himself.

This is our daughter. She does amazing, good things with her time. As a Field Medic in Afghanistan she ended up loving the people she served. She continues her work in the medical field doing what she can to help others. She does suffer from the effects of PTSD but has found ways to cope. She loves to hike and camp...recently completing the Long Train to the Canadian border. This is one deserving young lady! I'm biased but hey...she's just an awesome person!

I am nominating my daughter Amber because she is a single mother and has been out there helping save lives as a full time employee for 5 years. Amber works for AMR in the town of Evans. She works hard, she loves her job and is always putting a smile on peoples faces.

Curt is currently Chief of Police for Coudersport Borough PD and is also a member of the Drug Task Force. He was also Military Police in the United States Air Force. Curt goes above and beyond each day not only for the communities he serves in, but, also for his Family. I (his wife) became disabled almost 2 years ago after getting Salmonella poisoning from a local restaurant. I spent 6 weeks in the hospital and it was not certain if I would survive. During that time, my husband was left to care for our 7 year old daughter, work full time , and deal with the every day tasks around our home. It was a very challenging and stressful time. After 6 weeks of being hospitalized, I was transferred to a local nursing home for Rehab to learn how to walk again. During that time, I lost my job because I wasn’t able to return to work by a specific date (I was still trying to get better and walk again). My husband was my rock through this entire ordeal along with still working full/time, etc..

Whakim is a vet that proudly served his country with two tours of Afghanistan. He tore his achilles last year Aprill that left him unable to continue earning a living as a freelance videographer. Without being able to earn a living he fell on hard times. Now being back on his feet he has now pivoted careers working overnights as a patient care assistant at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in the ICU. Not only is he a vet and first responder he is also a father of two. Whakim is dedicated to his job, family, friends and church. As he rebuilds his life this would help him tremendously. He now takes multiple busses and the train to and from work which take up valuable hours he could be sleeping. Whakim is also enrolled at ECC pursuing nursing in the fall and winning this car would only set him up for greater success that would lead to him impacting hundreds if not thousands of others.

This amazing human not only is a great paramedic today working at Randolph Regional EMS but also served in the military as an army medic. She makes it a priority to volunteer for events, and kicks herself when she can’t go on absolutely every single EMS call.

I'm nominating Stephon because he is always there not just for his children but for EVERYONE though he has had a lot of trauma loosing very close family members ie parents a year apart along with other family he has ALWAYS managed to show up for EVERYONE else and he could use a more reliable vehicle.

I feel Stephon knightner should be nominated because he is one of the most caring, compassionate and resilient person I know. Stephon has had alot of tragedy in the last 3yrs he has lost his mom, grandma and dad yet still takes care of everyone without saying a word he would give his last to make sure people around him are ok. Stephon continue to give selfless love to his family, friends and his Job as a firefighter. Please consider Stephon knightner as a nominee.

I would like to nominate an exceptional army veteran. Who served as a combat medic demonstrating a commitment to the wellbeing of others. After his service he transitioned to a nurses aide, then a nurse continuing to care for those in need. He dedicated himself to working with veterans at the Bflo VA Medical Center , providing compassionate care and support. A devoted family man who has prioritized his loved ones , going so far as providing auto’s for family members while continuing to drive a 16year old auto himself.This selfless dedication to service and family deserves recognition !!

He is a generous, hardworking kind man. He serves a community meal every Wednesday from September to May for $7 which includes desert and beverage. He's a Trustee for his church. He mows lawns and removes snow for his neighbors especially if they're unable to pay! He's ready and willing to fix anything for anyone. Currently he is in pain due to a knee surgery that went awry and I'd like to see him honored.

He is a good man who doesn’t ask anything of anyone and gives more than he can to those around him. A tour in the navy during the 60’s set a course of lifetime service to those around him. Always has been the shirt of his back kind of guy.

Stephon is a very caring and compassionate individual. He's always there for not only his children but EVERYONE considering the trauma he has been through loosing both his parents a year apart and other family members during the same time he has managed very well and is able to help any and EVERYONE in their needs. So a new vehicle would definitely help him to keep being his self in helping EVERYONE in need.

Saved a man's life from burning alive by getting him out from a steam valve blowout while in the Navy. Devotes a majority of his time to working at the church. One of the most helpful, reliable and encouraging people I've ever met.

Brian is in REAL NEED for a vehicle. At presentbhe is without one and has no way of getting out unless someone else provides. This would be a real blessing for him. He has a medical retirement from serving and this vehicle would meet a REAL NEED.

Ric has a heart for his country, for his family and for fellow vets. He is a Navy reservist that I have the pleasure of working with every day. He is also a Marine medic. You can tell when he's getting ready to head out for drill because his shift focuses, and he has a hard time adjusting upon his return because he loves his time of service to his fellow soldiers. He has chosen not to continue to serve full time because he has a beautiful wife and three little boys at home, but I know this is a sacrifice for him. We work together at a Kaleida hospital, and I have watched him interact with patients who are also veterans, and he can get them to open up in ways that no one else can and wishes to start a program specifically centered around our veterans. With the recent events regarding the war between Iran and Israel, he has voiced his willingness to serve our country, if he would be called up to do so. I can't think of anyone I know that is more deserving of this nomination.

Because he’s done nothing but give and now it’s time for him to receive.

My husband is an Army Veteran who has always done whatever needs to keep a roof over his family’s head and food on the table. He deals with PTSD and tinnitus but never complains. He continues to serve the military and veterans as he works for NYS veterans retirement homes throughout NYS. I am fortunate to be his wife.

Lucas is the fire chief of a Volunteer department In Palmyra Ny he has been a chief for 3-4yrs. Lucas has gone above and beyond from being first on scene and running into a burning building to rescue a home owner who refused to get out. not only could’ve lucas lose his life from running in and being surrounded by fire but the family of the fire service and his family would be devastated. Lucas is also a father of 4 kids. With lucas being nominated not only could he have a new vehicle. That vehicle will help him get to the scene quicker and more efficiently of emergency to help the community and also help him provide for his family of 5 (his fiancée and children of 4)

Kyla is a 19 year old serving the New York National Guard. She enlisted during her senior year and started boot camp just weeks after graduating high school. Kyla was able to return to her hometown area to start college courses to pursue her dream of becoming a military officer but that was cut short due to prison strikes. She has been serving NYS on this mission since February and dues to the lack of help she decided to help her platoon and stay on the enduring mission. She is currently driving a 2010 car and it’s on its last leg. I have been trying to find ways to get her a more reliable vehicle but I am unable to afford it at this time. I am currently paying my way through college to become a Nurse practitioner. Kyla and I have never had it very easy but we are fighters and have always pushed through and will forever strive for more. To be our best in order to help our country and communities. We appreciate this opportunity and thank you for recognizing our heroes!

My brother left his small town at 18 years old (1988) thinking he wanted an education. The US Army gave him more than he dreamed of. Bart retired from the special forces after dedicating his life to them. I could tell you all his tours and wars fought but what makes him stand out is his continued dedication to the fallen soldiers and their families left behind. He came home to his boys but so many of his buddies did not. Bart raises money and spends valuable time with the children left behind without a parent. The Gold StarFamilies

Kyla signed up for the Army National Guard because she looked up to her grandpa and uncle who proudly served in the Army and wants to also serve our country. She does not take her position lightly and strives to be the best. She has been in NYS prison system since the strike started. She was enrolled in the ROTC program at St. Bonaventure University but had to backout due to her military responsibility. She plans on returning after the enduring mission with NYS corrections is finished and plans on pursuing a career as a military officer. She has been promoted a couple times already. She drives a vehicle that is 15 years old that breaks down often but she still makes it to every drill and all her shifts at Collins Correctional. At the age of 19, she makes us all so proud and is an inspiration.

He is my son, he's been to Iraq and Saudia Arabia. Served the military for several years.He is a prison guard at Mckean Federal Correction Facility now. He's a wonderful hard working father, husband and son. Helps out family members when needed.

The nominee. Is my father?He is a Vietnam vet who developed Agent Orange, which led to severe diabetes and most recently, the loss of his left lower leg.Him and my mom financially struggle.And now he it's hard for him to get around and get into their current vehicle because of his handicap. He has always been a selfless man.Always doing for others.It would be wonderful for him to win this vehicle.

David always has helped people out. Whatever they needed.Then David got cancer. Two and a half years . They had to cut the whole side of his head.With multiple surgeries and reconstruction. He then took ill again. Got better and felt he needed to move to Western Ny where his wife’s family was.He moved and six months later his leg was amputated. He has been through so much . That’s why I like to nominate Dave.

From the beginning of his career, Chris has dedicated his heart into making the Olean area safer. He has been hurt on the job, seen people lose their lives, and saved children. He feeds people, he helps those who need it most. He is a training model for coworkers as an FTO, and moved his way up to the position of Sergeant with OPD. After their 2nd child was born with special needs, Chris and his family decided to quit their jobs in order to seek necessary pediatric healthcare and special education. Chris now works for the Orchard Park PD. Chris had to start all over, after 11 years of experience. This career sacrifice turned into a wonderful thing for the OP community, where Chris has become a beloved School Resource officer. He is currently at Windom Elementary. Chris has had families tell them that he has changed their children for the better, making them not afraid of school or making friends. He is an advocate for children with special needs, & makes the world a better place.

My name is Andrew Bausenwein, and I proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps, traveling the world to help others and represent our country. My time in service shaped who I am today—driven by purpose, resilience, and the desire to make a difference. Since transitioning to civilian life, I’ve faced major challenges, including the loss of my vehicle after only six months due to engine failure. Being without a car has made it extremely difficult to work, attend appointments, and rebuild my life post-service. Being selected for Vehicle for Vets would be life-changing. It would restore my independence and mobility at a critical time, and remind me that my service still matters. I would be beyond grateful for this opportunity—not just for myself, but as a symbol of support for all veterans facing similar struggles.

I am nominating my father. He served in the Navy for 20 years. Upon retiring he joined his local Volunteer Fire Company in Lake View, NY. He is the most selfless person many people have ever met. He rarely does anything for himself & does so much for other people. He helped raise two children that weren't his own. I have countless memories & stories from my childhood & adult-life where my dad was always helping a stranger. Whether we were on our way to a movie & never made it because he helped two elderly women drive their unreliable car home while I followed, coming home from dinner and helping a person who ran out of gas, or pushing a standard car to jumpstart it in the middle of winter so the person wasn't stranded in a snow filled parking lot. The stories are endless. He is frugal and humble, he never asks for anything. He gets by with the minimum for himself yet goes above and beyond for everyone else. His acts of kindness are immeasurable & priceless.

He service with honor and valer for many years and got cancer from being overseas

I’m nominating my son, Jordan, a current Buffalo Police Officer and a proud U.S. Air Force veteran. Jordan has dedicated his life to serving others—first through his military service and now by protecting and serving his local community. He’s the kind of person who steps up when it matters most, who leads with heart, and who never backs down from doing the right thing. His sense of duty, humility, and compassion make me incredibly proud every day. A vehicle from this giveaway would be a small but meaningful way to honor his commitment and sacrifice—both to his country and to the people of Buffalo.

I’m nominating my Father, a proud U.S. Army veteran, because he has always put others before himself. He served our country with honor and continues to serve our family and community with that same selflessness and integrity. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, supporting fellow vets, or being a steady rock for our family, he does it without ever asking for anything in return. He’s humble, hardworking, and deserving of recognition for the sacrifices he’s made. A vehicle from this giveaway would be a powerful way to say thank you to a man who never stops giving.

I am nominating my son Samuel because he put his life on the line during some of the hardest times of the Iraq war. He was stationed and deployed with 3/8 out of NC and now has a family of 7, works hard and only has 1 vehicle for his family. He is a decorated combat veteran that could really use another vehicle.

David has been with the Genesee Coutny Sheriff’s office for about 12 years. First as a dispatcher, then as a road deputy, now as an investigator. He is a fire arms instructor, CIT, DRE, FTO and holds several other titles I can’t keep up with. He cares about his community and has shown this through the countless hours dedicated to the sheriffs office. He has been awarded officer of the year in past years. In May 2020, he was shot at in a pursuit with a tractor trailer that went cross several counties. The bullet was less than an inch from his head. I was pregnant with our second child, due in August. This was probably the closest call we’ve had yet, though he’s been a part of several critical incidents. No call has never deterred him from doing what is needed to protect those in the community. He always does what is needed and what is right. He makes sure to provide for our family, even when it means he misses out at times. He’s an amazing father and husband. He deserves the world.

I could talk about honor and bravery - which he epitomizes each- however would that really make him stand out? I don’t think so- but to know him is to remember him- not because he was the loudest in the room (far from it) or came in looking extra fancy (he never does) — but you’ll remember him because of the way he leaves making you feel- heard, seen and appreciated. The special operations teams are known for being some bad ass guys/girls - but quiet and stealthy in their delivery- that’s this guy to the core. You won’t find him doing anything for praise or acknowledgement- everything he does comes from his heart- the one hidden way deep down by that tough exterior. You won’t catch him boasting about his war stories but if you’re around him enough you’ll come to learn of his loyalty and devotion to his fallen soldiers. He’s active in the gold star foundation supporting children of fallen soldiers. He’s not just a hero he’s my hero, I just can’t imagine a more deserving person.

Skylar is a volunteer firefighter with the Machias vol Fire Department. He is very dedicated to the community he serves. He is currently experiencing transmission issues with his current vehicle and this could really help him get a new ride. He is a passionate first responder who really enjoys helping his community.

Skylar is a passionate first responder who responds to just about any call he can possibly make it to. Unfortunately it’s been a little difficult as he’s experiencing transmission issues with his vehicle. This is a huge loss for him as it’s making it difficult to get to work and make it to the firehall to respond to calls. He loves serving his community in anyway he possibly can. This would truly help him.

Cameron retired from the military early due to medical issues. His lease on his vehicle is up this year and be are on a tight budget so this would help us financially.

He is our hero. He was in Desert Storm while serving. After he got out He worked for FCI Mckean as a corrections officer. He is now retired from there and is currently a bus driver. He is an amazing all around guy who would truly benefit from this. He has 4 kids and one grandbaby who all adore him as do I. Thank you for the chance for this great giveaway! God Bless 🥰

Matt Hendra is a newly engaged soon to be father of his first daughter. Matt works security forces for the Air Force Base in Niagara Falls. Matt is one of the Kindest most compassionate men I’ve ever met. Matt is going to need a new vehicle soon so he can take his daughter places and he currently cannot go that in his truck.

I’m nominating him because he’s such a caring and giving person, he would give the shirt off his back for someone and never asks for nothing. He did 2 deployments in Afghanistan, away from his daughter and our family to serve our country and never asked for anything in return. He suffers daily with ptsd and other health issues due to these deployments. He currently has a car that isn’t reliable and it breaks down regularly when he is trying to get to work. There’s been times he’s broken down on the side of the road on the way there or home. He can’t afford a new car at all and it would be amazing if he were to be blessed with a vehicle that is reliable.

Colby has dedicated over 20 years of his life to the military and serving this country. He will retire and end this chapter of his life this on September 11, 2025. After 9/11 back in 2001, he decided his path for life was defending this great country we all get to call home. We owe people like Colby who put their lives on the line so we can live in this free country, freely. We get to be whoever we want and do whatever we choose to do each and every day. When get gave the oath to protect all of us he gave that all up. His number can be called up at anytime, and he wouldn’t hesitate. I have stood beside him the last 14 years. This sort of lifestyle is not for the faint of heart and I am incredibly proud to call him not only my husband, but the father of our two beautiful children. With the state of this world today he would still put his boots on and do whatever it took to protect this country. He is less than 1% of the people in this country that would do that. God bless America.

My son Patrick started 21 years ago as a junior volunteer for the Holland fire department at the age of 14. Once he was of age he advanced to volunteer firefighter, while working a full time job. When he purchased his home in Cheektowaga, he joined U-Crest fire department as a volunteer continuing his love of life and helping others. Patrick went one step further and became an EMT. Patrick started working on an ambulance while still volunteering at U-Crest fire hall and working at his full time job. Patrick has moved to Franklinville where he continues to volunteer for his local fire department as EMT and fireman, and a business owner. There was no gaps between volunteering at the fire halls. As soon as he moved, he joined the firehall immediately. For most of his teen years and all of his adult life, Patrick has proved above and beyond that he is a caring, dedicated, selfless and a skilled person and takes his volunteering positions seriously.

He enlisted while in high school. Lost his father two months before graduating and left for army 2 months after graduating. He has been through alot in his young life. And continues to push to be his best !!! He’s been a big inspiration to his cousin to also join . And a provider to me his mother!!! And has also had a 6 yr old little sister he feels so responsible for. He’s a amazing young man and deserves good things!!! Please consider him for the car giveaway!!!

Leroy was a tunnel rat in the Vietnam War and received 2 purple hearts.

I would like to nominate my husband who served almost 10 years in the US Navy. He’s made so many sacrifices for our family and always put us before himself. He’s always been the one people turn to from fixing anything, picking up new sailors to the command, to being a mentor, whether he’s known you for years or hasn’t even met you yet.

I’m nominating my husband, Gregory Nicastro. Gregory is a very hard-working man, I am a stay at home mom with our three children while Greg works. He comes straight home and helps me with the kids, even though he’s had a long day as well. I know Gregory would appreciate something being done for him.

The nominee is my husband. He worked tirelessly as a volunteer firefighter for our small town in Cuba, NY for over 15 years and 6 of those years were as a chief. In 2008, at the age of 20, he was one of the fireman that had a building collapse on him while fighting a fire in our neighboring town. He broke his neck which required surgery and fractured multiple disks in his spine. He continued to volunteer for his department until 2023. Meanwhile, he is still dealing with the pain to this day while working his regular fulltime job. His current truck is on its last legs and he could really use a morale boost!

My dad is truly the definition of a hero. He does so much for every single person he ever meets. If you call him, he shows up. It does not matter when, what time, or where you are, he will make it work/happen. He is the most selfless, caring person I know. He served in the USMC, then after he was discharged, he started working in construction. He has been a road superintendent for the last 14 or so years. He was a founder of a non-profit motorcycle club that donates $ to veteran programs yearly and builds ramps for veterans in need. He is so many people's superhero- he deserves this more than anyone I know. He's so proud of his background as a Marine, EMT, firefighter, dad and grandpa. He does everything and then some for every person he comes across, he loves fiercely and without limits. This would be a huge step in the right direction for him to maybe, finally, be able to retire and travel with my mom on their trike.

Veteran contest Tom is my husband and a wonderful father to three children. Tom volunteered himself to go on 2 tours without his unit all while leaving his son at home without him as a sign of respect for his cousin who was killed in Afghanistan in 2002 and all the men and women who fought to protect him and his family. During his first deployment to Iraq in many fire fights, numerous explosions and was shot in the arm. His second tour was to Afghanistan where he volunteered to join a small group of soldiers whose sole job was to risk his life protect VIPs. I do know that he received many medals and coins and he was supposed to get a Purple Heart but he refused to take it because of his cousin getting one. He felt he was only doing his job and did not deserve medals. As for today Tom was a police officer until he was injured on the job while affecting an arrest which forced him to medically retire. He loved the job and received many awards as a police officer as well.

My father served as Marine in Vietnam where he flew on helicopters. During one mission his helicopter was shot down. He was also shot himself during the ordeal and bullet is still lodged in his shoulder today as a result. After being shot down he was captured by enemy soldiers and taken prisoner. He was forced to hike the hochimen trail to his prison. He spent almost 6 yrs in captivity. 3 of which were in solitary confinement. But he never broke even through the torture and the loss of several friends. Eventually he was released and returned home to his family but still carries the bullet and his memories of his time as a POW. I hope you will consider my father thank you.

He battles daily with mental health. Highs and lows. Something that helps him is fishing, year round. And the places to fish around him can get to be "old news." So having something reliable to drive further out would help open his world to more things. Especially nature, in general.

This could be lengthy. He is my father. He served overseas when I was a baby. My father has worked extremely hard all his life providing for his family no matter what the circumstances were. He served 4 years in the Air Force during Vietnam. Not to mention he made sure my brother and I got a full college education at no cost to us. I have watched my father have pain from agent orange to his arthritis throughout his whole body but he does not stop even at 76 years old. He stays active with his great grandchildren, does archery with the kids in our church and still makes sure our family is taken care of. He is the rock of our family and deserves to be acknowledged for that and his service to our country. I am extremely proud to have this man as my father.

My husband is a 20 year veteran and is currently the senior naval scientist instructor at Academy at Shawnee High School but aside from that he is the best man I know. He is always there for anyone who needs him, He volunteers with The American Legion, Boys State, and is politicly involved with making our state better. His children, grandchild think the world of him he will drop everything to be there for the ones he loves. He is an incredibly loving husband. All you have to do is meet him and you will know he is a genuinely incredible man. There's and integrity in him that doesn't ask for attention, but earns respect effortlessly and his character speaks even louder then his accomplishments. He is loved by so many and I hope you chose him.

I’m honored to nominate my friend, Steven, a selfless and dedicated military veteran. He served our country with courage and continues to serve others in daily life—always putting others first. Despite personal and financial hardships, Steven gives generously to the community, volunteers, and supports anyone in need without expecting anything in return. Reliable transportation has been a challenge, yet he never complains and continue to show up for others with a strong spirit and kind heart. A car would mean freedom, stability, and a well-deserved blessing for someone who has spent their life giving. No one is more deserving.

Kenneth is a very dedicated fireman Chief of Willing Fire Department! Puts a lot of hard work into his department and making sure his fellow firefighters are kept safe on duty. All the hard work of making sure everything is up to date and all the paperwork is taken care of. Kenneth has been a firefighter for about 12 years!

