Last week, I was fortunate to present the heritage of Ford and the Military at the 'Proud to Serve: Bronco Off Roadeo.'
Ford used this event to celebrate veterans and the military community. We invited more than 150 guest from
The heritage of
Ford also built 50 Eagle Boats which were used as submarine chasers. In the wake of WWI, with a generation scarred and a nation yearning for normalcy,
After being approached by the National Commander of the
In 1922, Henry Ford donated 50 Model Ts to the
When WWII began, Ford once again sprang into action, providing war material producing tanks, Jeeps and ambulances for the war effort. The crown jewel of the Arsenal of Democracy was the Willow Run plant, conceived and brought to life by
As WWII was ending, Ford announced a public commitment to secure jobs for returning veterans. 'Every man who left our employ to go to the armed forces has his old job, or another job, if his old job has ceased to exist, waiting for him when he is honorable discharged from the service.'
Ford's commitment to employing veterans went beyond simply filling vacancies. We recognized that many returned with both visible and invisible wounds. Disabled veterans, often marginalized by society, found open doors and adapted workplaces at Ford.
The decades that followed saw Ford continue to champion veterans' causes. We actively recruited from military bases, recognizing the discipline, work ethic, and technical skills ingrained in those who served. Scholarship programs were established, ensuring that the children of veterans had access to education and a brighter future.
But Ford's support extended beyond employment and financial aid. We partnered with veterans' organizations, offering resources and raising awareness for issues like PTSD and veteran homelessness. Ford understood that the transition back to civilian life could be fraught with challenges and was committed to easing that burden.
Ford instituted an 'earn while you learn' program for auto mechanics. Veterans received six weeks of intensive training at the Rouge Plant and were then brought into one of Ford's nationwide dealerships for a two-year planned employment and training program in association with the government's Veteran's Administration.
That legacy continues today.
Ford is committed to hiring Veterans and their family members. Recently we partnered with VetJobs.org and MilitarySpouseJobs.org to help identify, track and streamline the application process. We also recently signed the PAYS Act, which guarantees any member of the active-duty military an interview for an open position at Ford. We received a gold level certification as a veteran friendly employer.
Today, Ford's dedication to veterans remains as strong as ever. We are actively involved in initiatives to hire veterans transitioning from active duty, recognizing the valuable skills and experience they bring. Our employee resource groups, like the
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