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STERLING, VA — Ahead of Veterans Day, a Navy SEAL veteran battling cancer got a helping hand from a Loudoun County car dealership.
On Thursday, retired Navy Special Warfare Operator First Class West Baldwin received the keys to a payment-free Subaru Forester at Subaru of Sterling (21736 Auto World Cir, Sterling, VA). The gift from Military Warriors Support Foundation, Chase Auto, Lithia & Driveway and Subaru of Sterling provides the veteran’s family with reliable transportation.
“My wife and I are about to begin my third year of battling metastatic cancer caused by exposure to toxins from burn pits in Iraq,” said Baldwin. “We are grateful beyond words to be blessed by the caring people of Chase and Subaru who have gone above and beyond to support us in our greatest time of need. Thank you to everyone at Military Warriors Support Foundation for making this happen for us.”
In addition to the vehicle, Baldwin will also receive one year of family and financial mentoring. The program has helped participants pay off more than $27 million in pre-existing debt and set the stage for long-term financial success.
The Military Warriors Support Foundation’s Transportation4Heroes program has awarded nearly 200 vehicles to military veterans across the U.S. since the program was created in 2007.
“It is our privilege to honor retired U.S. Navy Special Warfare Operator First Class (SEAL) West Baldwin,” said Ken Eakes, executive director of the Military Warriors Support Foundation. “His courage, dedication, and selfless service to our nation exemplify the very best of our military heroes. Through our Transportation4Heroes program, we aim to give back in a meaningful way providing reliable transportation that empowers veterans and their families to thrive as they transition to civilian life.”
“JPMorganChase is deeply proud to recognize the service and sacrifices of military personnel, veterans, and their families,” added Michael Cottone, general manager of Subaru Motors Finance at Chase. “Through our collaboration with the Military Warriors Support Foundation, we are committed to supporting our communities and expressing our appreciation to those who have served, by offering reliable transportation that paves the way for future opportunities and long-term success.”
Baldwin joined the Navy in 1999 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served from 1999 to 2012, including some most challenging years of the War on Terror. He started as a hospital corpsman and served in special operations, later joining SEAL Team 3 and the Naval Special Warfare Center and Basic Training Command as a UDT/SEAL instructor. His military awards include the Silver Star, Bronze Star with Combat Valor and Purple Heart.
Today, Baldwin and his wife, Jaime, are focused on enjoying time with loved ones. Baldwin is also navigating challenges from post-combat life and supports other service members facing the physical and emotional challenges of military service. He has also served as a medic and enjoys exploring the outdoors, fishing, shooting, photography, and visiting museums and galleries.
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