I am honored to nominate my wife, Rachel Mroz. She is an incredible woman, a proud Marine veteran, a dedicated mother to two young daughters, and a stepmom to three boys. Despite the many challenges she has faced, she has demonstrated unwavering resilience and determination. She pursued her dream of becoming a registered nurse by attending school full-time, all while managing the responsibilities of being a single mother and caring for her home. Her strength, commitment, and selflessness inspire everyone around her. It is her unwavering dedication to her family and her community that makes her truly deserving of this recognition. Thank you for considering her nomination. Brian Mroz

First I'd like to thank you for reading my entry and giving my best friend consideration. Matt is the type of person who will stand up for anyone. He will drop what hes doing and help anyone. I couldnt count how many times hes helped me or someone else and yet he never brings it up or asked for help himself. Hes just a full hearted person! Matt joined the air force to work on c130 planes because his grandfather flew thoes planes in ww2 and boy did he have some stories!!!! Matt was deployed to Qatar in 2014 leaving his family and friends behind. After matt got back he struggled with heath issues that he still deals with today. About 2 months ago he quit his job of 18+ yrs to pursue his dream of flying. Hes trained extreamly hard to become a flight instructor and is now teaching people his passion or flying. I know hes struggling a bit now (wont admit it) getting into a new career and I know this vehicle would help him out immensely! Please consider this great man for your contest!!!!!!!

She goes above and beyond for her kids, gives them everything before giving to herself. So, she deserves nice things for herself every now and then!

I am nominating my daughter. I know it sounds cliche to do so but I couldn’t be more proud of her. She’s the first female in our family to serve and took after her grandpa, my dad. Which we lost back in 2018 due to agent orange. She’s currently serving in Buffalo NY and has been saving up for a new car. She wants one bc she rescued a puppy last summer that had a birth defect called ectopic uterus. She’s full of love and always wants to help the next friend, stranger, colleague you name it! This would make her day but HER YEAR.

Marlo Mulder is one of the best people I've ever met in my life. She would do anything for anyone at any time. She has helped me and so many other people get through hard times in our life as she goes through hard times and hers. She had a vehicle that would help take care of her kids to work and to take care of her granddaughter. That car broke down and she has no way to do anything for anyone. I please ask humbly hat you choose Marlow moulder.

Rachel is a young EMT that works 60+ hours a week providing for the community all while studying to be a nurse. Her dedication and determination goes above and beyond most others her age. Rachel always puts others before herself and handles each interaction with grace and care being sure to provide each patient with whatever specific needs they may have. She is also active in attending PR events with the community and local schools to teach others about emergency services. She deserves to be recognized for her hard work and to know that it does not go unnoticed.

My dad Stephen has been a 911 dispatcher is Genesee County for 20 years, he had also been a Volunteer Fireman for 28 years. Over the years my dad has saved countless people, both on the phone giving life saving instructions, and also in person while being a Volunteer fireman/EMT. My dad has delivered babies over the phone, heard the worst of people's stories and screams, talked people out of harming themselves or others, on the phone with people as they take their last breathe, and everything in between. As a firefighter/EMT dad had fought many fires, performed CPR countless times, performed life saving tactics to save people in accidents. All of this is i know has taken a toll on my dad but he still fights through it to keep helping the public. There is no one more deserving of a new vehicle then my father Stephen Smelski. I followed in my father's footsteps and became a 911 dispatcher as well, since he had inspired me. The true unsung hero and truest first, first responder.

medically retired vet that served 2 tours in Iraq and gave endlessly to this country. Now a disabled due to his service and a father of 5.

My husband is a proud Marine Corps veteran who served 21 years, including deployments in OIF and OEF. He led with courage and heart, never asking for recognition. Since retiring, life has been a struggle as he tries to find his place in the civilian world and a career he can love as much as he loved serving. He’s a dedicated father and husband who gives his all to our family every single day. Being nominated for this vehicle would mean the world to him—it would show that people truly recognize the sacrifices he made. There’s no one more deserving of support and recognition from beyond his family than him.

Brenden Shaw is a devoted young man to his community, from the fire department to serving his country in what only 1% of the 1% of the population does and thats infantry in the army for 4 yrs then reserves for 4. He is a top responder in a department with a high call volume while aslo holding a full time job. His truck has left him stranded before to were he's still walked, ran to the fire hall an or scene to make a call, and then figured out his truck after, an or has missed EMS calls due to his truck braking down on him on the way to the call. He devotes his life to the fire service, an first responder community and asks for nothing in return, he's quiet but makes a loud impact on the community in which they see. Hes the definition of what a first responder in small town NY should be an is. Hes always learning and going to classes to better help the community and the department even while he was in the military he continued his education, he's got over 52 certs! National level too

Brenden Shaw is a devoted young man to his community, from the fire department to serving his country in what only 1% of the 1% of the population does and thats infantry in the army for 4 yrs then reserves for 4. He is a top responder in a department with a high call volume while aslo holding a full time job. His truck has left him stranded before to were he's still walked, ran to the fire hall an or scene to make a call, and then figured out his truck after, an or has missed EMS calls due to his truck braking down on him on the way to the call. He devotes his life to the fire service, an first responder community and asks for nothing in return, he's quiet but makes a loud impact on the community in which they see. Hes the definition of what a first responder in small town NY should be an is. Hes always learning and going to classes to better help the community and the department even while he was in the military he continued his education, he's got over 52 certs! National level too

Mark is my new husband! He’s a Purple Heart combat vet and he is one of the most amazing people I have ever met. Mark is the type of person that lights up a room and would do anything for anyone. He works hard and is always there for his friends and family and even strangers. Our nieces and nephews are absolutely obsessed with him and he with them. I am proud to say I have never heard anyone say a bad word about him. He deserves something good to happen to him and although he doesn’t like the spotlight, I think he deserves this opportunity. He is truly my best friend and the most humble person who I wish I could give the world!

He served his country and is very good man👍

James and his twin brother, Jack, enlisted in the US Army within a few days of graduating from Kensington High School in 1966. While Jack was assigned to an office near Saigon, James (Jim) entered the CuChi 101st Airborne 25th Division Screaming Eagles Helicopter Recovery and Evacuation Unit. Only those with whom Jim served can understand the duties associated with this assignment. Jim was granted a hardship discharge after 10 months when his stepfather passed away and Jim became the sole support of his mother. He went on to manage the Petro Gas Station on Military and Sheridan which was the family business. That is where Jim met Patricia whom he married in 1970 and together raised their son David and Jimmy. He later became a master electrician- very generously helping many without accepting payment. He is known for being softspoken, generous and kind. Although Jim no longer drives, he and Pat know there are other veterans who have a need for a car. Pat has taken the wheel!!

He served in Panama, and then onto Ft Campbell. Married and had 3 children, Paul III, Garbriel, Chloe. Very active in Church, Grange, Motorcycle club. He puts in 62 to 70 hrs a week at his job, As Pest Controller, Trainer etc, He has to drive his work truck wherever he goes and could really use a car.

My dad is celebrating 50 years of being an active duty volunteer firefighter this year. Back in 1975 he joined the Friendship Fire Department to help make a difference in the community. Most people don’t realize the sacrifices these volunteers and their families give of their time. Throughout the years he has been instrumental in many projects to keep our community safe. From creating disaster plans for the factory and school in town, he also devoted time and energy to secure four dry hydrants in the town to use as water sources in the event of a fire. Les served as Fire Chief in 1999-2000. And for the past several years has taken in the role of teacher for new recruits to teach them how to operate and drive the fire equipment. I cannot think of a more selfless person who not only puts his family first but also devotes his time to make his community better.

Stephen E Rogers is a disabled combat Veteran from Desert Sheild Desert Storm wars and other missions. He has a Minsitry and wants to give back to Disbaked Veterans by having an accessible Van to be to do nature healing trips and various holistic excursions for disabled Veterans especially those who can't drive anymore or dint have their own vehicle and also be able to help them access basic necessities. A sprinter van with a ramp and or lift tinted windows to minimize sensory exposure especially for Veterans suffering from OTSD like himself and the ability to give back especially to his fellow war Veterans and disabled senior Veterans and their families. Thus goal is to improve mental health and his way if giving back nit because as a family thus is our mission and ministry but because this is how he chooses to continue to serve ajd want to serve. Thank you very much. Mrs Nickeisha Rogers (Proud Wofe and Caregiver)

James has been though so much over the last 20+ years. While in the Navy for 6 years, he injured his knee which he still has issues with to this day but didn't stop him from pursuing his dreams of becoming a state trooper. He has custody of his two children & has been through two awful divorces. He is now happily married and has two stepchildren as well. His oldest son is turning 16 next year and an extra vehicle would help tremendously.

Officer Patterson works for the Village of Akron Police Department and throughout his years of service, has demonstrated a unique dedication to the residents and community. Officer Patterson routinely generates proactive, self-initiated calls for service and uses his time to continue his education in order to stay up-to-date with the constantly changing standards and expectations of law enforcement officers. Officer Patterson rarely takes personal time and volunteers for community events to bridge the gap within the community and law enforcement.

Ryan is always dedicating his time to his community. Ryan joined the department in 2008 at 18 and has worked hard to move up the chain of command. Ryan is also part of the Chautauqua County Fire Advisory Board where he continues to give countless hours of dedication and knowledge to hos community and Chautauqua County.

I'm nominating my dear friend Christine, a U. S. AF veteran who quietly lives with the challenges that came after service. Even with her own struggles, she shows up for others in ways that matter deeply. Since losing my kid's father, Christine has been a lifeline-helping me a fellow disabled vet by picking up my kids from daycare, stepping in when I am overwhelmed, and being someone I can always count on. She never asks for anything in return. A dependable vehicle would liftsuch a weight off her shoulders and make it easier for her to keep showing up for the people she cares about- including me and my kids. Christine gives from the heart, and I can't think of anyone more deserving.

This good man donates the majority of his time serving people from his parish for several months cooking dinners on Wednesdays of about 25-35 people. He’s been doing this for free coming up with good nutritional meals for $7.00 a plate. This past year he’s done it with a complete knee replacement. His dedication to this endeavor is and has been unmatched. Once this seasonal season is completed he then organizes and assigns others who freely give their time to this their job assignments. His organizational skills for this is unbelievable and it shows in the amount of people coming to their Friday Night Fish Fry that each year it’s grown financially and in the amount of people coming every year. Besides having his own small landscape business he freely helps his neighbors year round including plowing their driveways. This man deserves serious consideration and anew truck helping him would be outstanding. Thank you for reading this n with all this man does for his friends neighbors

Tom has been through so very much. Having injured his spine in the service, he's been in constant pain. His desire was to move home to be near his sisters a d finally moved to Dunkirk. His sisters however are 45 minutes from him. Once he moved here he was diagnosed with cancer on his jaw and surgery left his face partially paralyzed and numb. Then his car started to break down, making visits to his sister almost impossible and at their ages, it's hard for them to see him (72 &82). Please select him so he can at least visit family!

He was one of the people involved in saving a man's life by pulling him from a house that blew up in LAKEVIEW. The heat was so intense he could feel on the back of his neck and his ears. Thanks to Jeff for pulling this man out and saving his life.

Spent several years in Vietnam. Some effects remain.

Scott has been a Fire Chief for 24 years He has been a fireman since he was 16 years old. He also has a son and a daughter that are firemen. He uses his own personal truck for responses and his truck needs many repairs and is rusting out badly. A new truck for him would be greatly appreciated and could be used for many more years as a Fire Chief .

Spent 2 years in Vietnam. Some effects still continue.

He's the most loyal friend of mine for 20 years now. Cares a lot. Loves my dog and his dog. His car (jeep) is nothing but problems. On top of his apprentice wage his car seems to be a stress.

My son joined at the age of 17. I had to sign for him to join. He went through boot camp and fought to get through. I was a single mom and things weren't always easy but he turned out to be a great man. He makes me very proud

My Papa just turned 90 and is literally the most giving, loving and amazing man. He has always put his family first. He is so proud to be a veteran and always wears his paratrooper hat and jacket. His transmission just went in his 2016 f-150 and even though he can get it fixed, he deserves all his blessings while he is still here to receive them.

I’m nominating my wife, an Army veteran, because she embodies strength, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication—both in service to her country and in her daily life. She gave selflessly while serving in uniform, and she continues to give as a wife, a friend, and a role model in our community. Despite the challenges she’s faced, she approaches life with resilience and compassion. A reliable car would ease some of the burdens she carries and honor her with something she truly deserves: support and recognition. She doesn’t ask for much—but she’s given so much. This would mean the world to her, and to us.

I'm nominating my husband because he just deserves it. He gave up 8 years of his life so we could have the freedoms we have without a second thought. He donated a kidney to a high school friend 13 years ago. Eric never asks for anything but he's the first to reach out to help. He's always dreamed of owning a truck but financially we could never swing it. I'm a stay at home mom taking care of a child with medical issues so I can't help financially. Please help my husband's dreams come true!

I am nominating Dustin because he demonstrates the characteristics of a true leader. He is a lieutenant of the East Aurora police force. He helps to protect others and gives presentations to schools and businesses on active shooter situations. Dustin is resilient, loving, and selfless. He is a dad to four kids under 8 and is very involved in their life. He is always looking out for everyone else. Dustin is a true gift to others and it would be an amazing gift to him to win a new vehicle.

I am nominating Dustin because he is overly deserving. Dustin is my husband and has stood by my side through thick and thin. I have been very ill and required inpatient treatment for eating disorders. He never wavered in his devotion to my health and truly is a giving soul. He is a dad to our 4 kids and is steadfast and strong. He is the head lieutenant of the East Aurora Police department and shows appreciation and direction. He is a gift to his community.

I’m nominating Steven, a proud U.S. veteran, who has given so much and asked for so little. Despite facing the lasting effects of his service, he keeps pushing forward—working hard, helping others, and never giving up. A reliable car would be life-changing for Steven. It would ease his daily burdens and give him the freedom and stability he truly deserves. Even when life weighs heavy, Steven keeps showing up with heart and strength. Now it’s time we show up for him.

I am nominating him because I see the Drive he continues to give every morning and day that he wakes up it is another difficult day or task to be completed.He makes sure he still has time for his family and Be a role model for his son .. everything he does I just want him to know that it doesn’t go unnoticed he deserves this !

My wife has been a dedicated nurse at Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department for over 15 years. She drives more than an hour each way to care for others, a journey she makes daily without complaint. Her calling to healthcare began with her mother, who was also a nurse and role model. Even after losing her mother to cancer, she never wavered in her mission to care for others. Through tireless hours, countless emergencies, and the darkest days of COVID, she has remained a steady, compassionate force — saving lives and comforting families. Her commitment is unshakable. She still drives the same car she did years ago, now with over 200,000 miles (and possibly only three wheels), never letting anything get in the way of her duty. She’s more than deserving of this — she’s the reason so many others have been given another chance.

My dad has served the people of WNY for the last 40 years as both an EMT and paramedic. He has been with the company, which is currently American Medical Response, for his entire career, along with Mercy Flight for 10 years. He has the second most seniority and is a certified trainer. When he isn’t working with his normal partner, he is training the next generation of EMTs and paramedics. He has been recognized countless times for his response times in cardiac events, was nationally recognized as EMS Star of Life by the American Ambulance Association in 1995, and by Erie and Wyoming Counties in 2004 as Advanced EMS Provider of the Year. Growing up, he was constantly picking up overtime and covering shifts when people called in. My dad doesn’t do this job for the recognition. My dad does this extremely physically and emotionally taxing job because he truly cares about helping his community. I saw this tenfold during the pandemic. One can only hope it's my dad who responds to their call.

I am nominating my husband, Rev. Gregory Hager who served our country for 26 years. He initially joined the Air Force in 1975 as a Security Police Specialist in Nuclear Security. He served with integrity and honor on the front lines during the Cold War during great international friction. My husband was a force who helped secure America’s safety and future freedoms. He also readily volunteered for extra duty and training putting him in front of his peers during mass casualties and attempted breaches of Top Secret areas. His actions and his professionalism resulted in the Gold Badge for Excellence, and promotion before his peers. Greg used the GI Bill to reenter the USAF as a Chaplain and served as a reminder of the holy. He was decorated ahead of his peers to the rank of Major. He served during 9/11 at Dover AFB Port Mortuary and deployed worldwide for multiple Top Secret missions. Only after several injuries he had to leave the life he loved. He is now a proud Patriot and Veteran.

Casey has been an EMT for almost two years now, and is currently in a paramedic certificate program. She has worked so incredibly hard over this past year between working 48 hours a week on top of going to classes and clinical hours. She is an incredibly kind and caring soul, and brings so much comfort to her patients. Not only does she possess the necessary skills to offer quick medical treatment in an emergency, but she also is always the person to sit and hold a patient’s hand, get them an extra blanket, and go that extra mile to really make them feel cared for.

I am honored to nominate Kristen for her exceptional service with the Navy. She exemplifies pride, dignity, and excellence, serving as a remarkable role model in and out of uniform. Beyond her military career, Kristen has excelled as an X-ray technologist at a leading vascular hospital in Buffalo, demonstrating professionalism and compassion. As a single mother, she has achieved the extraordinary, raising three remarkable sons with values of discipline, integrity, and service. Her eldest son continues the family’s military tradition as a Marine, while her middle and youngest sons are Dean’s List scholars pursuing careers in education and law, respectively. Kristen’s unwavering dedication to her family, community, and country is truly inspiring, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious honor.

I am nominating Christine because she always gone above and beyond at her job. She has worked at Sister of charity’s Neonatal intensive care unit for the last 9 almost 10 years. She loves her job and loves being able to take care of the babies and get them back to their homes with the parents. Outside of work she has knit hats for the babies so they have something to wear that’s soft and warm. She is truly someone who is deserving of the world and is a very special person!

Because she’s been a single mother of three for 20 years and is the most courageous and hard-working individual. I know she’s raised three incredible boys, one of which served in the marines and is now part of our local police department. Kristen is honorable, courageous, successful, driven passionate patriotic and so deserving of something good! And on top of that, she’s the most wonderful best friend a girl could ever ask for!

Mike’s greatest asset is his greatest flaw. He is constantly putting everything and everyone ahead of himself and his own needs. He is extremely active in volunteering in the community from kids sporting events to school fundraisers to community fundraisers. Mike never misses a trick he goes above and beyond the minimum requirement of calls for being a volunteer firefighter And is always there even when you think he’s not at the call. On top of all of this, Mike is running his own business, serving the needs of his clients with exceptionality and being an incredible father to his son and uncle to his many nieces and nephews. He’s always looking to bring kids to soccer games, pizza, places, the pool, and even the fire hall to just run around. There’s always room with uncle Mike and whether it’s one more kid or five more kids he embraces it all.

Nomination for Michael Forster Michael Forster is the heart of his community—a dedicated volunteer firefighter who juggles a full-time job, family life, and constant service to others. No matter how long his day has been, he’s always ready to respond when a call comes in. Mike also gives his time to his son’s school, where his steady presence and quiet leadership make a big impact. He’s reliable, humble, and deeply proud of his Buffalo roots 🦬. Mike is the kind of person who puts others first without hesitation. He represents the true spirit of volunteer service, and I’m proud to nominate him for this honor. He is also very dedicated buffalo sports fan He is also a great uncle to my son, Charlie, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024. I attached a pic of him and my son

I proudly nominate Mike Forster for Volunteer of the Year. Four years ago, Mike survived a stroke thanks to the swift action of our first responders. Since that day, he’s been deeply committed to giving back to the community that saved his life. As a volunteer firefighter, Mike drops everything—day or night—to answer calls, never seeking recognition, only wanting to help others. His dedication is unmatched. In addition to this, Mike works full-time and coaches both swim and soccer teams year-round, mentoring kids and showing up with energy and heart. He gives his time selflessly and consistently, not because he’s asked, but because helping others is what matters most to him. Whether it’s at the firehouse, on the field, or in the classroom, Mike leads by example, quietly making our community stronger every single day.

Michael Forster exemplifies selfless dedication as a volunteer firefighter, balancing service to his hometown with a full-time job and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Despite long workdays, Mike never hesitates to respond to emergency calls, often putting others’ needs before his own. He volunteers regularly at his son’s school, enriching young minds with his steady presence and leadership. His calm demeanor, tireless energy, and deep sense of responsibility make him a pillar of the community. Mike has intense Hometown Buffalo 🦬 pride and is an everyday hero to the people he protects and cares for every day .He embodies the true spirit of volunteer fireman and I am proud to nominate him for this award.

Josh is the most selfless person I know. He dedicates himself to the community serving in almost every position in the fire line and company. He is always there anytime anyone needs him without question or hesitation. He is always the person that other people reach out to because they know he will always show up. He always puts his needs behind everyone else’s. For example he really needs a new truck but has put that need aside again and again to provide for his families needs. All first responders are something special but Josh shines just a bit brighter without ever seeking praise or recognition.

Katie has devoted her life to being a nurse. She is always empathetic and gets her job done. Many other nurses look up to her!

Mike’s greatest asset is his greatest flaw. He is constantly putting everything and everyone ahead of himself and his own needs. He is extremely active in volunteering in the community from kids sporting events to school fundraisers to community fundraisers. Mike never misses a trick he goes above and beyond the minimum requirement of calls for being a volunteer firefighter And is always there even when you think he’s not at the call. On top of all of this, Mike is running his own business, serving the needs of his clients with exceptionality and being an incredible father to his son and uncle to his many nieces and nephews. He’s always looking to bring kids to soccer games, pizza, places, the pool, and even the fire hall to just run around. There’s always room with uncle Mike and whether it’s one more kid or five more kids he embraces it all.

