Celebrating Veterans Day: A Look Back on Ford’s Commitment to Veterans

For over a century, Ford Motor Company has demonstrated its support to returning war veterans in all aspects of their lives. In the aftermath of World War I, with Henry Ford’s support, Edsel Ford opened the doors of Henry Ford Hospital to veterans, providing them with free medical care due to limitations in government medical facilities. Ford also championed the employment of veterans with disabilities, an effort dating back to 1911, ultimately hiring more than 9,000 people with disabilities by 1919.

Supporting Disabled Veterans

Ford’s support for Disabled American Veterans (DAV®) spans nearly 100 years. The relationship began when Henry Ford provided Model Ts so DAV members could attend their annual convention. Today, Ford continues to provide funding and vehicle donations to help transport veterans to their medical appointments.  

Veterans Network Group

Since 2007, Ford’s Veteran Network Group (VetNG) has worked to raise awareness of the veteran community within the company and the issues that are important to them. “Being a part of this group has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Scott Rumfield, product line manager, FordPro. “Veterans are the backbone of our country, and I feel proud to be able to spotlight them not just on Veterans Day but throughout everything we do at Ford.”

Recruiting and Employing Veterans

Most recently, Ford partnered with the U.S. Army PaYS Program, which will help connect servicemen and women to Ford, ensuring a guaranteed job interview and potential employment post-military service. “Our veterans are deeply rooted in Ford’s history, and their sacrifices in honor of our country serve as inspiration for so many generations,” said Ernest Adams, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “It’s why we must continue to find ways to provide them with opportunities after service.”