Texas Dealer Gives Out 443 Gift Cards To Veterans & First Responders

As Veterans Day in the U.S. came and went, many businesses offered their support to those who chose to serve this nation … while a dealership out of Texas took things a step further.

Patterson Kia in Arlington, Texas offered veterans and first responders a free $50 gift card good for redemption at one of 18,000 restaurants nationwide. Any firefighter, police officer, paramedic or veteran who stops by the dealership from November 6 to November 16 can receive one of the gift cards with no purchase or obligation necessary.

According to a dealership press release, dealership owner, Harry Johnson said the store is putting on the event as their way of saying thanks. Johnson said in a statement, “We love supporting the military and first responders in our community here at Patterson Kia, we’re so grateful for all that they do and are excited to help provide lunch or dinner to these heroes and their families at a quality area restaurant.”

Patterson Kia also had Army Sergeant (ret.) first class Dana Bowman parachute into their store to speak about the outreach for veterans and first responders. Speaking to those gathered at the dealership on Veterans Day, Bowman said, “There are a lot of those men and women who are out there who don’t have this chance today because they’re gone, but we can’t forget our fallen comrades either.” In an emailed statement to DrivingSales News, the dealership confirmed 443 gift cards have been given out to veterans and first responders.

This is certainly a prime example of  “dealers doing good.” What’s your take on their gift card program idea? What other community outreach involving dealers and veterans did you either undertake at your store or hear about happening at another dealership?