It is with great pride that I nominate my son, Robert Trank, as a truly outstanding first responder, both in his capacity as a professional firefighter with the City of Buffalo and as a dedicated volunteer for the Woodlawn Vol Fire Co. His dedication to serving the community started when he was just 17 years old joining the explorer program at Vigilante Fire Company in West Seneca, New York. During his first 8 months as a Buffalo Firefighter, he lost a great friend & mentor who was responding to a fire in downtown Buffalo in 2023. He made a promise that he would carry on and make him proud. He has done just that in his 3 years with the department. As a Buffalo Fire Firefighter, he demonstrates steadfast commitment to the safety and well-being of the community, often placing himself in harm’s way to protect others. He responds to every call with courage and genuine compassion. He continues to serve as 2nd Assistant Chief with the Woodlawn Vol Fire Co, donating his time and heart.

Bridgette is a hard working woman that works six days a week to make her bills. She is really in need of a new vehicle and this opportunity will really benefit her. Thanks

While Noah was serving in the Army, he experienced a few downfalls. His mother was diagnosed with stage 4 Glioblastoma, a very aggressive form of brain cancer. She ended up succumbing to the disease in December of 2023. Noah also tore his rotator cuff and had to have surgery. In neither instance did he back down from his duties. I’ve known Noah his whole life and he would absolutely give anything to help anyone, even if it meant making the ultimate sacrifice. His current vehicle’s transmission has been experiencing issues which has been preventing him from getting to work. I know he would be forever appreciative of a brand new vehicle. If anyone deserves it, it would be him.

I am thrilled to nominate Keith, the School Resource Officer of Lackawanna, for the opportunity to receive a free car. Keith exemplifies dedication and commitment to our community, tirelessly spearheading numerous events and fundraisers aimed at uplifting our youth. His relentless efforts ensure that every child in Lackawanna has access to the resources they need to succeed. From organizing after-school programs to coordinating community outreach initiatives, Keith stops at nothing to foster a supportive environment for our children. He cultivates relationships with families, schools, and local organizations, creating a network of support that empowers students to thrive. Keith's passion for service and his ability to inspire others make a profound impact on our community. A reliable vehicle would not only enhance his ability to reach more families but would also symbolize the recognition he truly deserves for his selfless contributions. Keith is an invaluable asset to Lackawanna, and

In addition to being a City of Lackawanna police officer, he is our school resource officer. Keith goes above and beyond for our students and our community. He’s involved in numerous fundraisers (Micah Hyde foundation, kicks for kids, shop with a cop..etc). Keith organizes our National Night Out and numerous summer programs for the kids of Lackawanna.

My father, Harry Button Jr, served in the Gulf War and has been an absolute hero and legend for my whole life. He still serves our community everyday making a difference in the lives of many student’s at Olean City School District where he’s now worked for 10+ years. Recently he’s been met with many physical and mental challenges and you would never even know it as he continues to work so hard every single day and bring a positive energy into any room he enters. He struggles in silence both financially, and physically and I know for him a new vehicle would help brighten his world immensely.

I am nominating this person because they never ignore an emergency he is always looking out for danger

Because hes a very hard worker and has saved so many lives. Is currently putting himself thru PA school now. He drives an old lady car thats on his last leg. He would be so deserving of a new vehicle! Please consider him for this free vehicle please!! Thank you! 😊 🙏

Jim was a Viet Nam vet who received 2 purple hearts and bronze star after his service he became a first responder for the buffalo fire department where he was injured and lost an eye in line of duty and is diagnosed with side effects of agent orange he has a letter of interview in library of Congress with can still be viewed on YouTube stf sgt James p Maloney from 2001 and is still trying to recover from PTSD and rebuilding his home in ft. Myers hurricane. And he never gives up

Our son is currently driving a 2002 Chrysler Concord, which he bought when he was going to Mercyhurst University where he studied Bio Chemistry. He also was a 4 year D2 wrestler for the MU. After he graduated from Mercyhurst, he applied to PA school at Daemen University. He was waitlisted for two years, but eventually got accepted and now his second year of PA school. During the time he was waiting to get accepted into PA School. He became NYS EMT certified, and then went to paramedic school and became a NYS Paramedic. The week after he took and passed the New York State Paramedic exam he started PA School at Deamen University.

He is someone who is so dedicated to the role he fills. Not only does he have true passion but also a love for the work he does. He makes an impact on his fellow colleagues and his community and gives his all. Always driven to learn more and improve his skills.

Terra is my mother. She works non stop with having three jobs on average 70 hours a week. Working at the fredonia police station as a dispatcher, working occasionally at Westfield PD, as well as a manager at Aunt Millie’s. She hasn’t had a new car in forever, driving old beaters so her husband and kids can have good cars. She also puts effort to help her kids go to college. Terra is known by so many people in fredonia and surrounding towns. She is constantly involved in the community through donation things with the Fredonia police department and National Night Out, etc. Everyone will say she is so kind and caring. She puts in the effort to make sure everyone in taken care of before herself. She is stressed but won’t let anyone see it. Her role at the police department may seem small, but with her involvement with the community as a Dispacher, her role seems large. I think she is deserving of a car after everything she has done for everyone else.

This individual consistently works to improve the lives of those around him, as well as those who need urgent medical attention. I’ve never met somebody with a stronger dedication to serving others. He will always advocate for a patients health, especially when he doesn’t agree with a certain medical decision, in order to ensure that each person receives the best care that is most appropriate for them. Jason does all of this while driving around the same old beat up vehicle that is 20 years old, which constantly has mechanical issues for which he needs to seek repairs.

My daughter works hard as a nurse..last year she lost all she had and her father that was a vet..shes travels part time for her career and sleeps in her car sometimes...Lately, her car has no heat no air an electrical issue ets..she deserves better since shes the greatest person i know and she tries really hard..She bought a couple cars from you a couple years ago and shes so happy with you there..Please help her..Im her mom and want her to feel happy and proud of what she does..Thank you so much

Not only is he in the army but he always my first responder, literally. First one to always show up and be there no matter what. Always goes above and beyond for everyone without expecting anything in return.

Because they are always first whenever something happens, they never fray away from a difficult task and show courage with ease. They have excellence knowledge and exceed in everything they do or put their mind to. Always remained humble no matter the circumstances.

Joe is not only a man busy in the community. He researches & works on projects in the community & has a hard time saying no when asked. He puts out flags for those that have served & gone before us, ensuring its handled properly or researches to have a memorial designed to honor those that have yet to be honored/remembered. Most recently he was instrumental in the memorial that just had its unveiling for the Blue Army Recruits here in Niagara Falls, NY. There he gave a brief history of the Polish American veterans who served in World War I in which the monument was designed. Throughout the year you will find him working on one project or another always giving of himself /his time for the community. He is a veteran that not only deserves to be honored but makes a point to honor other veterans regardless of the branch. We need honorable men & women like Joe to remind the generations that come after of the importance of what our servicemembers have done & continue to do.

My husband Kenneth is a triple threat who serves the US Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant, the Buffalo Fire Department as a Battalion Chief/Safety Officer, and Gethsemane Full Gospel Church as a minister, Sunday School teacher, and youth mentor. Caring for others is his true calling in life. He has dedicated the past 29 years to these passions, with no immediate retirement in sight. He has participated in the rescue of hundreds of residents experiencing health emergencies, or who were trapped in homes engulfed with flames, and he has been a leader, supervisor, and mentor to hundreds of young people in the military. He has trained first responders for NYS and taught at the fire academy for years. Kenneth should be recognized for nearly 3 decades of helping others. He epitomizes service before self. He works hard to support his family, community, and generations of young military personnel training to protect our country. He is humble, sincere and deserving of this car.

I am nominating my mom because I know that she deserves it for her hard and sacrifices that she put in with being a military army vet. She has overcome a lot of different things, including her ankle surgery cause she had to get her ankle reconstructive she’s a mother to five kids and honestly, and truthfully, she’s the greatest person I was saying in the whole world to me into the people around her. She made a lot of sacrifices and many different aspects and I feel as this will help her getting to and from doctors appointment and therapy.

Mike is a true patriot. He loves our country and he fought to uphold our freedom. He is a member of a large Christin family who upholds America’s morals and beliefs.

Fred is an amazing person who is 80+ years old and just celebrated 50+ years in recovery in a 12-Step Program. Fred has worked his whole life in his own business and currently has a very limited income. He is residing in Centereach, in the house in which he grew up, after returning there to care for his elderly father. Fred has helped countless other veterans and people in recovery over his career. He’s very proud of his military service and very humble in his personal life. He is a vibrant veteran who donates his time networking with those in need. It’s a real challenge for him to even travel back and forth to the VA when needed. He would never ask, however, I know that it’s nearly impossible to get around Long Island without a vehicle, especially if you over 80 years old, on a limited income. For these reasons please consider my friend, Fred, for your lottery.

Philip is my son and he joined the Air Force shortly after high school. He has worked himself up from the position of airman to the position of master sergeant during the course of his time in the military. He is active duty, he went to Kuwait for six months, he now is the logistical manager for the civil engineering unit. He loves his job and he puts a lot of time and effort into the men and women working under him so that they will love their job too, and love being in the military. I like to think he joined the military because I was in the military for 20 years and retired from there. He has a young family and a wife who supports his career in the military, whenever he needs to go on a TDY his wife always supports him with that. Should my son win a new car I know he would be very grateful for it.

I am nominating David Vanderheite because he gives his all with what ever he does. He works then when he gets home he does for his family and when a fire call comes in he is on his way to help. No matter how busy he is. He has gone on many calls for accidents , fires and helps with never expecting anything in return.

joined the marines at 26, served in a combat zone, had a daughter while in the marines, disability from the marines, went to school on the gi bill and is now a nurse. mother of two wonderful daughters

Jon is very active in the community, constantly giving up his time and money to help others fix their homes, help with pets, and attend fundraising events. He is more generous than anyone I know! His cars have never been nice, always need fixing, he has neve owned a new car in his 41 years. In the military, he was always making sure everyone got help and reciened awards in the service as well. He has fought overseas and suffers from ptsd, but you would never know it based on his fun-loving and witty humor. He very much deserves to be recognized for his hard work and generosity. Please consider him when you're choosing someone that absolutely, 100%, deserves this recognition and thanks from our community. Thank you for recognizing and thanking all vets and first responders, it is a great cause that you are giving back to the community! Jon Doyle for the win!

I am Dennis's wife. He has worked all his life and he was ushered to retire due to a series of events he lost all of what he was making payments on which left him and his family without a vehicle at all. He now cares for his disabled wife. He is a deserving person that's for certain.

My son in law is a corrections officer. He worked 7 days straight through out the strike. He now works 12 hour shifts ,and many days of overtime. He is the father of a 1 and 3 year old. He spends as much time as possible with them playing and teaching them. He gets very little sleep most days, just so he can have breakfast and dinner with his kids. It was tempting to just leave after all they went through, but he stuck it out to do the best for his family.

I am submitting my nomination for Jeff because he has such pride in his 4 years of service as a Marine, but also because he has over 20 years of dedicated service to his community not only local but the 9 fire districts that he assists. Jeff holds this volunteer position for Cattaraugus county with tireless dedication. He is always there for any incident that happens within his 9 district departments helping as interior/exterior fire fighter or assisting with the scene. He is diligent about his responsibilities under the Cattaraugus County Emergency Response Department- always in contact with the Director Chris Baker referring to any potential information or training. He responds any time of the day or night 7 days a week 365 days a year. While maintaining all of this he works 40+ hours a week for the Cattaraugus County DPW- Supervisor of fleet maintenance. While also taking care of myself, his wife, a 100% disabled veteran at home and helping his father, 100% disabled vietnam veteran.

Jeff Harrison is a quiet gentleman that speaks volumes in his actions for others. He served in the US Marine Corps with 4 years of honorable service. Jeff is a life member of the Kill Buck Fire Company, currently serves as a fire commissioner for the City of Salamanca, and as active firefighter with Little Valley Fire & EMS Company. He also serves as the District 3 Fire Coordinator (the liaison between local, county, state and federal agencies as needed). Jeffery is employed by the Cattaraugus County Highway Department. He started out as a diesel mechanic and worked his way up the leadership chain, now leading as the fleet maintenance supervisor, repairing and maintaining the road equipment in all seasons. Jeff is the full time caretaker of his wife Lou, an Army veteran and police officer that was injured in the line of duty, severe enough that she is permanently disabled. Jeff also helps his permanently disabled Army veteran father around his farmstead. Jeff is more than deserving.

My son was stationed in Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Fort from New York and then back to Fort Campbell Kentucky was deployed twice. His last four months in the military, he went to school in East Tennessee to become a lineman, he had to trade in his beloved Chevy truck that he absolutely worked so hard for. He traded it in for a Subaru for gas mileage to go back-and-forth to school. Now he is finished with school and out of the military and still driving the Subaru. There’s more I could tell you that I could explain, but I don’t have enough space on here! Needless to say he really misses his truck that he worked so hard to get, and so does the seven-year-old son that was their fishing truck!

James just got done with his 4th deployment, his last deployment was 14 months long, after shutting down his buisness and leaving his wife for 14 months and being injured on deployment he returned home to a divorce and his buisness partner who decided to leave , so now he’s starting over

Jon is one of the best people I know, always and consistently put others before his self. He's a single dad who donates to a handful of charities including helping animals and veterans. He is one of the hardest working people I know

My mother is a decades old veteran & continued to work in the government after her her discharge. 20 something odd years working at the VA Hospital only to retire and become a veteran advocate which has been at least for 10 years at this point. Also apart of the Patriot Guard Riders, she is constantly looking out for everyone around her, whether it's a long time fiend/family member or a stranger on the street. She is a great spirited woman had also has many accomplishments, accolades for her selfless work in and around her community across the country(she has helped many veterans out of state as well)

My brother Mike was my hero growing up, I always looked up to him since I was a child, I even named pets after him. He ended up leaving for the army and became a hero for many people besides myself, after years of service he was medically discharged but all he talked about is wanting to get back out there!

He is the best father in the world. He served in the army from 2003 to 2011 and did 3 deployments( 2 to Iraq and 1 in Afghanistan). He was medically discharged are sustaining injuries in Afghanistan. I would love to see my father who fought so hard for this country and me after my stint with cancer and a stroke to have a new vehicle. Please do this for my father who is an outstanding person in the community and an outstanding person to me.

Will spent 8 and a half years in the military before having to be medically retired. He did 3 tours of duty for our country 2 in Iraq and 1 in Afghanistan. He joined right from high school. When he was 11 his mother suffered a stroke and could no longer care for him or his 4 siblings that still lived at home and they had to live with his eldest sister. In high school Will ran cross country , maintained his grades and worked a part time job and also still managed to keep up on his daily chores. While in the military he had his only child, a son who ended up with liver cancer at just 1 years old. Thankfully his son was able to get a liver Transplant and get better but not with out some trials as he suffered a stroke at 3 years old. Will was with his son as much as possible but unfortunately duty called and he went back to war to protect our country. Will is the most generous, caring man, he is a loving father and step father, always lending a helping hand when he can

I believe Mark Walker should be nominated because of his love, passion, and sacrifice for this country. Not only did her serve in the Army for 7 years, he also served as a registered nurse for 5 years before he became a disabled vet. Even after all the injuries brought to his body, he continues to help in other ways. During and after Covid, he and some buddies organized a nonprofit that brought entertainment and joy to lonely/depressed elderly residents in assisted living facilities. Furthermore, over the past 10 years, he has been a sanctuary for foster dogs, and continues to provide a loving home for them. These are just a few of the many examples of how Mark Walker has made an impact for his sphere of influence and for this nation. May God bless Mark, and May God bless all those who serve in any capacity.

Mike has had a rough time since coming back from Afghanistan. He has come back with TBI and PTSD. He could really use a new vehicle to carry I’d service dog and his family around to appointments. He is driving a little car with no room for anyone to fit into it. This would be a great chance for him to do the things he can’t do now.

I am nominating myself I’m a mom of four and I need a new vehicle. I am a DOCCS Lpn and have been through some hard challenges these last couple months.

Lyana is an outstanding officer who goes above and beyond for the community and those she loves. Lyana recently had to turn her car in as she had to save money for her dogs surgery. Lyana has a dog who is blind and requires a lot of attention. Lyana has been walking to and from work and on other occasion has been paying for uber to get to places as needed. Lyana has been an asset to our wheel as she is always helpful on scene and helps her peers when going through a rough patch. Lyana is deserving of this as this will help her with transportation to and from work and her dogs vet visit.

Brandon is my 39 year old son whom dedicates his life to serving people. He has a daughter entering college in September .and Brandon and his wife are expecting a baby in September. Brandon was deployed to Iraq during his service in the Marine Corp, after his 4 years were up as a Lance Corporal he joined Air Force Reserve for 8 years as a Technical Sergeant. He was honorably discharged from the military and a disabled vet after 12 years of serving due to PTSD. Brandon enjoys being active in his daughter's sports activities and helping the team whether in track, basketball, softball, volleyball, soccer or flag football. He's a great father and mentor to anyone he can help. I am proud to be his mother.

Steve Labady is a great friend I’ve known him for years he is always helping others with anything they need he cares for other he is very good taking care of people medical wise to he used to help me a lot when I was sick he took care of me he was always willing to help . I have Short bowel syndrome and he knows a lot about it .when I was in a coma in 2015 he was there by my side every day checking on me he is awesome for that and I nominate him because I think he deserves it Thank you.

The reason why steve should be nominated is he has gone above and beyond for his friends , family and his community . Steve is an army veteran, going to school to be a first responder . Steve is someone who will give his shirt off his back to someone in need . During the formula shortage he would buy families formula if they did not have enough to cover and he would bend over backwards to help families who may have not had enough money for groceries. During the holiday times steve would make meals and deliver them to the homeless so that they had a meal for the holidays . Steve is an amazing father and an amazing person !!

Tanner does so much for his family! He goes above and beyond working long countless hours to ensure we are all taken care of! He deserves so much more than the world can offer!

I am proud to nominate Steven Labady in recognition of his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and compassion as an EMT. In a role that demands both technical skill and emotional resilience, Steven consistently goes above and beyond—not just treating patients, but truly caring for them in their most vulnerable moments. Steven is the kind of EMT who brings calm to chaos. His quick thinking, steady presence, and commitment to excellence make him a cornerstone of every team he works with. Whether he’s responding to high-pressure emergencies or providing quiet reassurance to a scared patient, Steven treats every individual with dignity, empathy, and respect. Beyond his technical capabilities, Steven embodies the spirit of service. His impact ripples far beyond the calls he answers—he uplifts everyone around him. For his professionalism, compassion, and the countless lives he’s touched through his service, Steven Labady is more than deserving of this nomination.

My mom has been a first responder for years and has spent her whole life helping others and spent her career helping others and saving lives and has always put her family and others first before herself and now she is the one who needs the help. Her health has declined tremendously the past year and she went from working 2 jobs between the ambulance and at the hospital in the ER to some days barely being able to get out of bed to use the bathroom and she fought it as long as she could but after several misdiagnoses and the last 3 months she has gotten worse and finally found out she has Lupus and Granulomatous Disease and she lost her vehicle it was repossessed bc she wasn’t able to work 2 jobs anymore and she was trying to open her own business and all of that was put on hold due to her medical issues and she needs a vehicle especially for medical appointments so she can get better and return to what she loved so much to do, helping others. I seen your ad and if anyone deserves its he

I am a proud Navy veteran. I always talk about my time in service. I helped to raise 5 children. I helped my wife go through cancer treatments and 2 surgeries. She is cancer free for now. I am helping my father go through cancer treatment as well.. Right now I am stuck with a high payment on my current vehicle. When I purchased it I had no choice, because the vehicle I had broke.

Is a hard working mother of 7 helping others first . Had been a nurse for 24 years. Lost her brother unexpectedly during covid. Has been thru a lot but still puts others first.

One of the hardest working disabled veterans working for hospital dedication to the veterans and making sure they are taken care of goes out of her way to help people everyday to make sure they are taken care of she is very dedicated

My husband was a firefighter/EMT for many years. He went to NYC after 9/11 with some others from his fire department to help. He was diagnosed 2 years ago with cancer certified from 9/11. He has been fighting not only colon cancer but also bladder cancer both from 9/11. He had surgery and had to get a permanent colostomy bag because of the cancer. He has helped so many people in his community as well as the Tuscarora Reservation where he was born and raised. He would give anyone his last dollar. Please consider him for this, he is so deserving.

Because he doesn't have a dependable car to go to doctors appointments.

He deserves a newer better car than what he has

Adrian has lived a life of service. He served 7 years in the Army including one tour in Iraq. After the military he returned to college to get a teaching degree. He teaches in an inner city middle school in Niagara Falls. He coaches the Niagara Falls high school chess team which won their first WNY inter-scholastic championship this year. He also helps coach little league. Adrian is a mentor and role model to all ages.

Jon always goes out of his way to help others and asks for nothing in return. He actually puts others ahead of himself and has been in need of a decent vehicle since I can remember . He sacrificed himself for our country and has never prioritized his own legitimate needs. A reliable and presentable car would be such an incredible gift. I wish I could afford to do that for him myself. He has been so good to my husband and myself since our youngest child passed away last year. Always showing up to help us when we were in such grief and couldn’t get ourselves to do what we needed to do. His smile and his sense of humor made us laugh when we didn’t think that we could anymore. There is no better friend than Jon Kevin Doyle.

My brother served as a firefighter in the army for 4.5 years honorably. He now is working toward his masters degree in social work. I am very proud of him and grateful for his service. Regardless of what career path he is on it has always been community service.

Im nominating myself after returning home from Afghanistan, and suffering from traumatic brain injuries that impacted my life, relationships and jobs in a terrible way. I came home and went through divorce, lost my pro boxing contract and im battling everyday to maintain my relationship with my daughter. After divorce I gave up on myself. Ive recently spent time as an inpatient at the PTSD clinic and for the first time in a decade believe in myself, love myself and feel like I deserve to be happy again. I just put in for a security license to find work, and spend everyday trying to be the dad my daughter Gianna, deserve. Im not nominating myself because I think I am owed anything or more deserving than anyone else. Im writing this because I finally believe that everything amazing in life is worth putting yourself out there for. Thank you for your time.

