Ford Motor Company hosted the “Proud to Serve: Bronco Off Roadeo” event, celebrating veterans and the military community with a day of adventure and camaraderie. Over 150 guests from U.S. Service Organizations, including Blue Star Families, Guitars 4 Vets, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), Travis Manion Foundation, Team Rubicon, and members of Ford’s Veteran Employee Resource Group, were invited to participate in the event. The attendees experienced the thrill of driving Ford Bronco SUVs at the adventure driving school in the Texas heat, creating unforgettable memories and sharing inspiring stories.
The history of Ford Motor Company’s dedication to the armed forces and veterans is a deeply rooted and inspiring one, often unknown to many. During World War I, Ford leveraged its industrial capabilities to produce materials for the military, converting Model Ts into ambulances for service in France and constructing 50 Eagle Boats for submarine chasing. Post-WWI, Henry Ford, recognizing the need for meaningful work as a healer for returning soldiers, offered them jobs and ensured they received medical care at The Henry Ford Hospital at no cost.
In 1922, Ford donated 50 Model Ts to the National Convention for Disabled Veterans, marking the beginning of a long-standing partnership with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). When World War II erupted, Ford once again mobilized its resources, producing tanks, Jeeps, ambulances, and B-24 Liberator Bombers at the Willow Run plant. This plant, brought to life by Edsel Ford, became a symbol of the Arsenal of Democracy, employing many women who became the iconic “Rosie the Riveters.”
As WWII concluded, Ford made a public commitment to secure jobs for returning veterans, ensuring employment for every service member who had left to join the armed forces. This commitment extended to creating adapted workplaces for disabled veterans, providing them with meaningful employment and support.
Over the decades, Ford continued to support veterans by actively recruiting from military bases, establishing scholarship programs for veterans’ children, and partnering with veterans’ organizations to raise awareness about issues like PTSD and veteran homelessness. Ford’s “earn while you learn” program for auto mechanics further demonstrated its commitment, providing veterans with intensive training and planned employment in association with the Veteran’s Administration.
Today, Ford’s dedication to veterans remains unwavering. The company has partnered with VetJobs.org and MilitarySpouseJobs.org to streamline the application process for veterans and their family members. Recently, Ford signed the PAYS Act, guaranteeing an interview for any active-duty military member applying for a position at Ford, and received a gold level certification as a veteran-friendly employer.
Ford continues to be actively involved in hiring veterans transitioning from active duty, recognizing the valuable skills and experience they bring. Employee resource groups, like the Veterans Network Group, provide a supportive community within the company, fostering camaraderie and understanding.
The “Proud to Serve: Bronco Off Roadeo” event not only celebrated the military community but also underscored Ford’s long-standing commitment to supporting veterans and their families, a tradition that continues to this day.
