Ford’s Demonstration of Loyalty to U.S. Military Features the Bronco SUV

Photo Source: Ford

What is Ford’s “Proud to Honor” Enterprise?

In 2023, Blue Star Families introduced their “Do Your Part” initiative, encouraging non-profit organizations, companies, and individuals to support the military and veteran community. Ford enthusiastically joined this effort, organizing the first-ever Proud to Honor: Bronco Off-Roadeo event. For context, on June 27, 2024, in Horseshoe Bay, Texas, just outside of Austin, groups of veterans and their families cheered ecstatically as they completed a challenging off-road course in borrowed Ford vehicles. 

The excitement was tangible and camaraderie evident across all the military branches represented: Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy, and more. It was a celebration of active and fallen heroes and the families and friends who love and support them. Representatives from several veteran groups were in attendance, such as the Travis Manion Foundation and Blue Star Families. Ford was hosting them all at its Bronco Off-Roadeo Texas location to suitably usher in Independence Day.

Offering Hope to Veterans

Christopher Smith has military experience himself and attended the U.S. Military Academy of West Point. Now, he is an advocate for veteran-oriented events like the off-roading day through Ford, and he sees an opportunity to assist veterans in multiple ways.

“When I looked at Ford’s longtime relationship with veterans, and for me as a veteran myself, these events give me a chance to connect back to some of their personal stories. By using our brains outside in different ways and promoting fellowship, we’re learning a lot about effective ways to take care of our veterans.”

–Christopher Smith, Ford’s Chief Government Affairs Officer

Along similar lines, Leigh Edmonds, senior manager of strategic partnerships for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), inspired an assortment of veteran families to share the Off-Roadeo event with her. TAPS provides extensive resources and compassionate care for individuals mourning the death of a military or veteran loved one. 

The organization offers a 24/7 grief helpline, and Edmonds emphasized that anyone who calls the helpline always receives assistance from another human being. It is always another survivor, because they understand and have been trained to have those conversations. The event at the Off-Roadeo gave TAPS members a chance to build new memories and develop new relationships.

Ford’s Dedication to the Military Leads to Sales

Smith claimed that one aspect of his participation with the automaker is to underscore the significance of American ambition in manufacturing. Citing the role Ford played in World War I and World War II by assembling vehicles utilized by the United States military, Smith highlighted the brand’s long-term commitment to the veteran community.

Surprisingly, Ford also realized that some people who accompanied Bronco owners to the Off-Roadeo experience, like friends, spouses, and parents, decided to purchase a Ford automobile themselves. To that end, over half of those purchases were Bronco SUVs. Even though that was not the purpose of this veteran bonus on that day, there is no question that families left feeling very positive about Ford and its overwhelming support.

Go Off-Roading Safely and Responsibly with Blue Oval Vehicles from Sunrise Ford!

Ford has established a long-standing partnership with the military, forming an inextricable part of the manufacturer’s illustrious history. It is an example of how automobiles can forge community involvement and create relevance surrounding vehicular activities. 

If you are enthralled by the 2024 Ford Bronco, please come visit Sunrise Ford. After all, we can help sell your current vehicle or bring it back to life like new with an online service appointment at our service center. Allow our professional technicians to get started on all repairs or maintenance work.