I nominate Michael Lehnen as a prime example of selfless service to country and community. Mike enlisted in the US Navy at 17 years old, July 1964. He spent his first 2 years as a reservist while still finishing high school, then was stationed on the USS Bower. He participated in Vietnam and remained on active duty until 1968, when he returned home. He continued to serve in inactive status until discharge in 1970. Mike went on to serve his community of Cassadaga, NY as an active member of the Cassadaga Legion, where he took on many roles and served as Commander for 2 terms. He was also Commander for the Chautauqua County Legion (1990). Mike still volunteers with the Cassadaga Fire Department, currently driving amulance but also serving as fire chief in the past. He has spent over 35 years with the fire department, answering big calls and small, saving lives and being a helper. He's an all around great guy who knows what's right and is willing to put in the work. Thanks for reading.

Andy has served the Angola Vol Fire department for over 10 years. He also work for the evangola state park as a maintenance person. He uses his pickup truck to go to fire calls and his truck is literally rusting apart it’s over 10 years old . Andy lives on very limited income and always mentions how one day he would like to at least get something newer but money is always as issue . Andy is a great asset to our community and department. Thank you for considering.

My dad served 1964-1968 in the Vietnam War. He is immensely generous, compassionate and a strong individual. Continuously giving back to other people and doing what he can for the community. If anyone deserves this wonderful surprise, it’s him!

Hi, my name is Ryann and I’m 20 years old. I’m nominating my grandma, Diane Gulla, to win a car. She’s the widow of my papa, a Vietnam vet who served in the Army from 1967–1968. He passed away unexpectedly in 2020, and she’s never been the same. She loved him through his lifelong PTSD and health issues, and now she carries that loss every day. She practically raised me and is still my biggest support system. We live together now, and I see how hard things have become. She should be retired, but she still works and stresses constantly—especially about her old car breaking down. A new car would bring her peace of mind, safety, and a piece of her freedom back. My grandma is selfless, strong, and loving. She always takes care of others. I’d love for her to finally be the one taken care of. Thank you for considering her.

I proudly nominate Mike Lehnen for recognition of his lifelong service to our country and community. Enlisting in the U.S. Navy at 17, Mike served during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Boxer from 1966 to 68 and completed 6 years with the Navy. Upon returning to Cassadaga, NY, he became a pillar of the community—serving over 35 years with the Cassadaga Fire Department, including as Fire Chief, and holding many leadership roles in the American Legion, including two terms as Post Commander and County Commander in 1990. At 78, he still volunteers, driving the ambulance. Mike’s unwavering dedication and selfless service make him truly deserving of this honor.

Diana is a 3rd generation volunteer Firefighter and EMT and has Volunteered for over 34 years and is a life member right now after a career as a RN. In her volunteer duties, volunteers on many boards including The Fire Association of the State of NY, The Monroe County Volunteer Fire Association as well as other organizations, while taking the time this year to renew her EMT for ambulance response to the Rush Fire Department. This year has been trials and tribulations facing both significant health problems as well as the loss of her husband of 23 years ( also an active Volunteer). Yet through all of it, she is still serving others, as busy as ever. Due to Diana’s volunteer duties she has significant mileage on her 2017 Kia ( over 160k ) and at the age of 75 this summer, taking on a new car loan is a significant issue. Please allow her to continue her volunteer love by allowing her the ability to afford a new car she definitely needs.

Deven is a young, aspiring, veteran male who has adored cars all of his life. As his fiancé, every drive consists of call outs of which car is what- year make AND model (and ADDONS dude is wild). He's hands on with every project available to him. Anyone who needs help, even without asking, immediately Deven will offer himself to the people. He may not own a fancy car, because the inside is what matters to him most. The mechanics spark his brain into action- the diagonisting to find a resolve completes his heart. These "machines" have the same rights as humans in his mind to "feel nice and work amazing". Cars are his world and as his fiance, knowing how amazing the man is he deserves everything the world could offer him. I hope you keep this hardworking, navy veteran, car loving guy in your head when thinking of receiving awards. Thank you for your time.

Deven is a young, aspiring, veteran male who has adored cars all of his life. As his fiancé, every drive consists of call outs of which car is what- year make AND model (and ADDONS dude is wild). He's hands on with every project available to him. Anyone who needs help, even without asking, immediately Deven will offer himself to the people. He may not own a fancy car, because the inside is what matters to him most. The mechanics spark his brain into action- the diagonisting to find a resolve completes his heart. These "machines" have the same rights as humans in his mind to "feel nice and work amazing". Cars are his world and as his fiance, knowing how amazing the man is he deserves everything the world could offer him. I hope you keep this hardworking, navy veteran, car loving guy in your head when thinking of receiving awards. Thank you for your time.

I am nominating my son because he is the most unselfish person that I’ve ever known He has been serving in the United States Navy since the year 2014 and is still continuing serving this country. He’s also thinking about changing from the Navy to the army so he can fly helicopters for United States army

Matthew is an amazing person and the last few years he has gone through a very difficult time in his life. He currently doesn’t have a car and could so benefit winning one.

I am nominating my wife because she is a proud disabled veteran who continues to serve her country full time even with a disability. She is selfless and takes care of everyone and everything. She has been serving for the 914th Air Refueling Wing and has 16 years of service. My wife continues to serve this great country and would give to anyone in need. She is truly the best of us and works everyday taking care of the medical issues of US service members putting in countless hours to make sure these men and women who fought for us all are taken care of. She is truly deserving, I believe she is an ideal candidate for this. Thank you.

My father has dedicated his entire life to serving and protecting others. His passion for the fire service began at 15, riding his motorcycle through fields to answer calls at East Seneca Volunteer Fire Company. He went on to serve 30+ years in the U.S. Air Force Reserves as a firefighter—deploying overseas, training others, and retiring as a Master Sergeant. He was also Commissioner of Emergency Services for Erie County and later spent 20 years with the Buffalo Fire Department. He’s humble, selfless, and never spends on himself. Everywhere I go, someone stops me to say hello and share how much they admire him—he’s made countless friendships through his service. He’s my role model and inspired me to follow in his footsteps into the fire service. He never asks for anything, but he deserves something special. Winning this car would mean the world to him-and to all of us that love and respect him.

My husband, Battista Rapini with his family came to the U.S. from Italy in 1959, he was 13 yrs old. Because he didn't know the English language he was put in grammar school(at 13 yrs and old) and had to overcome the harassment of other children. Loving this country he became a citizen in 1965. He graduated in1966 and was immediately drafted into the Army going to Vietnam.He worked front line artillery shooting the 105 millimeter howitzer cannon.Working hard and showing leadership skills he became a sargeant E5 and taught artillery to the new recruits.He was discharged 1968 with an honorable discharge. Over the years he gradually lost his hearing due to his responsibilities of shooting the cannons.He currently has 80% hearing loss. He never complains, feeling it was his responsibility as a U. S. citizen. I honestly do not know anyone who loves this country as much as he does, appreciating everything probably more than most natives of our country.

Our grandson always wanted to serve his country and we couldn’t be more proud of him, he is currently at Camp Mugu in California , he is waiting for deployment with the USS Nimitz in the Arabian Sea . Our bases currently won’t allow any non military car services ( lift. Uber) on base He doesn’t have a vehicle now and I’m sure he doesn’t have the money for one . Thank you

I am nominating my husband because he deserves it. He has overcome many medical conditions and worked to become an EMT. At the age of 50 he decided to go to school to become a paramedic. He absolutely loved his job and the people he worked with. In March of 2024 he was violently attacked in the back of an ambulance while transporting a patient. Once police had the patient under control my husband still chose to treat the patient and finish the transport. This assault has left my husband with neck injuries that requires surgery which lead to an infection that almost killed him. He has severe PTSD and is afraid he will never be able to return to work..this man has always worked hard to provide for his children. A reliable vehicle will help him get to ongoing medical appointments and help him with a grandson we have custody of.

Just got my permit and I really need a car, I need to drive myself to work and drive myself to fire calls lol, but yeah I'm in desperate need of one.

I’m nominating my son, he is a hard working Deputy for Erie county working a lot of overtime, working bills games, Sabres games, and all the events Buffalo has to offer to support his family. He is a father of two and has a wife who works just as hard! I raised him as a ford family and he has now made his own family a ford family. Him and his wife currently drive fords and also his patrol car is a ford! I know Most first responders work countless hours and life is expensive for everyone but I believe my son could use a prize like this. Thank you for your consideration.

My niece Theresa is a hard-working, independent 63 year old who has served our country and holds the status of honorable discharge from the U.S. Army. Theresa has been without a vehicle since last November, following the passing of her partner. She remains optimistic and resourceful and continues to work two jobs to support herself. Her only means of transportation is by walking or by public transportation, which often requires several buses. Theresa is accustomed to taking care of herself and others and is not the type to expect anything. A vehicle would allow her to remain independent and employable as well as ensure she keeps medical appointments for chronic health conditions. If Theresa should be blessed to be selected as a recipient, I am confident she will "pay it forward" as best she can, as she is the type of individual who seeks to help others, not focus on her problems. Thank you for all that your company continues to do to lift up those in need in our communities!

Brian MacSwan has served as a lead commander of a Navy Seal team for many years in the most dangerous of situations around the world. He recently retired from his service and moved back to Niagara County with his young family. He suffered an injury during his service. He is now studying to be a Pastor for his church community. Thank you for the opportunity to nominate this young man for this tremendous honor.

Has been in the Army for 17 yrs. Was in the Army Band for 14 yrs, is now a recruiter for the Army. A great asset to the community and promotes to the community as a great role model for future military members.

Katie is a critical care RN and a single mom who has dedicated her life to serving others—both at the bedside and at home. She’s the calm in the chaos during trauma codes, the voice of comfort for grieving families, and the steady hands saving lives every shift. But her heroism doesn’t end at the hospital doors. She raised her daughter alone while working exhausting ICU shifts, often running on little sleep but never running out of love or strength. Katie never asks for recognition—she simply shows up, every day, for everyone. A free car would be more than reliable transportation—it would be a thank you for years of selflessness, sacrifice, and service. She gives her all to her patients, her team, and her daughter. It’s time someone gave back to her.

im nominating my daughter katie she is a very caring and strong individual she has been a ED nurse for 17 yrs she drives outside of buffalo and has 170,000 miles on her present car

I am nominating my brother Alex because he has he served for the United States marines for 4 years in Japan. When he came back he got a job trying to save money for a car. He rides his bike to work, to come visit family etc. on top of that he is also helping his grandparents pay for utilities etc in exchange to live above them. I would love for my brother to win this car so that there will be a little less stress lifted off his shoulders. And be able to save for his own place to live and untimely get his life started

I am nominating my son, not just because I’m his mother, but because he is the kindest and most caring person I know. Alex served 4 years in the Marines as a V-22 Airframe repairman in Japan. Since he entered the military just after high school he had not yet had the chance to get his drivers license. After his contract ended and he returned home, he wanted to work and save money for a vehicle, however in the meantime time he’s riding his bicycle. He’s also helping out his grandparents by paying their utilities. Alex may not have fought in combat, but that doesn’t mean that isn’t heroic.

My husband was deployed to Afghanistan (arghandab river valley) in 2009 with his 82nd airborne infantry unit. Two months before he was scheduled to come home he was hit with an IED and lost his left leg. His right leg sustained major injuries and he had to wear an external fixator for over 6 months. He slowly learned how to walk again and it took him almost two years to fully recover at Walter reed. He truly is a hero and deserves this more than anyone I know. He currently drives a 2012 Chevy Silverado that is basically rotting out from all of the rust, despite him spending $3,000 to get it welded last year. I believe he deserves to be recognized for his sacrifices for our country and all that he’s done for us. Thank you so much for taking the time to read all of this!

Steve has served in the military, went back to school, and is now training to be an EMT. He has fought against all the stereotypes people have tried to label him with and has always been an upstanding man, getting his life together, taking care of his kids, and being the role model everyone deserves!!

Lottie sold all her things to travel the United States to help her fellow veterans and she has such a kind and giving heart. She would give a fellow veteran or stranger the shirt off her back or her last dollar if she thought it might help them. She always puts everyone first and now she needs our help. She give and gives and never takes. I couldn’t think of a more deserving person. She’s fallen on hard tiimes recently but it doesn’t get her down. She keeps going, trying to make the best out of what she has.

After 20 years of sacrificing so much for his country, missing so many important milestones in his children's and families life due to oversees deployments, constant training and city and state emergency activations, he would always make sure his family was taken care of .He has mentored so many fellow soldiers and friends throughout his career. and after he retired he continues to mentor by volunteering his time coaching various local sports for his and other children in the community. he has been the rock in our life and i don't know where we would be with out him.

He’s a down an earth guy who works his butt off for his family. He will drop anything he’s doing to help others. The truck he drives now isn’t very safe for his baby and 2 year old to be in because it is falling apart.

Because he’s selfless and helps family out

Ventura Colon was inducted into the United States Army and achieved the rank of Specialist 4th Class, serving one year in Vietnam as a medic. Drafted into the Army, he earned a number of medals, including the Combat Medical Badge, awarded to medical personnel who provide care under fire in combat zones, in 1967 and the Army Presidential Unit Citation, an award given to units that demonstrate exceptional heroism in action against an armed enemy. Mr. Colon was honorably discharged from the Army. He has an extensive list of community volunteerism: the originator of the Hispanic American Veterans Memorial at the Buffalo Erie County Naval and Military Park. He currently serves as President of the Memorial and Service Officer of the Gabriel A. Rodriguez American Legion Post 1928. Volunteering is a way of life. He was inducted by the NYS Senate (Senator Sean Ryan) into the 2025 Veterans Hall of Fame. His vehicle a 2019 KIA Sorrento with over 100,000 miles.

Doug is a really great guy and has had a lot of bad luck and terrible things happen to him lately. He’s a Marine vet who moved in with his mom a few years back to help her out when she was dying of cancer. After she passed, his half brother, sister in law and 3 kids moved into the trailer. They are a family of hoarders and destroyed the place. They collected rent and utility money from Doug, yet never paid the bills. I suspect they were using drugs. They took his car in the middle of the night and left it abandoned on the side of the road. It was impounded and he didn’t have the money to get it out so he lost the car. Yet, he still walked 2 1/2 hours each way to MacDonalds where he worked part time. Eventually they were evicted and Doug lost everything. He’s been living at Buffalo City Mission since last November and about to get his own place (finally). If anyone deserves a car it’s Doug Cooper. He would be so appreciative. .

His love for this country is unwavering, he joined the marines during the middle of the heavy fighting in Iraq in 2005 and served overseas honorably during the heaviest of fighting and then returned home to get married and now the 2 of them now have 5 wonderful children. He has not stopped serving his country, he now working for VA at the local VA hospital where he works tirelessly to make sure all veterans are treated with the respect they deserve and are properly cared for. I'm so proud him not only because of his service to this wonderful country but that he is a wonderful family man devoted to his wife and children.

I would like to nominate my husband for this veterans prize because he exemplifies what it means to live a life of service, dedication, and integrity. He served in the United States Marine Corps for five years, earning the title of Sergeant—a reflection of his leadership, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Marines and to his country. Even after leaving the military, that same spirit has continued to guide him. He’s one of the hardest-working people I know, having grown up working on a farm and never being without a job. He carries that same determination into every area of his life—whether it’s showing up for our family, helping a neighbor, or giving back to the community. As a father to our two young boys, he is loving, present, and devoted. As a partner, he has always supported me through every chapter of our lives together. And to everyone around him, he’s the kind of person who steps up without being asked and gives without expecting anything in return.

My dad, Theo, is an incredible role model, and his time in the United States Army is a huge part of why. His service deeply instilled in him integrity, selflessness, and discipline – qualities he lives by every single day. He's always led by example, showing unwavering integrity and a strong moral compass. He consistently puts others first, a selflessness honed in an environment where teamwork was paramount. And even now, he maintains the same rigorous discipline and work ethic he learned in the Army. My dad’s military experience gave him an unparalleled understanding of commitment and sacrifice. He's a true leader and a devoted individual, making him an amazing role model for our entire family and community.

The reason nominees my son because after his loss his car he was struggling to work I was paying a rental $466 a week he was so hard for him to keep up with payments and pay all his other bills

He is Hard-working very dedicated and he’s been in the fire service for over 40 years. Has held pretty much every position. He’s also a dedicated father and grandfather who does anything for his family and he deserves this opportunity.

I nominating Robert because he always been working so hard to serving our country making sure he put is life in the line to protect our family but most of all our country he always been providing for his family even after he got discharged he still continues to work hard and harder even when he has nun left in him he continues to thrive our heart and continue to show other the positivities in like encouraging other like him self or anyone that’s not serving or a veteran that’s used to serve he always find his way to help other in need and encourage them to never give up and always thrives for the moment and believe in bigger out comes in life. I choose Robert because he has tough me that’s we can fight for what we believe in and can achieve it no matter the coast

My husband recently got out of the military in 2023 and after all of the hard work and dedication he put in I feel as though he would be deserving.

Our son is serving our country proud ! He has been in for 4 years and is soon to be married. Jacob was a former Basil customer and loved his Toyota Rav. Something like this would be a blessing!

I would like to nominate Steve again this year after he failed to impress last year, and let me tell you he’s really stepped up his game. Steve Is an absolute inspiration to everyone…. He shows up to work every day and makes a difference, all while he’s walking like a young Forrest Gump. A former Mr. July in the Departments annual swimsuit calendar, has recently been demoted to the less coveted Mr. September due to his advancing age which in my opinion is an absolute disgrace and calls me to question the integrity of the calendar judges, the man is aging like a fine wine. His level of commitment to his community is unmatched, Once considered the best hockey prospect since Dean Youngblood he gave up his hockey dream because as he states, the call of serving his community was to strong. Please select Steve so as a friend we no longer need to witness the embarrassment that is the hoopty he calls a car.

Lottie has been offering life saving care to the veteran community for 3 years, she does this inperson by driving to each veteran that requests her help. She offers many services from personnalized outings, peer lead activities, PTSD trama kits. Lottie also teaches all sorts of VA training and has provided sworn testomony to congress on veteran issues. She is constantly advocating for all veterans across the country. On top of all she does, it is done with her own finances, with no outside donations.

My brother in-law has been an officer in Memphis, TN for 10 years and deserves even just recognition for what he does. He puts his life on the line every single day between being a full time officer and a part time security officer. He's originally from here in Buffalo but moved to persue his career.

I am a combat wounded Vietnam veteran. I was wounded on January 8th, 1970, and spent the rest of 1970 in an Army hospital. ( Valley Forge medical center ) In Pennsylvania. Years of service was, February 1968 to December 29th 1970. So yes I'd love to win a car. Thanks very much for considering me.

Lottie McGill is a retired United States Air Force Veteran who currently is traveling across the United States as a Veteran Advocate. She has been apart of multiple leadership boards as a volunteer, including Fox Valley Warriors, to help provide PTSD kits to veterans in need. Additionally, she has recently launched her own organization titled Healing Veterans on the Move, in which advocates for veterans across the country with anything they may need. Recently, Lottie McGill lost her vehicle and in order to continue her work, she requires a vehicle to travel, help those in need, and continue her advocacy work with Healing Veterans on the Move.

Casey served 6 years in the Army as an airborne infantryman. He served two combat tours and received two Purple Hearts for injuries sustained in combat. Casey had a long road to recovery from his injuries but didn’t give up. Casey was honorably discharged from the Army and came home to his wife and 4 children. Casey continued working towards his goal of protecting Americans and become an Erie County Deputy Sheriff and is now on the swat team. Casey has dedicated his life to serving his family and all Americans.

To Whom It May Concern, My name is Brian Gay and I am nominating my wife Dolores. humbly requesting your consideration for the giveaway. I never imagined I would find myself in this position, but due to the progression of my wife's medical conditions, she now faces daily challenges that severely limit her mobility and independence. A vehicle would be more than transportation — it would be a lifeline. Several years ago, whether with lasting left-sided just after her last major cancer surgery.. As a result, she now relies on a wheelchair and motorized carts to navigate many public spaces. On top of this, she lives with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), a serious autoimmune condition that often flares unexpectedly, sending her to the emergency room or requiring urgent treatment. I work at a local hospital and work long hours first in emergency room now in administration and having her have a safe vehicle would absolutely help.

William or Bill as we call him is a Vietnam veteran. He experienced coming home to an unwelcome nation. Times have changed and we are proud of his service. He recently started utilizing the VA for healthcare after suffering a massive heart attack. He is the type of person that drops everything to run and help someone in need. His old Buick is in bad shape and in need of a new car.

I am nominating my dad, Bill Coppens. He is a Vietnam veteran who would do any thing for just about anyone. Since I can remember, he has always had used vehicles and continuously fixed them up when something failed. His used vehicles limit how far him and my mom can drive because they are reluctant to drive very far for fear of their car not making it. I would love to see him finally have a new vehicle and be able to feel safe again. In December 2023 he had a widow maker heart attack and had a slow go of it for a while. He’s been through a lot, and continues to help his friends and family with whatever they need. I’m very proud to call him my dad. Thank you for considering my dad for this nomination.

Chris is an Army vet and a police officer for the local VA. He has a huge heart and would help just about anyone. He has been through back surgery, twice, and should have another. He pushes through the constant pain and continues to put a smile on his face. He’s always in such a happy mood and spreads his light to anyone he comes in contact with. A new truck would be an amazing thank you for such an amazing man.

