Motor City Auto Center is a big supporter of our troops and the families employed with us who have loved ones in the military. We wanted to give some special recognition and thanks to the military families of Motor City to let them know we support and appreciate them. While there are many more military families than we included, three were able to give us an insight into how having a loved one deployed affects the entire family.
The Hansen’s
Kris Hansen, Commercial Fleet/Sales Consultant, is the proud father of Jonathan Hansen, US Army 2011-2020 Captain, and Ryan Hansen, US Army ROTC and current student at UCSB.
“I am very proud that my sons have been willing and able to serve in the armed services. My oldest son Jonathan was able to see much of the world and has made the most of his opportunity by continuing his education at Stockdale High, Fresno State, and finishing his master's at Johns Hopkins.
My youngest son Ryan just started his military service by attending the ROTC Basic course at FT. Knox in KY. He is currently working on finishing his B.S. in finance at UCSB in Santa Barbara.”
Kris loves the joy and connection of a FaceTime call with his kids when they’re away. He tells us, “It was pretty amazing to Facetime my son while he was in Iraq!”
So how can we support our troops from home? Kris reminds us to “never forget the men and women fighting for the freedom that we can enjoy. It’s sad when people take it for granted. Freedom is not and never will be free!”
Mercedes Thayer & Nick Kossler
Mercedes Thayer, Marketing Coordinator, recently said her good-byes to her wonderful son, Nick Kossler, as he is off to be an FN (Fireman) E3 stationed in Goose Creek, SC at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Command.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Nick and his wife Madison, who is also in the Navy in the same ‘nuke’ school. Nick was in the Navy Sea Cadets for a few years, I always had a feeling he would choose to go into the military. Growing up Nick was always in advanced classes; I never had to check his homework or worry that he wasn’t on track in school. So, I knew he was going to do big things.”
When discussing the impact Nick’s decision to join the military has had on the family, Mercedes said,” I think a lot of parents worry about their children being away from home, but I’m the opposite. I am so glad Nick is able to travel and build a future for himself.”
If you want to positively impact our troops when they come home, Mercedes reminded us to donate to The Wounded Heroes Fund right here in Kern County.
The Onsurez’s
Albert Onsurez, Body Shop Technician, is the proud father of one active-duty Corporal in the Marines and two other sons who are Marine Veterans.
“Words can’t express how proud I am to see 3 of my boys join a service that takes a lot of courage, selflessness, and sacrifice,” Albert proudly tells us.
When we asked how being in a military family impacts their daily lives, Albert explained, “We tend to appreciate the small things in life. Things that many people may overlook. Having everyone home for dinner is a blessing.”
We can support our troops as a community by supporting their loved ones at home. “If you have friends or family in the military regardless if they’re close relatives or extended family… reach out and let them know you’re here for them if they ever need anyone to talk to.”
Motor City Cares
We would love to extend our gratitude and admiration for every active and retired person in the military and the families who support them. Whether you are enlisted yourself or you love someone who is, the sacrifices and dedication you go through on a daily basis are not without recognition and appreciation.