Receiving an impactful prize in honor of his service, veteran Air Force technical sergeant Zachary Jacobs was awarded a 2025 Kia Sportage from the Military Warriors Support Foundation, Wells Fargo, the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation and Young Kia on Nov. 14.
“This is just one thing that allows me to come a little bit closer to being a normal kind of human that otherwise I don’t get,” said Jacobs. “I just truly thank everyone here from the bottom of my heart, from my family. This is massive. This is such a big deal for us.”
Jacobs and his wife, Sara, were informed about the giveaway the morning of the event. Prior to receiving the keys, representatives from each of the organizations involved gave speeches expressing gratitude for his service.
As part of their efforts to provide continual support to veterans, Jacobs was enrolled in classes offered by the Military Warriors Support Foundation. He plans to use the vehicle to support his own engineering and plasma cutting business — allowing him to work on a schedule that aligns with his health needs.
“It’s hard to describe how much of a privilege it was to host this event,” said Dallin Breshears, general manager of Young Kia. “In a world that feels incredibly divided at times, it’s refreshing to take a step back, and honor the people who’ve helped provide us with so much that we take for granted. Our team is grateful for any opportunity we have to give back to the military community.”
An individual who completed three tours in Afghanistan, Jacobs served as a joint terminal attack controller from 2006 to 2022. While on his third tour, an Afghan police officer he was working with stepped on a pressure plate improvised explosive device. Despite sustaining severe injuries, Jacobs was able to coordinate evacuations for his fellow soldiers.
Medically retired, Jacobs earned a Bronze Star with Valor Device and a Purple Heart for his service. His wife also served as a combat medic for the Italian Army, meeting Jacobs during his second tour.
This giveaway follows up on an event that the Military Warriors Support Foundation, Wells Fargo, the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation and Young Kia coordinated in 2023. Hosting a softball tournament, the organizations provided retired U.S. Army Sgt. William Davis III with a Sportage during a softball tournament.
“What makes Young Kia a great business to work with is the intention behind their efforts,” said Kellee Belnap, executive director of the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation. “They have a passion for education and the military, and strive to make each of their endeavors significant. It’s initiatives like this that make them a dependable resource both in and outside of the dealership walls.”