It is with deep respect that I recommend Jeremy Brueckner, a U.S. military veteran and tireless advocate for fellow veterans in our rural community. Jeremy served honorably in Iraq and continues that service here at home. He helps veterans navigate the complex VA system, volunteering his time to guide them through health claims, appeals, and appointments. His support is life-changing for many. Jeremy also helps neighbors with repairs, errands, and more by always showing up without expecting anything in return. His selflessness comes with personal sacrifice. He currently lacks a reliable vehicle, which limits his ability to assist others. In a rural town, transportation is critical. A dependable car would allow him to continue helping veterans get to appointments, deliver supplies, and support those in crisis. Supporting Jeremy means supporting the many lives he touches. He is a quiet hero, and no one is more deserving of our help.

Jeremy Brueckner is an amazing human being. He always puts family friends and community efforts first priority. He’s been need a dependable vehicle for a while but financially can’t afford it. He’s even borrowed our vehicle before when there vehicle was broke down. He’s definitely a vet that deserves and needs a vehicle.

My husband retired after 19 years due to a medical condition. He is currently a full time student and does everything he can to provide for our family of five. He sacrifices so much to make sure everyone else is happy. He has a heart of gold and deserves to be put first after he does so for everyone else. You won’t find a bigger GM fan.

I am nominating Evan Vande Velde who is a full-time firefighter with the Jamestown NY Fire Department and also works part-time with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's office as a 911 dispatcher. On top of working so many hours, he still finds time to be a phenomenal father to his two very young daughters. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he and his wife are struggling financially. Evan's truck has been out of commission since January and they don't have the money to have it fixed causing him and wife to have to share one vehicle. This is challenging since as a firefighter, Evan works days and nights with their work hours overlapping. A second vehicle would certainly lessen the stress of this hard working firefighter trying to survive in today's world.

My husband as worked as a Respiratory Therapist for over 30 years. He worked through covid taking care of patients. He works hard and is great at what he does. The patients respond to him and believe he is the best. He works with ventilator and trach patients and with the grace of God has gotten a lot of patients of the ventilator.

I believe Evan is deserving of being chosen to win a vehicle. He works full-time with the Jamestown Fire Department. Evan has a part-time job with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's office as a 911 dispatcher. Even though Evan grew up without his father, he died when Evan was one, he is a wonderful father. I am his step-father and I am proud of how Evan is working to support his family. They have fallen on hard times financially after Evan's wife was hospitalized for 8 days and during that time she was fired from her job. She is now working again but they are behind on their bills. Due to their financial situation they don't have the money to fix Evan's truck. With Evan's work schedule being both days and nights it is hard for this family with one car. Their work schedules overlap sometimes causing them with struggling how to get to work on-time.

I am writing to nominate Steve Long. February 10 Steve came upon terrible accident just moments after it happened. A car was overturned , Steve jumped into action. He found a women on the ground - injured but conscious. She told him her husband was still trapped inside the vehicle . Steve didn’t flinch He immediately went to the car and found the man unresponsive . Despite the danger from down power lines and the wreckage, Steve. Stayed with him he provided care and comfort until emergency crews arrived and began cutting the vehicle open to free the man. Once they did , Mercy Flight took over. That man and women were my Brother and Sister in law. We will never forget what Steve did that day. He didn’t know them. He had no reason to stop no obligation to help but he did. There’s a twist to the story, and it makes this nomination even more meaningful: Steve later married his daughter. Today, we not only admire him as a hero- we’re proud to call him family.

Nominee: Brent W. Roberts II Branch of Service: U.S. Marine Corps (4 years), U.S. Army (4 years), National Guard (2 years) Nominated by: Brent Roberts (Father, U.S. Army Veteran) I am nominating my son, Brent W. Roberts II, who served honorably for 10 years across the Marines, Army, and National Guard. Brent is a devoted father to young children but faces daily struggles due to lack of reliable transportation. He needs a vehicle to get his kids to school and appointments, attend work, and access healthcare. A vehicle would make a life-changing difference, enabling him to care for his family, get to work, and fulfill medical needs. As his father and a fellow Army veteran, I know how hard he works to rebuild his life after his service. Please consider Brent for this generous opportunity. Thank you for your time and support. Sincerely, Brent Roberts U.S. Army Veteran Father of Brent W. Roberts II

I am nominating my dad, Timothy Walker, a proud Marine Corps veteran who has always put others before himself. He served our country with honor and continues to live with integrity, resilience, and humility. Despite facing challenges, he never asks for anything and is always the first to lend a hand. A new car would be a well-deserved gift for someone who has sacrificed so much and never expects recognition.

My family needs a new vehicle and I'm the sole income.

Brian spent over half a decade away from home, to serve all our communities, great and small. He represents someone who sacrifices their own well-being in order to preserve the safety and function of our way of life as we know it. He still to this day deals with the aftermath of his efforts in battle. He is beginning to see and feel once again the positive that life has to offer, but it has taken him years to adjust, and he still fights to keep his composure and his mind level to a society that hardly accepts what he's gone through.. he deserves an honor. He deserves the privilege.

Anthony is dedicated to veterans. He is the director of veteran services for wyoming county where he is constantly trying to make veterans feel appreciated and honored and we'll take care of. He, himself, is a Army Veteran, Cav Scout. We was deployed to Iraq 2007 through 2008 for 13 months. He put his body through hell resulting in him being rated 100% disabled through the VA. He is also a cancer survivor, thyroid cancer, most likely the result of his exposure to burn pits. Anthony and I have 4 children, 6, 4, 3, and 1 years old. His current vehicle is his precious 2009 Ford Ranger single cab, NOT a family vehicle. But it is the vehicle he picked out while deployed and paid it off by the end of his deployment so its very sentimental, not practical. He is such an amazing dad and husband and a selfless individual. He is the current commander of Wyoming County American Legion and past Erie County commander. He values volunteerism, family, and faith.

My father dedicated 31 years to the U.S. Air Force, retiring after an incredible career as a pilot flying C-17s and KC-135s. He served in multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan — from the very beginning of the War on Terror to the invasion of Iraq. He’s a veteran of both Gulf Wars and Kosovo, with decades of sacrifice and service behind him. After moving here and starting his post-military life, we’ve always trusted Basil for new cars to life’s transitions. Honoring him would mean the world to our family.

I am nominating Rhonda because she does so much to help others. She is on VASH and helps other veterans find housing. She and two other people worked tirelessly to get an innocent man out of prison. She is an animal advocate and more. While in the Air Force, Rhonda did an outstanding job and was promoted to a Sgt. due to her performance. Now at the age of 68 and with a service connected disability, a reliable vehicle is what she needs since she has little family and needs to be mobile. I hope you consider Rhonda as I know she would be overwhelmed with graditude. Thank you

Chris has served in the United States Air Force , was deployed to Kuwait and Afghanistan and is currently a firefighter! He has 3 children and felt driven to continue to serve by joining the Buffalo Fire Dept even though it meant a pay reduction. He has always cared deeply about helping others and is always the first to jump in to help.

Because I help homeless people with love, kindness and respect. This population of people normally r withdraw and socialize with only other homeless people. They don't have the blessings and opportunities most any of us are ways find a kind word and sincerely concern. I listen and if I can help I do. Many homeless people are ostracized and shunned for being who they are. If we as a country open our hearts just a little bit more, one by one WE WILL SEE THE WORLD OFFER MORE LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING TOWARDS THE STRUGGLES OF HOMELESS PEOPLE AND THEIR NEEDS. They have more to offer than most believe. My sharing love and attention to homeless people has bought joy and unspeakable love for my fellow man.

My Pastor is a is a Vietnam Era Veteran. He spent six years in the U.S. Air Force, in service to the United States of America in foreign countries. His years of service Conflict (WWII, Vietnam) Vietnam Era Veteran; Rank: E4, served during the Cuban missile crisis. He served in the European Theater in France and Spain. Served in the 862nd Civil Engineering Squadron. I am thankful for his military service, his leadership and his godly centered life. I am happy to call him Pastor. Saint's Home COGIC, 323 Winspear Ave, Buffalo NY 14215

Jeffrey is proud to have served his country and takes pride to have followed his father's footsteps. He is especially proud to be full blooded Seneca. He wishes to continue to share his knowledge of his peoples language culture and ways of life with all. Passing stories music history and crafts to those he meets. Being disabled makes it hard to get reliable transportation. Jeffrey would love to contribute more to the children, that are the future of this beautiful land . I believe with reliable transportation this would be a weight off his shoulders, the healing step he needs to travel to and from appointments at the VA and to volunteer at various reservations events. He is active great grandfather missing several all star games due to transportation issues. That is crushing to the 5 little ones who look up to him as a father figure. Reliable transportation is need for his dogs veterinarian appointments. Jeffrey so enjoys being independent and truly this would be a blessing.

I am nominating my husband Randy because he has served our country since 1970 in the Navy on Aircraft carriers (USS Independance & USS Forrestal) and as a recruiter and Attach squadrons throughout his Naval carrer. He then transfered to the Air Force in Civil Engineering. His last deployment he was on was Operation Desert Storm. He is currently a disabled veteran for injuries occurred during his extensive service to our country.

I proudly nominate my husband, Frank Morales, a retired U.S. Army Infantry Master Sergeant who served 20 years with distinction, including two combat tours in Afghanistan where he was awarded the Silver Star for bravery. His commitment to service didn’t end with the military—Frank is a tireless advocate for veterans, a mentor to military-aligned students, and a respected community leader. He’s been inducted into both the NY State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame and the Fort Drum Warrior Leaders Hall of Fame. Always putting others before himself, Frank recently traded in his Jeep to ensure our daughter has a safe vehicle, and now humbly shares a small Ford Escape with her. Whether on the battlefield or in the community, Frank leads with courage, compassion, and humility. His selfless service continues to inspire everyone around him, and he is more than deserving of the Basil Vehicle for Vets giveaway. He truly embodies what it means to serve others—on and off duty.

She is a dedicated police officer with the Orchard Park Department. On top of being a mother of 4 children. She fulfilled her life long dream by serving this community. She currently has the role of the Orchard Park High Schools, School Resource Officer.

Mike is an army veteran who served a tour overseas and now is an orchard park police officer who continues to help the community!

My dad was in the army for 29 years and has always been my hero. He retired to be with his children and family

Rob it's been the chief for the Sunset Bay Volunteer Fire Company for many many years he lives breathes eats the fire company on top of being a boss at the water treatment plant in Irving he has a daughter he's a single father and he just juggles a lot he deserves to not have to worry and this nomination is just a way to show him that he's appreciated he never asks for anything to get back he just gives gives gives

Ryan is an amazing man and has the biggest heart if anyone I know. He would help anybody with whatever he could. Ryan served two tours as an active combat veteran in Iraq. He was honorably discharged after an injury caused by an IED,which he he suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result. After he came home he was left with no support system,his wife left ,took their child, and put him into a huge depression which in return he medicated with alcohol. Not only did he deal with his tbi and PTSD alone,he also quit drinking on his own. Then on top of everything he fractured his back and also had to deal with that with no help I met him in November and I completely admire his coming through everything he endured and still make it his duty to see the good in everyone. Ryan needs someone to give back after all he has given. He has no vehicle to get to Drs appointments,which is necessary and his health is being out in the back burner. Please show Ryan that someone cares as much as he does.

My husband served for 24 years both as active duty army and New York Army national guard. He is a disabled combat veteran who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan and the WNY community during numerous storms. Recently due to military connected heath issues he is unable to work.

Robert Buffalo native and a U.S. Army combat veteran who served his country with courage and integrity. After eight years in uniform, including a deployment to Iraq, and two assignment to Korea, he returned home starting completely over and has worked tirelessly to improve his life. Robert drove semi trucks while putting himself through college—to build a better life him and his family. He went on to earn an MBA from UC Berkeley and has since founded a veteran-led business that’s creating jobs and opportunity in his community. Robert never asks for handouts, and continues earn his way forward. He’s been through serious hardship but keeps showing up with grit, humility, and heart. He’s the kind of person who gives everything for others and never expects anything in return. Robert recently lost his vehicle and gifting him a vehicle wouldn’t just reward his service—it would enable a truly deserving human continue building something great for the people around him.

Serve as a us marine ,we badly need a second car to help people in the communcatly.

Bryanna has been a nurse for many years, with no recondition for all the care she’s given to countless families. She continues to go above and beyond for her patients, she works tireless hours. Recently she had a mom who lost her baby, in a tragic accident, mom and baby were separated, mom went to one hospital and the baby went to another hospital. Bryanna stayed past her shift many hours going ans far as contacting the funeral home, worked with multiple individuals to unite the mom with her deceased baby. She stayed many hours past her shift to help them provide necessary care to the grieving mom and her baby. She never asks for anything in return. She always gives her patients the best care and continues to do it with a smile.

My Father was in the Korean War. The forgotten war. He was there for three years and luckily didn’t see any battle. He was busy as a cook, a water tank driver, a personal driver for the higher ups. He also was a server at the officers club while there. This year in April. I was lucky enough to be my Fathers guardian on the Buffalo Niagara Honor Flight.. We saw all the memorial’s and Monuments there were to see with the amazing group of Vets and volunteers. While at the Korean Monument. It touched my Dad and myself. we were interviewed by the local news station that went with us. It was all very touching. To do this trip with my Father was and will be a memory that I and Dad will never forget.

He is a wonderful servant in and out of the service.

I would like to nominate my wife due to being a full time mother while balancing the life of her hard work ethic with being a first responder. She brings the children for school everyday which is a 40 minute commute there and 40 back due to the children being in a daycare that is farther than were we live her truck is not the most reliable vehicle and it would be a awesome opportunity for her to be nominated from being a hard working mother , wife & worker for her clients .

Kyle recently got home from a deployment last year June . He spent 8 months in Iraq and 11 months away from home in total. While he was there it was rough for him with constant engagement from the enemy through drones and mortars. He told me that he can’t wait to come home and buy a house to live in and start our future and that goal got him through. He bought our first house and got right back to work . With funds being low from the house he went a bought a 1994 F250 as his work truck and has been working out of it since . Being a 94 it comes with lots and issues and set backs . He always is saying how he can’t wait to save up again and buy a new truck . I think surprising him with a new truck would take so much weight off his shoulders and make his whole word . He is a strong man who will never quit and I know one day he will get his new truck but I can’t think of a man who deserves this more with all of the sacrifices he has made to get where he is now for his country and future !

Father Paul has been the chaplain for the Buffalo fire department for the past 10+ years. Although he may not be considered a first responder, he is always there when the fire department, or anyone else, needs him. Fr. Paul was at the fire that claimed the life of firefighter Arno. He was the priest who informed his family of the tragedy. He was at the Tops mass shooting site. He was the one who blessed the bodies as they lay covered in the parking lot. He sits and listens and spends time with the firefighters whenever they need him and every chance he gets. He recently retired as Diocesan priest, but that has not slowed him down. He’s constantly responding to fires, going to sick calls at hospitals or homes, attending wakes, celebrating funerals and weddings and baptisms. His car is over 10 years old and has 150,000+ miles on it. A new car would enable him to continue his ministry without the worry that he could have a breakdown.

This Vietnam Veteran is a very hard worker,who is a self employed Carpenter, is so selfless and compassionate towards everyone, he has never been able to afford a new car he always has to by a junker to get him through maybe a year, He is a veteran with Agent Orange, he will give the shirt off his back to anyone, Lawrence is a single man who never married nor has children, he works to get by and that is what he does even with the little money he gets from being a retired Military man, he is very simple and is please by any thing anyone gives him as a gift. It is nice to have him be noticed by someone who cares deep enough to even nominate him for such a dream gift. I am the manager of the VFW post 6533 in Randolph NY, Larry is one of the many veterans at this post that could use a puck me up. Please and Thank you for taking the time to read I hope you choose Lawrence.

My dad served in the military when the community was not nice and didn’t respect the military they actually hated service members. People would spit at them and throw things at them. He still decided to serve his country proudly and was in very dangerous situations in Vietnam. He was on an aircraft carrier that used to re-fuel aircraft. My dad will always be my hero!!!

Dana not only served in the military as a marine he was also a police officer. Dana is my step dad and has always been there for me since the day I met him. I have watched him battle his enemies in silence and yet he is still the first to step up and make sure everyone is okay. There are not enough words to describe the incredible man he truly is.

My husband and I met in Iraq 17 years ago. We've traveled the world together and he is the hardest working 42 yr old Ive ever met. He's a good dude, great husband and even better father to our 4 children. 3 out of 4 of them are in the active sector of the Air Force and Navy.

SGT Blackburn is an out standing member of the community he is always helping others with their need and is selfless in doing so. He is always the first to assist when some one is in need and always there to resolve any issue at hand no matter what it cost him in time or his own funds. Here is a man that deserve something positive becuase he makes positive things happen to those around him.

I would like to nominate Her she went in the Marine Corps at age 18years old.She choose the field of Administrative Office Clerk (0151).Station in the Supporting Arms Department at Naval Amphibious Little Creek School at Naval Amphibious Little Creek VA.Her unit taught Naval Gunfire with the Navy.She worked for LtCol,Sgt,lcpl,gunnery Sgt,Naval commander.She was nominated several times for Sailor of the year,She got Letter of Appreciation from the Navy, Everyone Loved and appreciated her timely work.She obtained a Good Conduct Medal.She s been a good role for everyone she encounter,she has five beautiful children and four step children.She married.She takes care of anyone she can help.She tiresly works hard for her family,friends and neighbors she'll help anyone.She deserves a vehicle,I appreciate you if you pick her for this we all love her.Thank You for considering her

I’m a disabled Army combat Veteran who has been struggling to get to my VA appointments.

My husband, Tim, spent 21 years in the Army Reserve eventually retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer 3. His career took him to four continents, eleven countries and to more than half the US states for both training and deployment. He deployed to Kuwait and was sent to Iraq, Syria, and Jordan to work with units and train troops. All the time he was away, it was tough on our family, especially our two children, but he always did what was asked of him while being a great dad. He served honorably and selflessly, always doing what was asked of him. He has always dedicated himself to serving other people even after retiring from the Army. He is a teacher, helps at our church, and serves as a leader in our son’s Scouting America Troop. Although it is tough to put into words how incredibly deserving of this honor he is, I hope you see how proud we are of him and all he does. Thank you for considering him.

Morgan is an ICU nurse at Buffalo General Hospital. She worked her way through school, became an LPN, but then persevered to finish her RN Bachelors degree. She is a beautiful, talented, kind nurse and was just recently married in June 2025.

Ann worked for 62 years at NFMMC. She worked on every floor. She is loved by her colleagues, her administrators and her patients. Community members often stop her and thank her for her kindness and expert care. She retired in January 2025, but still holds her license. It was a career with longevity that will be tough to beat!

Mark was an airborne ranger in the army. He had multiple deployments. He received multiple surgeries while he served. He has PTSD, TBI (traumatic brain injury) among many other conditions he acquired from the service. He loves humanity and animals. He has been there for us (even if he just met you) countless times, and has given more than he could many times. He will do anything in his power if you’re not laughing or smiling to make you do just that. He never asked or expected payback. He says “just pay it forward”, or “that’s not stress, getting shot at, now that’s stress”. Just recently he was let go from his company. This has put him in an unforeseen financial challenge. As this happened his vehicle also quit on him. Mark’s transmission and many other mechanical challenges have risen on him, making the vehicle not safe or drivable. Mark is the clear choice and when you meet him you’ll agree.

Mark was in the Army. He was an Airborne Ranger with multiple deployments. Because of this he has PTSD,TBI (traumatic brain injury) and had multiple surgeries while he proudly served our country. He is humble, and always trying to get a laugh from you if you’re feeling down. He has a huge heart for humanity and animals. He is there for so many of us at any given time. Countless times he has given more then he is able and never expects or asks for-anything in return. “Pay it forward” he says, or “thats not stress, getting shot at, now that’s stress. Recently he lost his position due to his daily challenges. He has come across hard times financially because of this. His current vehicle is “done”. The transmission is shot among many other mechanical challenges. I am sure you have received many nominations, and I wish they all could be awarded for all they give. However, Mark deserves this, after meeting him you will agree you made the right choice.

I’m honored to call my nominee my best friend and wife of 6 years. She is the hardest working most selfless person I know between working a full time job, going to college for her bachelors degree currently full time, being a wonderful mother and wife and yet still being able to answer the call at any time day or night as an EMT/firefighter. She has devoted herself to our community. She is a 3rd generation member to our fire company as an EMT and exterior firefighter. She truly is the strongest most caring person I’ve ever met she can tackle all that life throws at her while still being a mom/wife, employee, student and EMT/firefighter. Unfortunately last year we had found out that she had thyroid cancer. After surgery and treatments she is doing great and cancer free. Somehow she stays so strong, loving, caring, helpful, selfless and focused. My nomination is truly my unsung hero and being a first responder I know she’s a hero to many in our community as well.

My brother is more than a soldier. He is the heart of our family and a living example of selflessness. As an active member of the U.S. military, he has spent years sacrificing time, comfort, and safety to protect people he may never meet. He has missed birthdays, holidays, and countless everyday moments with loved ones, yet he never complains. Instead, he serves with quiet strength, believing that his duty is simply “the right thing to do.” When he’s home, he doesn’t rest—he gives back. Whether it’s helping a neighbor fix their car, mentoring younger service members, or showing up for family in times of crisis, he always finds a way to serve others. He never asks for anything in return. A reliable vehicle would mean more than just transportation—it would mean security, freedom, and the ability to see his family during the short moments of leave he gets. It would help him handle the daily demands of military life while giving him one less thing to worry about.

Dedication is the first word that come to Mind, being a AMR for about 4 yrs when Ms Felicia comes to mind! Her empathetic approach as well as professional to a situation where those two traits are crucial. As people we all have our personal struggles, however even still She exude leadership qualities when it is necessary ,showing the skills she obtained (being a BFD just over a yr)and being an all around good person whom also is the matriarch of her family and makes sure everyone is stable before herself, taking in a toddler family member as her own when she doesn’t have children yet is an example of her selfishness!! And this is why I believe she deserves the title of First responder

Katie has over 15 years as a ED nurse in one of the busiest emergency departments in the state, Strong Memorial in Rochester. She is first to tend to emergencies ranging from violent gunshot injuries, stabbing and beatings. She has tended to all walks of life including those caught in the line of duty. She is selfless in her attention to these emergencies always putting those lives first. Katie drives back and forth to Rochester from her home here in Buffalo. Which puts a lot of wear on her older vehicle. Katie needs a new and reliable vehicle to ensure she can continue to tend to those emergencies in the ED where she is a trusted Nurse, who has been a valued part of her team for nearly 2 decades

Michael served out country and came home with a blown out knee and mental health struggles. He is doing well despite his struggles.

She's an amazing first responder and super passionate about her job.

Its like she lives at work! And she is genuinely a great person who loves what she does.

Hello! I am nominating my oldest sister Felicia! For the last 4 years she has been and Advanced EMT in the city of Buffalo. She also is a Buffalo Fire Dispatcher and she is a 911/Fire Dispatcher for Grand Island part time as well! She is one of the most genuine, caring, hard working people I’ve ever known. My sister has dedicated majority of her time to her work as a first responder, the winter storm we had some years ago after being stranded in an ambulance car for 16 hours, was rescued and used her own vehicle to transport people to local hospitals when there was no EMS available. My sister is my best friend, she had taken custody of my son for the time being while I am away in the army. My sister deserves this more than anything, last Friday 8/8/25, her motor seized on her jeep and she is without a car. I would love for her to be able to get a gift given to her because she gives so much to other people daily!

My dad‘s a 77 year old Vietnam Vet that has done nothing but give to others my entire life. He’s a recovering alcoholic for 44 years sober. He picks people up and takes them to meetings, picks people up and takes them to appointments or if they just need to talk. He was injured in a work accident many years ago and was forced to retire and lived on a fixed income I gave him my 2010 Chrysler Town & Country a couple years back when I got my 2018 van.. it’s on its last leg. he’s always selfishly giving and doing for others and this would be something that would help him out and keep him safe

Good guy

I am nominating my dad. He is a Vietnam Vet. He is our Hero and many others he knows. He is always helping someone out. Whether its a ride to an appointment or a meeting. He helps people with anything he can do within his power. He is disabled so it does take a toll on him. He loves to cook. Family parties are always well planned and catered. He needs a knee replacement this year and his current vehicle is not in the best of shape and has no A/C. He never asks for help and never does for himself. This would make an old man's life easier. He is a dad, a grandpa, and a great grandpa..

Robert “Butch” Meyer has dedicated 60 years to the Grand Island Fire Company, beginning in high school, serving four years in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, then returning to volunteer again in his community. A certified EMT since 1981, he continues to respond to both fire and EMS calls—over 700 in 2025 alone—while serving as Day Captain. His leadership roles have included Assistant Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Master Mechanic, and Board Member. He was awarded the 2022 Citizen of the Year for Community Service on Grand Island and the 2023 BLS Provider of the Year for the Wyoming-Erie Regional EMS Council. At 78, Butch remains one of the most active members and routinely first on-scene, delivering skilled, compassionate care and inspiring younger members to stay active in the volunteer fire service. His lifelong commitment proves that age is only a number, and his service exemplifies the true spirit of a veteran and first responder.

Her husband who was also a 20 year air force veteran tragically succumbed to PTSD 7 years ago.another vehicle would make life easier for her and her 3 children

Robert “Butch” Meyer has dedicated 60 years to the Grand Island Fire Company, beginning in high school, then serving four years in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, then returning from active duty to volunteer again in his community. A certified EMT since 1981, he continues to respond to both fire and EMS calls—over 700 in 2025 alone—while serving as Day Captain. His leadership roles have included Assistant Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Master Mechanic, and Board Member. He was awarded the 2022 Citizen of the Year for Community Service on Grand Island and the 2023 BLS Provider of the Year for the Wyoming-Erie Regional EMS Council. At 78, Butch remains one of the most active members and routinely first on-scene, delivering skilled, compassionate care and inspiring younger members to stay active in the volunteer fire service. His lifelong commitment proves that age is only a number, and his service exemplifies the true spirit of a veteran and first responder.

I am honored to nominate my daughter, Morgan, for the Vehicles for Vets program. Morgan is a proud United States Air Force veteran who served in Security Forces, protecting and serving with the highest level of dedication and honor. She has carried those same values of integrity, respect, and selflessness into every part of her civilian life. Morgan has always been passionate about helping others. Whether it is lending a hand in the community, supporting fellow veterans, or showing kindness to a stranger, she is the type of person who puts others first. She treats people with respect no matter their background and she leads by example. The past few years have been incredibly challenging for her from personal hardships to financial struggles but she has never let those obstacles define her. Instead, she continues to work hard, stay positive, and push forward with the determination I have admired in her since she was young. A reliable vehicle would make a tremendous difference.

My husband is 63 years old helps everyone and works at least 64 hours weekly.most people retired but my husband still working.He helps most people in are neighbor ,to snow blowing in the winter to taken out elders garbage to cutting grass or weed whacking,never stops always thinking of other's.If someone broke down on the streets he helps them can't think of a better person than him he deserves a lovely new ride .If you need him call he's there if the employees at riders love my husband because he helps them too

My husband the HERO- Let me introduce you to Michael Owens. Michael is a 62 years young firefighter/AEMT for the past 43 years, working for several WNY ambulance companies and three volunteer Fire companies. His story began early as a toddler transporting his "patient"- his teddy bear in a red wagon after applying Band-Aids as first aid. At age 18 he would respond by riding his 10 speed to North Tonawanda Rescue Hose fire company. He then spent the 80s living in the city of Buffalo working security and for ambulance companies until the late 90s when he returned to Niagara County and joined South Lockport Volunteer Fire Co. for 9 years, then Rapids for the past 15. In that time responded to thousands of calls, even being chosen for deployment to ground zero after 9/11. Decades of dedication while working several jobs his 2013 Honda Civic barely holds all his gear needed to respond. He needs a reliable car to respond to calls so he can continue helping his community.

Walter is a hard worker,, has worked in the automotive field before and after his service. He is a great painter and fabricator. He is feeling all the aches of his years of creativity and making people happy with his work. He deserves a little something in return, at 74 he needs to take a step back and enjoy life.

Dani is an incredible human being with a huge heart and cares for his family deeply. He cares for his country and is constantly helping businesses and others grow with the gifting that he has. He has sacrificed much financial opportunity in service of his country and others

Danny has been having a hard time living a civilian life since he has been out. In and out of jobs dealing with people. He is very smart though and tries very hard. I hope and pray he is the person you select.

Daniel was a dedicated air crewman for the United States Navy from 2011 through 2015. He took so much pride in the work that he did, the sacrifices he made, and the protection he provided to the citizens of our country. He gave so much of himself and unfortunately that has left a lasting effect on his health. However, he does not regret any of his time and continues to persevere despite the challenges life brings post military. He is so deserving of this nomination and we will forever be proud of his military commitment and accomplishments.

Butch is a top responder in the Grand Island Volunteer Fire community. He volunteers countless hours for the GI community day or night. He is also a wealth of knowledge when it comes to home appliances and is always helping someone at the drop of a Facebook message.

Robert “Butch” Meyer has dedicated 60 years to the Grand Island Fire Company as a firefighter and EMT. Even after six decades, he remains one of our most active members — answering more than 600 calls since January alone. As Day Captain, Butch responds to emergencies from 6 AM to 10 PM every day and takes one overnight shift each week from 10 PM to 6 AM. He does all of this as a volunteer, using his own personal vehicle to rush to the station or into the community whenever help is needed. Warmhearted, generous, and deeply respected, Butch embodies the very best of the firefighting spirit. A reliable vehicle would help him continue answering calls quickly and serving the people of Grand Island for years to come. For his decades of service, tireless commitment, and the countless lives he’s touched, no one is more deserving of this honor than Robert “Butch” Meyer.

I am nominating Robert “Butch” Meyer for this award in recognition of his extraordinary 60 years of service to the Grand Island Fire Company. Even after six decades, Butch remains one of our most active and top-responding members — answering over 600 calls since January alone. Beyond his impressive call volume, Butch serves as “9-7,” our Day Captain, and represents the department as a proud member of the Benevolent Association. His leadership history includes roles as Assistant Chief, Board of Director, and Master Mechanic. Whether he’s responding to emergencies, mentoring newer members, or lending a hand with repairs, Butch brings unwavering commitment, skill, and heart to everything he does. Warmhearted, generous, and deeply respected by all, Butch embodies the very best of the firefighting spirit. For his decades of service, exceptional dedication, and inspiring example, I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor than Robert “Butch” Meyer.

Chris served 12 years in the army. He foughtbfor Iraqi freedom. He, while won't admit it, has ptsd, and struggles with that. He does what he can to support current and ex-military. But day after day, while it seems he's getting ahead personally and financially, he's always falling behind. He drives a vehicle that is in desperate need of mechanical work, and can't afford another car. This would help him out tremendously.

She is very nice and respectful person. Very humble and doesn’t like receiving recognition. She was a top gun pilot in the navy. She had over 200 kills in the Iraq war. Many times she won’t talk about them. She’s a wonderful woman.

Allen is an Eagle Scout, volunteers at a local fire company, works as a parametic, teaches classes for EMS and works as a Sharifs Reserve. He has been a top 10 responder at his fire company several times. He is married and has 1 child.

Lee is an amazing human being! He hasn’t always had it easy. The military was a continuation of a path to keep Lee focused and out of trouble! It worked. Lee is now a productive, hardworking, member of our community! He deserves so much more than a vehicle! May he have 2? lol

To better quality of life

Colin just moved home to Buffalo from Colorado. He is a 90% disabled veteran and struggling to get on his feet and get another car and to live on his own. His car finally gave out on him right before he moved.

My husband is the a truly worth candidate. He is always going above and beyond for his family, job and community. He is a constant in environmental conservation and is often at youth hunts and hunter safety. Kevin is heavily involved in our community assisting in coach youth sports and partaking in charity events. He was involved in Hunters Hope, a fund dedicated to helping a little boy with terminal cancer. He was able to see the little boys wish of being a part of the DEC. Hunter was awarded a JR Officer of the DEC through all the work of Kevin. Kevin had been the led in many search and rescue missions and is constantly sharping his skills through trainings and advocating for more officer trainings. All in all, Kevin a the rock of our home, our community and our Church. I am sure there are many worthy canines out there. I would live to see him formally recognized but he is already recognized in our family and community as a All Star.

To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to proudly nominate Desiree Milton for your vehicle giveaway. Desiree is not only a dedicated worker, but also a beacon of light to everyone she encounters. She brings warmth, compassion, and positivity into every room she enters, touching the lives of all her patients with her unwavering commitment and extended care. Her work ethic and dedication are unmatched—there are days she has walked over 14 miles just to get to work, ensuring her patients receive the care they deserve. Even during her transition from North Carolina, Desiree made sacrifices without seeking recognition. Few people knew that during that time, she stayed in her vehicle while continuing to deliver exceptional care to each patient, never allowing personal hardship to affect the quality of her work. Recently, she faced another major challenge when her car was totaled after another driver ran a red light. Yet, through all of this, Desiree never missed a single day of work.

Braydon was recently in a motorcycle accident that was not his fault, resulting in the loss of a portion of his right leg. As soon as the accident happened one of his only concerns was if he would still have a career in the military and law enforcement. Braydon is devoted to helping others and has maintained a wonderful strong spirit despite the accident. I feel Braydon’s nomination stands out due to his resilience and genuine fight to continue to serve his country.

My good friend Braydon had a devastating motorcycle accident last month and lost his right leg, he’s been in the hospital for weeks. Braydon is the nicest and most caring, lovable, generous person I know. He’s loved by many people and I think he deserves to get nominated for this give away. He’s helped me and many others get through tough times and is always there for you when you need it the most!

My dad is a wonderful father, friend, grandfather & was active in our local law enforcement for almost 37 years. He was in the marines for 4 years, then dedicated his services to the Eire county Sheriffs department where he provided and protected. My father is battling a very very rare blood cancer called Polycythemia Vera which has affected him for 16 years. If he were to win this vehicle it would be life changing for us & him, he has dedicated so much time & love into this community. We are a family of first responders, something he passed to every single one of us. Thank you.

My husband is amazing. He's a disabled Veteran he was in Vietnam. He's had 14 back/neck surgeries and had stomach surgery and the past four years has had issues with his feet and unable to walk but he's gets around by scooter and still drives and it's amazing he is still here to tell his story. He loves his family & friends and helps them whenever he can.

During Covid he was one of the few paramedics that would transport patients from the Buffalo Hospitals to the "Covid" hospital St. Josephs in Cheektowaga. During the beginning of Covid, many were afraid of contracting it, and along with healthcare workers, not knowing much about it. With a team of respiratory therapists, nurses and doctors coordinating the patients care, he would ride in the back of the ambulance to the hospital, Jim would take care of them like his own family, and for some, that would be one of their last contact with another human. He gives his heart to the day to every patient that he still transports. Please consider this selfless HERO!

Benjamin served his local community in Western New York in the National Guard, and was called up to active duty in the Army twice to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, where he served in combat and became permanently disabled. Benjamin now works as a sheriff’s deputy at the Erie County Holding Center and is a devoted father and husband.

Went to Vietnam and served while others were protesting or making excuses for not being able to participate. Then got spit on when he arrived back

He is the most hardworking man I have ever met In my life! He has worked so hard to get where he is today! I look up to him so much he is a great leader!!!

I am nominating my father, a hardworking veteran, to win a truck because of his selfless service to our country. My father has made immense sacrifices for the well-being of others and has truly embodied the values of dedication and service. As a veteran, he has put his life on the line to protect our freedoms and deserves to be recognized and rewarded for his bravery and commitment. Winning a new truck would not only make his life easier but also show him that his service has not been forgotten. My father's dedication to his country and his family makes him a deserving candidate for this nomination, and I believe that winning a truck would be a small way to honor his service and show appreciation for all that he has done for others.

I want to nominate my father who’ is always the first person to help anyone in need . He puts everyone else’s needs in front of his . He has always helped me out and been there for me , I would love to see him win a car :)!! Especially because not too long ago, someone. Ran a red light and hit my parents car and totaled it . My father has always taken good care of his vehicles and after this accident of course you never get the money that your car is actually worth especially when you’ve taken great care of your car . Now he is forced to look for a new vehicle. My dad has worked hard all his life and I would love if he won a new car :)!! Thank you !!

I am nominating Officer Lance Woods for the basil vehicles for vets and first responders. Officer Woods is an outstanding officer who always looks out for the people in the community , and goes above and beyond to help those who are in need. Officer Woods day in and day out serves his community with dignity and grace in making sure that he keeps the residents of Buffalo safe, whether he is helping out with patrolling the Buffalo public schools / neighborhood. Officer Woods has been serving his community proudly with the Buffalo police department since 2008. With 17 years on the force and several nominations for what he brings to his community in saving and protecting others. I believe Officer Woods is the perfect candidate for this nomination.

He did three separate tours. He is the most generous and thoughtful man I’ve ever met. He has taken in two children that needed homes in the past 3 years all while raising his own . He deserves some recognition

Malysa Clark has proudly served in the New York Army National Guard for over 15 years, demonstrating steadfast dedication and leadership throughout her military career. A committed officer, she has undertaken challenging assignments both at home and abroad, including deployments overseas in support of national and global missions. Known for her professionalism and resilience, Captain Clark balances the demands of military service with her role as a devoted wife and mother of two. Her service reflects a deep commitment not only to her country, but also to the values of honor, duty, and family, inspiring those around her both in uniform and in her community.

Lance goes above and beyond for everyone and is always putting himself last. From all he does at work as a police officer, working as an SRO in schools. Hes involved with the youth, showing up for them even when its not " part of the job description" he shows up to their graduations, not because he has to but because he wants to, He buys them school supplies, brings the less fortunate kids snacks and or purchases them meals. At home lance is an amazing father and husband. He has 2 sons ages 10 and 6. Hes older son is special needs both ADHD and high functioning autism. His wife is a stay at home mom to their 2 children, Lance sacrifices so his family can drive in a newer vehicle.He drives a twenty years old, barely running beat up nissan maxima that's litterly falling apart. With the xost of inflation and expenses ro provide for everyone else he can't afford to purchase a vehicle but deserves not only a new vehicle,but to be recognized for all to silent good, he brings to our community

He is a single father of a 9 year old girl. Trying to make ends meet being a girl dad. Has had sole custody for last 3 years following an abduction that caused a lengthy court battle. His vehicle hasn't been on the road for 2 years due to frame not passing, but still paying on it Maintaining a 100+ year old house requires a lot of money. Finances are tight.

Served in Iraqi Freedom and deserves it be honored for sacrificing his life for our freedom. While he came home safe back to family, he deals everyday with the effects of serving in a combat position on the front lines in the battle of Najaf and was a tow missile operator on the Hum- V’s. He struggles either ptsd from what he endured in battle alongside his fellow brothers and sisters. He currently is married with two little girls and is a proud marine and to have served his country for us all.

CPT Horn was always a consummate professional and battle buddy to all he served with. He always took the time to be there for his soldiers. I have always thought of him when thinking of what makes this country great and those who serve.

David serves as in Investigator, on the Emergency Response Team, Firearms Instructor, Critical Intervention Team, Drug Recognition Expert and Field Training Officer for the Genesee County Sheriffs Office. David is dedicated to the safety of others and protecting those in this community while also remaining a dedicated husband and loving father. He is an inspiration to all. He is hardworking, shows great perseverance and upstanding morals. If we were all even a little like David, the world would be a much better place.

He’s a lifetime vet all about family and doing what he can

My dad deserves to be nominated because he is amazing father and grandfather. He is a pillar in our family and our community. He is a ray of sunshine and light to everyone that he encounters. His service in the military has always been a leading example for all of his children and grandchildren. After his time in the Air Force he worked to provide for his family as a postal worker, meals on wheels and now retired his service has not stopped he is now a Minister at Fillmore community Church SBC in Buffalo NY where he helps out with outreach, Bible study and Preaches every third Sunday of the month. I feel he is most deserving of this nomination just so some light can be shined on him for his leadership and ample qualities. He does so much for everyone around him and getting this recognition is just a small contribution I can do to recognize him.

He is the epitome of a great man. I’ve known him for the past 5 years and he shows kindness, courage, selflessness, loyalty and leadership. He is also a loving father and grandfather and does everything he can for his family and the community.

Raymond Slaughter is very self righteous and generous man. I’ve known him for the past 5 years, and he’s nothing but loving, caring, selflessness and loyal. He is a living son, husband, father and grandfather and will do anything for his family and the community.

My dad, Thomas Smith, is an Army Veteran who served right out of high school. He is disabled and does his absolute best to provide for his 4 daughters and does everything he can for us. He puts himself last for everything in life and has been needing a new car, but any money goes towards his daughters. He’s been driving around an old car that has been having issues, doesn’t do well in the Buffalo weather, and is starting to peel from the rust. He loves his family, friends, and our country. I am an AEMT, and my father has been my biggest supporter in becoming an EMT and then getting my advanced. He wishes he could become a driver for my volunteer company to work alongside myself, but his disability wouldn’t allow in emergency situations. There’s nobody more deserving, nobody more selfless, kind, and giving.

A father of 2 adult children, he served 22 years active-duty military. Making 8 deployments overseas including two to Iraq (one for a full year) and one to Afghanistan. He was also stationed over the years in Iceland. He is always willing to help others and never really asks for help. His kindness and generosity are seen by all. He is an inspiration to all and because of this I nominate him.

I am nominating Tony Lachina as he has suffered PTSD ever since retiring from the Marines. He realized something was wrong with him. He served in Vietnam from September 1967 to October 1969.He sought counseling at the Veteran's Hospital for over 30 years until his social worker retired..He was honorably discharged attaining many medals including the Purple Heart, He has had a difficult socializing and doing normal activities. He is my hero in all that he has tried to accomplish. It is difficult for him to get close to his children and family members.If he is lucky enough to be considered it would greatly be an honor,

My brother is a true American hero whose service didn’t end when he took off the uniform. He proudly served in both the U.S. Air Force and Army, and continues to serve his community with unwavering compassion. A devoted minister, he feeds the homeless, gives away clothing, and uplifts those in need with dignity and grace. As chaplain for the local VFW post, he provides spiritual support to fellow veterans, always putting others before himself. He’s a loving father to seven children and a proud grandfather of twelve, and somehow still finds time to be the best big brother anyone could ask for. His life is a testament to selflessness, faith, and resilience. A free car would not only honor his legacy—it would help him continue his mission of service. He’s never asked for recognition, but he deserves it more than anyone I know.

Joe is a third generation Firefighter / EMT with the Bowmansville Vol. Fire Assn. Joe was a charter member of Bowmansville's Explorer Post 56 and has been active with the Bowmansville Fire Department for over 25 years. Joe has served has EMS Captain and EMS lieutenant as well as serving on many committees. He has been an EMS Instructor for many years teaching new EMT's and CFR's all over Erie and Niagara County. Joe works as Dispatcher for AMR and Erie County Emergency Services. In addition Joe is an Eagle Scout and stays active as a Leader in Troop 601. A new vehicle will help Joe continue to travel all over the county to continue his instructor work.

My dad is a 75 yr old man who loves in a quite town of cassadaga most of his life with his wife and 4 children he was the best daddy a daughter could have !! He worked full time while he took care of his family and live on a dairy goat farm !! He served 15 yrs in tge Navy and was also a volunteer fireman for 25yrs or so !! He also took on responsibility of raising his disabled grandson after finally adopting him as his own !! He's very active in his church and his grandkids activities!! After almost 50yrs of marriage he lost my mom during covid and has since kept himself busy he is struggling as most elderly are at this point in his life and his car is in need of help and I'd love to give him something he deserves after all these yrs of very hard work and a very amazing man and father he is ,I'd also be so very grateful for the help he deserves!! Thank u so much and hope you can help him !!

Some heroes never stop serving—Jeff Leiser is one of them. I’m proud to nominate Jeff for the Basil Vehicle for Vets. A veteran who now builds aerospace components for the military, he brings loyalty, hard work, and a great sense of humor to every day. A devoted husband, father, and grandpa, Jeff does all the right things but drives a vehicle with nearly 170,000 miles. He never asks for recognition, yet gives his best to his family, his job, and his country. A reliable vehicle would help him keep providing, commuting, and continuing his quiet, steadfast service to others. Please award Jeff Leiser a reliable vehicle!

Bill has always been the most selfless caring person I've ever known. Just recently, we were at a local fast food restaurant, and a young girl asked us if we would buy her a meal. Bill did not hesitate to purchase her a meal. He learned that her family was recently in a bad situation and he gave her an additional gift of money. If we are in a grocery store and an individual does not have enough money to buy their groceries, Bill always pitches in. He's a huge animal lover and has literally picked up turtles from roadways and returned them to ponds. Not once, but twice, we found baby birds that had fallen under the street grates. Both times he picked under ground to rescue them. He is kind to everyone and literally willing to offer his meal or his own shirt to feed or clothe someone in need. If he sees somebody on the side of the road, he always pulls over to make sure they're okay. He doesn't like rewards and prefers to remain anonymous. I feel his big heart needs recognition.

I am so very proud to nominate my SON-in-law, Chief Carl Karcher of the US Navy, stationed in Jacksonville, FL. Carl is from WNY. He joined the Navy in 2010 & is an active-duty MH-60 Romeo Helicopter Aircrewman with over 2,200 flight hours. He has deployed 4 times. Carl’s accomplishments are many (Flight Instructor, Master Training Specialist, Combat Lifesaver & Search and Rescue Program Command Evaluator). He is a qualified Aviation Rescue Swimmer, Sensor Operator and Door Gunner. While serving, Carl also pursed and earned his BS Degree. With all that he has given proudly serving for the Navy, he also is a dedicated, loving husband to my daughter Alyssa and the most amazing father to their daughter Eloise. Carl goes out of his way to help others, even taking a 2-week leave this summer to come help my husband and me while my husband battles cancer. He is an amazing guy and is very deserving of this nomination.

Bill served 37 years as a Buffalo Firefighter and 25 as a Twin District Volunteer. He’s spent his life answering every call—for his department, his neighbors, and total strangers. Whether it’s a fire, a snowstorm, or someone broken down on the side of the road, Bill is always the first to show up and the last to leave. In 2019, he was injured in a fire and underwent a knee and shoulder replacement—but he never let it stop him. After years away, he's back volunteering, continuing the work he loves. Bill gives without expecting anything in return

He is a compassionate, carrying young man, he became a firefighter to help people. He always prioritizing others before himself. He takes pride in his work. It’s not just a paycheck for him. When he talks about the lives, he saved to be so enthusiastic and full of joy. If he had to lose his life in order to save someone else’s, that will be the way he would want it.

Courtney is a kind considerate young man that cares about people & puts them first which is why he became a firefighter.

I nominate my niece Kyla Gayton. I’ve watched this young woman grow and persevere through adversity in a southern town in Western NY. Raised by a single mother who has served our mental health community as a Registered Nurse, it hasn’t been easy. Through it all, Kyla maintained high averages throughout high school and received nearly full scholarships to a college of her choice. STILL, she enlisted in the ROTC to pursue a dream of following in the footsteps of her Uncle Lance, Major Lance Newton, who served proudly for 27 years and her Grandpa Torrey who served proudly during the Vietnam Era. Kyla was attending St. Bonaventure when she was called to duty during the correctional facility strikes. Again, she persevered while driving a 15 yr old car. She now returns to school and is a weekend warrior. Kyla has high goals of education combined with a life long military career to serve our country. Salute Kyla! You are the Epitome of greatness. We and your country are so proud of you.

I am nominating an incredible Navy veteran, Paul Rodriguez, who has given everything for his country and continues to fight courageously. This time against his cancer, again. He has never owned a new car and currently shares one, which makes daily life and his upcoming treatments in Buffalo, starting September 9, extremely challenging. This man is the definition of selflessness and strength. He helped raise our kids from the time they were babies and has always been there for our family. His dedication, hard work, and love for both his country and those around him are unmatched. Now living with us so we can support him through this battle, he continues to inspire us every day with his resilience and positive spirit. A new, reliable car would not just be transportation it would be a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a dream come true for someone who has sacrificed so much for others. He deserves this more than anyone I know. Pick him as the winner. He deserves so much.

Nomination Letter for Firefighter Courtney Davis To the Esteemed Awards Committee, It is with great honor and profound respect that I submit this nomination for Firefighter Courtney Davis of the Buffalo Fire Department. In a profession where courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment are daily expectations, Firefighter Davis stands out as an extraordinary example of what it means to wear the uniform and serve both department and community. From the moment Firefighter Davis joined the Buffalo Fire Department, it was clear that this was more than just a career—it was a calling. With a steadfast dedication to protecting lives and property, Davis has consistently demonstrated a level of professionalism, reliability, and bravery that elevates the entire department. His performance on the fireground, his compassion for the people he serves, and his leadership among peers combine to make him a truly deserving nominee for this recognition.

Stand up guy

Mark served six years in the Marine Corps; 3 of those years were in Okinawa Japan. His specialty was port call chief and was tasked with procuring flights for Marines on military and commercial airlines. Mark loved the Marines more than anything! He wanted to make a career out of it but was discharged in 1992 for acquiring type I (juvenile) diabetes. He made the best of this new opportunity and completed a bachelor's degree in business from Hilbert College. Now he works at SLC Therapy as a reimbursement specialist. SLC Therapy of WNY provides early intervention therapy services for children with special needs. Mark is a family man and likes to spend all of his free time with me and our 2 children. I want him to have this honor because he does so much to help others and he always treats people with kindness and respect. Unselfish but proud is a good way to describe him. As they say, "once a Marine, always a Marine! Thank you so much for honoring our Vets and first responders!

Jessica is the strongest, most compassionate, and hard working woman I know. All through starting our family of 7 she has tackled her schooling and career as a registered nurse. Once her heart is set on something, there is no stopping her. I nominate this amazing woman!

My husband has been working for Twin City Ambulance since 1990, working up the ladder from EMT, EMT-I, Paramedic, and nowba Paramedic Supervisor. My husband will be 71 in October., still works 48+ hours a week, still cares for the job and patients. The job has taken a toll on him physically, with 2 Rotator cuff repairs, left hip replacement, left knee surgery, back problems, and now needs a right hip replacement. He refuses to retire, because has not lost the desire to help people. He has a 2018 RAV 4, and signed up for CarShield, because we can't afford a new car. Please consider him. Thank you

Jarrod is my husband and is one of the most selfless and hard working people I’ve ever met. He has had a rough few years after losing his mother, grandfather, aunt and us going through several miscarriages. We joke about our bad luck sometimes, so him winning anything would be amazing.

Jeremy is a disabled veteran who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Although he is only 26, he has spent the majority of his adult life serving his country and making sacrifices many people his age don’t make anymore. He never brags about his service and typically keeps to himself about the things he has experienced. After getting out of the Marine Corps, he has moved back to Buffalo from San Diego and is working hard every day to help provide for his family. Jeremy always puts everyone before himself and his family would love to see him win a new vehicle to show our appreciation for all he’s done for us and his country!

Served 34 years which includes active duty, National Guard and Reserves. Retired military and earned it

One of the most devoted and hard working man we know. He deserves recognition for all his has done for our nation and our community’s. He helps so many veterans and elderly in nursing homes. Always a helping had.

My dad has served his country and dealt with PTSD and panic attacks since he got out, he currently drives an Old Jeep that I have been helping him keep running and I think he could use an upgrade

They go above and beyond for everyone. He left the Air Force and began helping and advocating for our elderly. A Great man that deserves to be recognized.

My father fought hard for his country like everyone else who will be nominated here, but he also fought hard for his family. When he came home from the military betrayed by his wife, he didn't let it ruin him. Instead he worked harder. He worked several jobs at a time, sought help through therapy, got a degree and raised 3 kids through it all. By himself. He didn't have help, his kids were crazy but had a home, good food, and good education. He deserves more than I could ever repay him for raising me well. I am on my way to be a licensed special needs therapist, and my father has continued to support me through all of my ups and downs. I want him to be nominated because he gives all his love and effort into what he does, whether it's the military, cooking, going to school, his work, or raising a family. He deserves the same love and effort back.

Stanley is my dad! He is a man that would help anyone and everyone. My father has battled prostate cancer and won. Through out that journey he has set his truck on the back burner and after retirement it is hard for him to even think about getting a new vehicle. Now my father is working a part time job and helping my mother through her breast cancer journey. My father is a wonderful person and an amazing dad who is always there for his children in any way that he can be. If he was to win a new vehicle I know it would change his life and help him so much.

Military veteran that suffers from social ptsd, working to sustain and maintain public housing. The veteran is continuing education by being enrolled in culinary school. The veteran feels that having a vehicle would help them build up social confidence from public transportation anxiety.

I proudly nominate Jeremy Jefferson for this opportunity. Jeremy is a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud U.S. Navy veteran who honorably served our country during the Iraq War. His commitment to both his family and his nation reflects his selflessness and strength of character. Throughout his military service, Jeremy sacrificed time with his loved ones to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. Since returning home, he has continued to serve as a role model in his community, demonstrating resilience, integrity, and dedication in everything he does. As a husband and father, Jeremy puts his family first, working tirelessly to provide and ensuring they always feel supported and loved. Winning would be a blessing for Jeremy but also a well-deserved recognition of his sacrifices and service. It would ease the daily burdens of transportation for his family and symbolize the appreciation we all feel for veterans like him, who have given so much.

I am nominating wood artist Mike "Cousin" Kelly for a new or used Basil vehicle due to him always helping out Veterans with being on call & other ways he humbly volunteers & also being a artistic legend in the Buffalo NY area. He is currently a wood artist & is known around the Elmwood Village & Allentown area as his father was involved with the beginnings of the Allentown Art Festival. Mike, or Cousin as he prefers, has created over 40 wood pieces around the city including a train carving at the Central Terminal. I met him recently at a yard sale in Depew & the simple conversation flowed easily with him showing me pictures of his carvings that he does. We had just cleared a portion of our land in Elma & gave him some large tree trunks for free to carve. We didn't realize that the van he drives has over 300k miles & many issues. He uses this van to haul his wood carvings to locations, his volunteer work, to support local new musicians by attending their shows & promoting them. Thanks!

He’s the best dad in the world and he’s help all of us in our family more than we could ever give back to him!! We are also struggling with a driving situation in our family and another car would really help us out. He also deserves a new car because of how much he’s helped me out and our family!!!

My father (Jonathan Spiegel) served in the army for four years. Has been a volunteer firefighter for over 25 years. In his time of being inactive he has gotten my siblings cars and has fixed said cars. He has also allowed me and my siblings to drive his personal cars, even taking one to collage. He always drives the oldest one. I believe he of all people is deserving of this.

Michael is a volunteer firefighter. He is committed to helping in his community. He was Firefighter of the Year for 2024. He keeps calm in the midst of serious situations and does whatever is needed. He started out as a Junior firefighter at 16 years old. He continues to learn and rise in the ranks.

I’ve never met anyone who would go out of his way to help another person more than my husband. He gave his car to our son so he could be safe driving to college. He gave his next car to our other son and same for our daughter. Now the car he has been driving, the oldest car we own, has stopped working and I’d like him to have a car to keep him safe going to work. He also is a first responder for Orchard Park.

I am nominating my brother Justin kiesznoski because for as long as I can remember he has always put others before himself. Anytime anyone has needed anything he has been right there doing whatever he could to help out. There is no limit to his kindness and generosity, he would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He has always been there for me whenever I needed help or advice. A short time ago I got hurt at work and was going further into debt with being out of work and my brother allowed me to move in with him rent free just so I can get out of debt. He is currently going through a rough patch right now, he has one vehicle down and one that's in and out of the shop, and financially he is hurting, and he is in need of a reliable vehicle for his wife and kids to get them to appointments and functions. I think he deserves this opportunity for all the good that he puts into the world. That's the type of person my brother is and that's why I think he deserves a new vehicle.

Bill served with the same dedication and crap he has to anything he puts his mind to. He's like the best little brother that could have ever walked into my life. I could say a lot about Bill's stand up character, how he handles his struggles with quiet reserve, or how he looks out for his friends and family and more of it would be a lie. He's been there for me and my family thick and thin. It's time this guy got a break and a new ride.

I am nominating my son, a dedicated veteran of both the US Marine Corps and the US Air Force, for a car giveaway as a way to recognize his years of selfless service to our country. Having been deployed several times, he has faced numerous challenges, in defense of our freedom. His commitment, sacrifice, and resilience in both branches of service make him incredibly deserving of a reward like this. Throughout his military career, he has shown unwavering commitment to his duties, his fellow service members, and his country. After years of serving our nation, transitioning to civilian life can be difficult, and this car would not only provide him with the mobility and independence he deserves but also symbolize the appreciation we all have for his hard work and sacrifices. I am proud to nominate him for this opportunity, as it would be a meaningful gesture of thanks for everything he has given to our country.

I’m nominating my husband for this car giveaway to honor his dedication, sacrifices, and service to our country. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the USMC and deployed to Kosovo, Macedonia, and Albania for Operation Allied Force. He then assisted with humanitarian aid in Turkey after a devastating earthquake. After his honorable discharge, he joined the USAF as a Computer and Intelligence Analyst and deployed to Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He later reenlisted in the Air Force and served until his contract ended. Throughout his military career, he faced dangerous and challenging situations, always working selflessly to protect others. His commitment to both his service and family has been unwavering. I want to give back by nominating him for something that will acknowledge his sacrifices. This car would symbolize the recognition and appreciation he truly deserves for all he's done for his family and country.

I am nominating Justin Tweed because of the way he never gives up when trying to accomplish things, even when they seem impossible. His served our country during 9/11. He has suffered with PTSD since returning but still moves forward. Justin should be nominated because he loves our country, his family & is always the first person to offer help or lend a hand if it’s needed. No questions asked.

Justin served in Operation Freedom, Southern Watch & operation Noble Eagle during 9/11. He has struggled with PTSD since his return but he always gives 100% of himself. He is loyal to his family & Is always the first to lend a hand I. Helping others. I feel Justin should be nominated because he loves his country, works hard for his family & continues to be. Better man everyday.

This is my son-in-law and he has been an amazing husband and dad to my daughter and their kids. First of all when he met her she was a widow with 3 young children. He not only fell in love with her but loved her children and if they were his natural born kids. When he got out of the navy they moved to the Baltimore area to help his grandmother. She was having difficulties keeping her home so they moved in with her and helped her keep her home. After she developed Alzheimer she got to the place where they could no longer take care of her. That is when they moved here to this area so she could be near me (her mother). on April 20 2024 they lost their home and everything they owned to a house fire and was pretty much forced to move into my very tiny basement. and within the next 6 months they lost both of their vehicles to motor vehicle accidents. After struggling for a few months they were able to purchase another vehicle. Since they both work they are struggling get both to work

Mr moody has been a friend and customer of our deli for 9.5 years. He has been so generous to his family, church, friends, kids, secret Santa, and helping vets. He always puts others first and and lives without. One time he borrowed his truck to his niece and w in one week she hit a tree and totaled it . I’m proud to nominate my friend and life story teller Mr moody and he was well known by 600 customers at the deli every morning 6:30am for coffee

i am nominating franklin everett because: he has always put his family first. While in the army he met my mother in germany who also served. after retiring from the army after 22 years of service. he joined the ems and fire dept where he became chief 502. and finally retired from that in 2015. he has dedicted the rest of his time to his 6 grandkids all boys and three daughters. he has alway put his family first. i think this would be a blessing for him. because he never asks for anything.

My son, Nate volunteered 5 yrs with the Marines and continued his service to community after discharge by joining the Grand Island Volunteer Fire Dept. Soon, he starts classes to increase his service to the firehall by becoming an EMT. A dependable car would be invaluable to him to make it to and from school!

Nathan served the US Marine Corps for 5 yrs. Upon discharge he volunteered For the Grand Island Fire Dept. To expand his service to the community he is registered for EMT classes at Daemon University. A dependable car would be a significant help to him.

Nick is an amazing young man! He is incredibly unselfish as he takes much of his free time to serve other veterans through PGA Hope and also his charitable foundation Team Fast. He is constantly trying to find creative ways to engage veterans in activities such as golf, horseback riding, hunting, and fishing. He could really use this vehicle to help transport Veterans to appointments and to locations that are hosting events.

I wholeheartedly nominate Nick Martone, a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, devoted single father, and tireless advocate for veterans. Nick served honorably with the Marines, deploying twice—including to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. After returning home, he founded Team Fast Foundation, a nonprofit that helps veterans reconnect, heal, and thrive through fitness, recreation, and community. He also volunteers with PGA Hope, using golf as a tool for healing and camaraderie. Behind his service, Nick faces the daily challenges of raising his children as a single father while balancing financial hardships. Despite these struggles, he gives endlessly of himself to ensure veterans never feel forgotten. Winning a car would ease the burden on his family while expanding his ability to support even more veterans. Nick has never asked for recognition, but his actions speak volumes. This gift would honor his sacrifices and allow him to continue making a profound difference

Andy served in the US army, 82nd airborne from 2003-2008. He served 3 tours in Iraq during that time and received a Bronze star, among other awards. Upon separating from the army, he joined the Rochester Police Department and is on year 16. He is a member of their SWAT team and continues to put himself in dangerous situations to protect and serve.

My dad served in over 13 countries and has been an amazing dad that has always tried to make us happy and cared for. I wish I could give him something for his hard work and that he was in the Marines. He is always in pain but always struggles to do stuff with me and my sister. He’s a really great guy that has never complained even when I see him struggling.

My husband, Benjamin, is a veteran of the US Army. He served faithfully for 26 years, participating in multiple deployments during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving active duty, Benji has not only continued to work full-time but also undertook training to become a volunteer firefighter and EMT with NYS serving with the Grand Island Fire Company. Helping people in need is in Benji’s DNA. He is always there to help people whether it’s by doing odd jobs or rescuing them from a broken down vehicle on the side of the road. He has never asked for any recognition of any kind. He is a dedicated father and a wonderful husband who has worked tirelessly to provide for his family and this nomination is the least I could do for him.

I am nominating Nick Martone, a proud Marine veteran, for his unwavering dedication to supporting veterans through golf and community initiatives. Nick was instrumental in helping OnCore Golf expand its involvement with PGA HOPE on a national level, bringing the game to countless veterans across the country. Through his foundation, Team FAST, he works tirelessly to provide resources, opportunities, and a sense of belonging for veterans in our community. His leadership, passion, and service embody the highest values of both the military and the game of golf.

My husband served as Military Intelligence for 9 years. 3 of those spent in South Korea. We met while we were both in Kuwait and married 6 months later! He was an amazing soldier and is a great husband, Dad and friend. He’s very humble and deserving of this generous give away!

My dad was one of the hardest working people I've ever met. Because of his tour in vietnam as a marine he contracted agent orange and was forced to retire early for his healths sake. After beating prostate cancer amongst other medical obstacles he remains one of the strongest people I've ever met.

Joseph Porempski enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1966–1969 during the Vietnam War, including two and a half years in Germany before completing his service at Fort Knox, Kentucky, as a Personnel Specialist. After his discharge, he joined the American Legion, rising to Department Vice Commander, while his late wife, with his support, achieved leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels within the American Legion Auxiliary. Joe remains active in veterans’ affairs, attending state and national conventions and serving in multiple capacities. Locally, he is a dedicated member of Francis J. Donovan Post #1626 in Cheektowaga, where he chairs the Boys State program, and he also serves on the Town of Cheektowaga Veterans Committee. Through decades of service, Joe continues to exemplify commitment to veterans, community, and country.

Lucia was an officer in the Air Force in Biloxi, Mississippi, as a nurse officer she was traumatized by Katrina suffers from some emotional distress and always cared to get back to the communities thru chirches and any convern for others at the sacrifice of her own needs. I think she would find a gift as a exciting reward and her search for a newrer reliable vehicle.

John has got such an awesome heart, and he has worked hard his whole life to take care of his wife and family. He is a devoted member of our church, and although he and his wife Lois have been battling physical ailments for quite some time, he is full of love, care and concern for others. A new car would help them tremendously, to have something reliable and safe to drive to their medical appointments and to see their church family.

This man is the most selfless man I know. He is ALWAYS there if anyone needs anything. He constantly has to fix his truck, as it falls apart constantly, but will always answer any call for help.he fundraises for less fortunate and spends so much time to benefit others. He deserves a reliable vehicle so he can not worry and just continue doing what he does, SERVE. Please consider him, I don't know anyone more deserving.

Bobby joined when he was 19. Struggled all through life and had nothing but he knew one thing, he wanted to serve his country. Now he takes care of everyone before himself. With his dad diagnosed with cancer and having 6 months to live, I feel this will be the best gift to give to Bobby for his selfless service in the military and even out of it

I am honored to nominate Jesse Gerdes for this recognition. He has served multiple countries in the Air Force and continues his dedication to helping others through community service, including environmental clean-up efforts. Currently working as a nurse assistant, he is a dependable and compassionate co-worker who always supports the team and puts patients first. This week, he began nursing school to further his dream of serving others through healthcare. His passion, hard work, and selflessness inspire those around him. I truly believe he deserves this benefit and recognition for his commitment to making a difference.

Austin spent 6 years in the army, which included a deployment in Afghanistan. Since then, he has continued to devote his time to public services. In being a wild-land firefighter out west, a Mercy Flight EMT, and now a full-time cardiac/pulmonary ICU nurse and volunteer firefighter, his accomplishments are something to celebrate.

I've seen this "kid" become a man in the 6 years he served in the Air Force and joined the Reserves because " he missed it".. He was one of the many that served in the state prison system during the CO strike. Just looking at the way he carries himself , his posture , his confidence , dedication to the service and his obvious patriotism..He currently works as an IT Administrator at a local bank and was recently promoted ..

I am nominating him because he is my father. He is one of the hardest working people I know in my life. He lets me drive his car to college just so I can be safe. He worked for the military but also he worked as an EMT this just shows how much he loves looking after people making sure they are safe.

I cannot think of a more deserving individual. Julie put the first in first responder. As an RN she is always the first one to step up when there are staffing shortages within the medical department. She is always compassionate not only to her patients but also her coworkers. JShe was recently given more responsibility with security and supervision. When she's sees a policy being violated within facility she will correct it immediately. Please consider JulieAnn for this amazing honor.

Anthony “Tony” and Katherine “Katie” Solina are my nominees for the Basil “Vehicles for Vets” program. The Solinas are a young couple who both grew up in the Buffalo area and are both US Army Veterans. After they married they decided they wanted to raise their family in the rural countryside and settled on a nice ranch-style home in the Town of Arcade in Wyoming County. The Solina family now includes daughter Alessandra age 7, and sons Angelo is 5, Enzo is 3 and baby Rocco 18 months. Tony enlisted in the United States Army became a SGT Calvary Scout 2005-2009 right out of High School. Katie enlisted in the US Army National Guard. They served during the Gulf War and the War on Terror. Tony was deployed overseas in Afghanistan. During his time in the service, he was hurt and now has a 100% disability rating from the VA — I need more space

AJ served 10 years in the United States Air Force in Security Forces. He is a Desert Storm veteran who was hit from behind by an armored truck causing long term damage and is now scheduled for back surgery to hopefully finally relieve him of pain. He was awarded 100% VA Disability (unemployable) and is a retired Deputy Sheriff from Erie County, retiring in 2023 after 30 years of dedicated service. He is more than deserving of this nomination.

I am wanting to nominate my father for honoring his service in the military and dedication to volunteering his life everyday being a first responder (EMT)/ firefighter. My father has always been the person that has wanted to give back because he’s always cared for others. Growing up he has given up so much of his own for my three brothers, I, and most importantly my mom. He sold his favorite truck before I was even born so that His family had a bigger and safer car for my mom to drive. My father has also given up many opportunities to buy a new car for himself so that my brothers and I could get a car that was safe to drive, and that we didn’t have to pay for. My father willingly sacrifices his life to drive a 15 year old Tahoe that is constantly breaking down to work an hour away everyday so that his children and wife has a new safe car that we take to school and work. Due to this, I want to give back to my Dad so he can be honored for his service and come home safely to his family.

My wife is still currently serving in the United States Air Force and has 25 years of honorable service. She was recently promoted to E-9, Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted grade you can reach. She is the Senior Enlisted Leader for the 136th Attack Squadron, Niagara Falls, NY. Her technical job is a Sensor Operator on the MQ-9 Reaper Remotely Piloted Aircraft (drone) flying it all over the world in support of combat operations.

Tony & Katie are both disabled US Army Veterans. Tony was a Calvary Scout 2005-2009 in Afghanistan. They are struggling along on one salary trying to raise 4 children in Arcade, NY, Since the kids are small Katie can't work and Tony has a Wyoming County job assisting veterans. I am certain it is hard to cover bills like a mortgage, food for 6, clothing, utilities, health care with one salary. They drive 2 old vehicles, 1980 Ford Ranger and 2016 SUV. They can't even fit the kids all in one vehicle when they want to go somewhere. They are both involved with the American Legion, Scouting and are raising the children in the Catholic Church. I would like to see if we could get them a vehicle that all 6 could fit in. Then maybe Tony could get a newer vehicle to drive to work - 20 miles each way. I would like to send my full write up and more pictures, but I am limited with this way of submitting the nomination.

My husband flew in the evacuation of Saigon, he was a dedicated pilot, son of an Air Force pilot, very reserved and quiet...not one to speak of his achievements but always ready to help others. He was an instructor after returning from cruise and a test pilot for aircraft with problems. He returned one to base with part of it's wing missing. He saved a wealthy man's life scuba driving and then when the man followed us everywhere trying to reward him, Gary said please just leave me alone. He had the most carrier landings of any JG in the Navy but the things he achieved he never speaks of. His humble nature has inspired and turned our son into an amazing man in his own right.

I am nominating PIO Trooper James O’Callaghan because he loves cars! And because he has made a huge difference in WNY! Trooper O has been with the NYSP for 21 years and has responded to major events including Bucky Phillips’ escape, the Tops shooting, the Buffalo blizzard and most recently the horrific bus accident on the I-90. He is the face of the NYSP on news outlets and is a regular guest for many local radio shows. He makes sure to keep the public informed about what is happening at these major events and posts updates. He bridges the gap between police and the community at the Erie county fair, Cars and Coffee, the Buffalo Auto show, the Wurlitzer car show, the Olcott car show and many other events. He is well loved and respected throughout WNY! He works hard for the community to keep people safe and well informed!

Eddie is a one off the few men in my life that truly wears many hats. I would like express my utmost respect and admiration for the man he is and the many roles he fufill with integrity and devotion. Eddie has excelled in every path he has chosen. He has honorably served our country as a member in the U.S Air Force. After his military service, he continued to contribute his community as a New York Transit Bus Operator. His commitment and dedication to strong work ethics has always been a defining character trait until he retired and awarded with Honor and Distinction. He also serves as a Minister offering spiritual guidance and comfort to in need. He has also devoted himself to solemn and respectful work of being a Mortician. Above all else, he is a lovingfather supportive partner and dedicated family man. he is kind, dependable generous with his time and caring. I am proud to have him as a part of my family.

Trooper James has worked tirelessly to protect this beautiful state , along with protecting his coworkers and family . He goes to numerous community events and helps anyone and everyone at the drop of a hat , doing so with a smile on his face. He is the PR face for all crisis events involving state police and does so with discretion on local news networks to keep the public informed. He deserves the highest honor.

James O'Callaghan is my dad. He always has a smile on his face whether work was a bad day or a good day, and he never fails to put a smile on the people around him. He risks his life to support my family and he deserves this more than anyone.

4 deployments on the front lines in Afghanistan - gave everything to the Army and his country. Sniper - RECON Team Leader - Platoon Sgt - Recruiter - SGT First Class - DAD - He has done it ALL! Has just recently retired and starting life all over again outside of the Army - trying to get settled A new car would be an absolute great start!

Steven is a fantastic member of our community. He is such a supportive and passionate peewee football coach to my son, a loving father and step-father, and someone who is constantly looking for ways to embetter the lives of Buffalo area youth. He is working with our league to proceed scholarships for city children to come play football in East Aurora and provide transportation as well. We are so lucky to have someone like him leading our team. Yet, Steven's family struggles with their own transportation issues. After an accident left him with medical complications, including major surgeries, he is still working to get back in his feet financially. Their vehicle is often broken down, preventing him from accomplishing everything he hopes to achieve for the community. This would truly be a life (an community-changing) opportunity for him and his family.

I am nominating someone I hold dear to my heart because of the amazing man he is for our family, the community, and the country he served for. His name is Steven Echols and I’m proud to call him my husband. He had been in the army for 3 years before being discharged honorably. But that is not all! He is an amazing father to 5 beautiful children with the oldest at 23 and the youngest at 3 months old. In addition he still finds time to volunteer as the head coach for East Aurora pee wee football team! He always tries to stay positive even with our recent hardships which is why I am nominating him today. He had been in a car accident, both my parents passed away and we lost our home and everything we have due to a fire. Thankfully he is recovering from 2 spinal surgeries, and we have somewhere stay after being homeless for two years. Although still in recovery mode the last step would be a reliable safe car to get to appointments school events and of course the football field.

I am nominating this selfless man because he truly needs a break in life. I would love nothing better to bring him back to happiness. In 2001, he joined the army and was one of the first to deploy overseas. He fought four tours and saved countless numbers of lives due to his actions. It wasn't until a roadside bomb blew up his vechile that his injuries left him unable to serve for his country. He came home and his now ex wife was cheating on him while deployed. Years later found out he also endured a tramatic brain injuring during the bombing. This left him feeling hopeless and depressed. His PTSD got so bad that the government deemed him 100% disabled. He has pictures of standing next to the burn pits that started the PACT ACT of 2022. His health seems to be declining and depression worsening. All this and he still puts a smile on his face each day for our two beautiful sons and I. He is there when you need him in an instant and would bend over backwards for anyone no matter what.

My husband served in the USMC both as an enlisted Marine and officer for 36 years with multiple mobilizations and deployments over our 20+ year relationship. He was selected as the Marine Corps Times-Marine of the Year in 2007, served with Wounded Warrior Regiment to guide the recovery of Marines and is currently working for the Dept of Veteran Affairs to serve our Veterans. He is not only my hero, but a hero to others daily. Just this year he did the following: 1. Provided immediate aid, called for help, and comforted to a fellow employee having a health related emergency until first responders could arrive. 2. Obtained a copy of a DD-214 for our neighbor and Korean War Veteran that did not know how to request one. 3. Placed a homeless Veteran into safe housing on the same day We just purchased our retirement home in Michigan, so that I may be closer to family since leaving high school. Our current vehicle is 13 years old and I would love him to have a new car for winter driving.

Mark is what we call the "Third Man Down" at the Sheriff's Office. As our clean up man, he's the first one to take out the trash. Mark was recently awarded the prestigious Sheriff's Award for his ability to clean things up. Due to budget issues, he's unable to receive a take home vehicle. His is also known as the "Mayor" in his native Kaisertown neighborhood, and is always there to lend a hand to his neighbors. Please consider Mark for this opportunity to continue to serve.

They just recently lost their car due to financial difficulties. It would help him alot

They have been struggling with their car and trying to make it to work for months his car is slowly dying and hes running into hard times trying to keep up with repairs, its been a heavy stress and I'd like to see him get a win in life for a bit

Jim is always professional and excellent at sharing information people need regarding what happens in our state. He has been excellent protector of our communities, fire arms instructor and encouragement to all he meets.

I am honored to nominate myself for this recognition because serving as a first responder has been my lifelong calling. I began at just 14 in the Explorer program with Gates Fire and Gates Volunteer Ambulance, becoming an EMT at 18 and continuing ever since. Over the years, I have earned Life Member status in both Gates-Chili Volunteer Fire Department and Gates Volunteer Ambulance, where I now serve full-time as Assistant Chief. I have been proudly affiliated with the agency since 1992, dedicating countless hours to helping others. Along the way, I have received numerous lifesaving awards and have been recognized for my role in significant incidents, large-scale disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic. My greatest reward has always been making a difference—improving lives in my community and beyond—and I remain deeply committed to that mission every day.

I help coach the Pee-wee football team that Steve is the head coach of. He is an incredibly selfless guy and my time coaching with him and knowing him it is obvious how often he’s thinking about others and putting them before himself. The most recent example being how his car is not working, but he’s still finding rides to practice so that he can coach and make it work for his kids and for all the other boys. He is an exemplary human being.

Steven should be nominated because he is supportive and hard working for his family and for coaching, he lives in south buffalo and travels to east aurora to couch peewee in his unreliable car that constantly breaks down leaving him and his family stranded and including my son sometimes that he come gets to take to practice with him. He cares about everyone on the team and looks out for them even when he has his own problems at his household with his family. This would be a blessing for him and his family and a load off of them so please consider him. Thank you

I have been coaching youth football (5-7 years old) since the start of the season. I have seen Steve start as an assistant coach and transition into the head coach. The passion he brings to the team and the positive impact he is having on these children is extremely noticable. Steve is driving from Buffalo to East Aurora every day to make sure he is available at practice. I have personally seen him pick other kids up from Buffalo that do not have transportation and get them to practice. I know that he routinely has car trouble and I do not know his financial situation, but I do not think he could get something more reliable. He would be a great recipient of a new vehicle that I know he would cherish and use to continue helping the youth in the area.

My mom served in the Army as an E5 as she has served our community as a social worker, trained youth from a book she written Releasing The Champion Inside and uncover Treasure Inside, she has given her life to serve youth, disabled, homeless, and assisted late husband Bishop Henderson with keeping the historical Underground Railroad Church The Michigan Ave Baptist Church for 40yrs. until he passed in 2021 and in 2022, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Presently in remission. I'm thankful as I press in to help others.

I think Tony is well deserving after all he care for. After serving his country he helps his disabled son who was in a horrific car accident and is helping raise his grandson. He also took care of his father who recently died of dementia

It's because my husband is the most self sacrificing man i have known. Its why he chose to join the Navy, and why he chose to stick it out for 20 years, to give the best of his years and strengths to his country. Then, to come back home , to Niagara Falls to serve again, this time to his aging parents .Tony's service didn't end there, he gave up working a full time job, not only to help his parents but to help his son raise his son after an unfortunate situation with our grandsons mother. He gave even more of himself when our son became disabled in a car accident and Tony took it upon himself to stay home to care for his son, and grandson, al the while raising our then teenage daughter. And now, his aging brother. It didn't stop there, after the death of his mother, his father developed dementia, and Tony became his full time care taker. still caring for our son, and grandson full time. Due to income restrictions we struggle with one 13 year unreliable old car for all He deserves it

Jalissa has always been the type of person to put everyone before herself. The position she holds speaks to that.

My mom is the biggest pain in my butt and I love her to death she keeps me out of trouble and I always checking on me. She is one of the kindest people I know.

My dad served in the United States Air Force. He Also is a Court Officer for New York States. He has been the best teacher for me on life skills. He is well rounded showing me how to fish, hunt and work on houses even down to saving money. He helps people anyway he can and that’s his best feature!

Honorable, hardworking & dedicated to family, friends and work. He is not only a defender of honor in the NYS Courts he was also served his Country in the USAF military. As they say a “Jack of all trades” he definitely holds that title and more in our hearts.

Jalissa is a naturally warm, caring and compassionate person; longstanding necessities these two positions require. Being steadfast, tenacious and purposefully driven are sentiments she owns to a level of markswomanship!

Jalisa has dedicated her career to helping others. Not only is she a paid Paramedic for AMR, she also volunteers for Rapis Volunteer Fire Company. She is interested in advancing her career into nursing and looks forward to going back to school.

Jalissa has on numerous occasions gone over and beyond to make sure patients in her care are calm, responsive,understanding their conditions, have follow through and ge follows up on their care to ensure all is good. Jalissa wear her heart on her sleeve and approaches every encounter like it's a family member

Halie is a Airforce veteran and has been met with a lot of adversary while trying to become accustomed to civilian life .She continues her service by being a worker for twin city Ambulance company and is serving our community daily .She is always giving I believe it’s time for her to have reliable transportation to continue to serve the Western New Yorks community .

Brandon is an amazing native American veteran who has done amazing things for his community. He unfortunately fell on hard times when he had unfortunate family circumstances. But he continues to work hard and shows perseverance. He currently drives a Silverado that is on its last leg "230,000+" miles and unfortunately has a large amount of wny rust.

Vietnam Vet E5 Operations Sgt with the 212th MP Co Sentry Dog. Managed the withdrawal of Units from Ling Thanh, Soc Trang and Tay Ninh, The staffing with the Australians at Vung Tau resulting in the saving of over $10,000 in inventory weekly from the AussiePX. Directing operations resulting in a presidential unit citation

In a world which often takes volunteers for granted, I want to share how Mary MacQueen has spent her entire adult life in the service to our country, fellow veterans and the public. Serving three years of active duty as a U.S Army medic with the Army's 24th Transportation Company, Mary received an Army Commendation medal for her life saving actions during a civilian car accident with sever injuries. Hospital personnel credited Mary with saving the woman's life. Her experience with the Army led her to a 30 year career as a volunteer paramedic, police officer and K9 trainer for both police work and therapy dogs.she trained her partner Robin, a retriever, in the skills of Cadaver, narcotics, Air-Scent and Trailing, seeing a need for this Veterans with PTSD as well as victims of disasters such as a mass shooting incident and fires in California have benefited from her work with HOPE Animal Assisted Crisis Response dogs. Please consider her as a recipient for your award. Thank you

My husband recently lost he job from Sumitomo Rubber USA tires in February witch left him to have to give up his vehicle, he working in his last semester in and college and he’s in need of a new vehicle as he searching to find employment

i am nominating Zack Hauff because despite being disabled from serving in the Army, he still works a regular and very physically demanding job as an electrician. He shows up everyday and is one of the hardest workers in our company. i feel he deserves a break, and i think a new car would really help him and his family. i think he is owed a lot more for going through what he has been through, but this would be a nice start.

I’m beyond proud to nominate my true hero who has been serving her community with dedication, compassion, and strength for over 10 years. From the very beginning of her career, she’s poured her heart into helping others. Whether it’s rushing to emergencies, providing comfort in the most difficult moments, or simply showing up every single day with courage and integrity. She does it all because she loves serving her community in any way. Her passion for this work isn’t just about the job — it’s who she is. Selfless. Brave. Grounded. Always putting others first. And even after a decade in this field, her fire hasn’t dimmed, if anything, it’s only grown stronger. She doesn’t wear a cape, but she’s absolutely a superhero in my eyes — and in the eyes of so many she’s helped. 💙 If anyone deserves recognition, it’s her.

Samantha went out into one of the biggest areas of nyc to be in the middle of the chaos in the beginning of Covid and through out. She is respected and loved in her community for all she does to save lives and’s care for people on a daily basis. No matter what she has going on in life or how tired she may be she is all about her job. Saving lives is who she is.

My grandfather has always put everyone before himself and has worked hard his whole life. He never asks for help with anything. Through so many cancers and illnesses he’s taken care of my grandmother without a single complaint no matter horse far the doctors were or how tired he was. He’s sat bedside day and night every time she was admitted to a hospital. He’s helped his kids and grandkids raise their children and put all of us on the right path. Without that man my life would be so different and he is so selfless all the time. He drives carts buds in his retirement and helps so many ppl above and beyond his job with appointments and necessities. I’d love to see him win something like this.

Mary served 30 years as a volunteer EMT/Paramedic and ambulance Captain for the Seneca Nation Fire Department in Salamanca, NY. She was named National EMT of the Year by the Indian Public Health Service. Mary worked as a flight medic for Starflight, Mercyflight, and as crew chief of the Salamanca Flycar. She has trained dogs nationwide in Search and Rescue, Police K-9, and service dogs for veterans, founding “Kinzua Search Dogs.” Mary is a National Ski Patrol member, founded the Allegany State Park Nordic Ski Patrol, and is patrol director. She was recognized as National Nordic Ski Patroller of the Year and is the 11th Nordic Master in the country. Mary is a Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Deputy and worked 3 years as a K-9 officer for the Salamanca Police Department, earning Police Officer of the Year. She volunteers with HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response Dogs, responding with her dog Paxil to tragedies nationwide.

Robert is a combat veteran. He lost all the toes on his left foot due to diabetes. He drove tractor trailer for 22 years. He is an excellent and safe driver. He needs a scooter accessible van so he can take his van anywhere he wants to go. Presently, he is limited to places he can drive his scooter to. Getting a vehicle would make his quality of life much higher.

My brother Everette just got out of the Marines a few days ago. He was in for over 4 years. He was a motor T mechanic. If anyone i know deserves anything its him. Not just becuase he was a Marine but becuase he a good man with a good heart. I know he thinks his time spent In the service was a waste but we always cheer him up and tell him how much me did and sacrificed. I want to nominate him to show him that there are more people out there who are grateful for his service. I want him to get a sense of hope to help him transition back to the civilian life. Please consider my nomination, thank you.

Cathy is a deputy at the Erie County Holding Center. In January 2023 she was severely injured in a freak accident at work causing paralysis. She underwent multiple spine operations at ECMC which thankfully reversed the paralysis, followed by years of excruciating physical therapy. While she was in the hospital her beloved dog got sick & had to be put down – she had to say goodbye to him via FaceTime, while still paralyzed. It was awful. Due to the severity of her injuries she has been out of work on LDI & just found out her surgeon has deemed her unable to return to any type of job. She must now retire early, forcing her to take a lower pension than planned due to fewer years of service. She is in pain every day & has permanent residual effects on the left side of her body. Though she is thankful she is alive, walking, & cleared to drive again, the daily pain & not being able to work get to her. She is an amazing person with a kind heart & could use a spark of joy.

Larry Budd has been true to his oath since he was 17 and joined the Army. He was in service for over 9 years including a tour in VietNam. In his civilian life he has been involved in his community, from mentoring our son's friends to being a staple in our neighborhood. He has run our block club during a time when our neighborhood was struggling with drug dealers and worked with politicians to get cameras installed. He has been a staunch advocate for voting rights, and works the elections every year. While he is on the agent orange registry, he was recently diagnosed with a cancer which the VA lists as presumptive for agent orange causation.

Ben, is a New York State Court Officer He is a single dad who is committed to making a difference whether in the courtroom or in the community. He runs different marathons and enjoys hanging out with his son trying new things.