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Grand Prairie Officer, Military Service Members Receive Vehicle Donations

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DFW AIRPORT (CBSDFW.COM) - Three Dallas-area law enforcement and military service members didn't know they would drive away from tonight's "Salute to Heroes Concert" in practically new cars.

Actor Gary Sinese called the Grand Prairie police officer, Army veteran, U.S. Navy sailor and U.S. Army specialist to join him on stage at the American Airlines Hangar #5 at DFW Airport. Sinese was there to perform with the Lt. Dan Band. One on-stage he handed each of the men keys to vehicles restored by technicians at several Caliber Collision North Texas locations.

"Caliber Collision has a long-standing tradition of hiring and supporting active military personnel and military veterans across the U.S. through a variety of philanthropic initiatives," said Steve Grimshaw, Caliber Collision Chief Executive officer. "We are proud to partner with the Airpower Foundation and American Airlines to honor and celebrate first responders and all branches of our military, and in particular, our three Dallas heroes. We hope these gifts of transportation will help restore them to the rhythm of their lives."

Caliber Collision, is a sponsor of the 14th Annual American Airlines Sky Ball in support of the Airpower Foundation, founded by the nation's oldest military support organization, The Fort Worth Airpower Council. Sky Ball is one of the largest and most impactful military support event in the nation.

Salute to Heroes

Posted by American Airlines Skyball on Friday, October 21, 2016

The three-day Sky Ball event, from Thursday, October 20th to Saturday, October 22nd, features live music from top performers such as Tim McGraw, Terry Fator, and more.

"We appreciate and welcome Caliber Collision whose Recycled Rides program and commitment to military families is in perfect alignment with our mission to provide contingency funding and support to members and families of all branches of our military, veterans and wounded, ill, or injured service members," said Jim Palmersheim, Senior Manager Veterans Initiative for American Airlines.

By the end of 2016, Caliber Collision will have donated more than 130 vehicles, valued at approximately $1.3 million, through its Recycled Rides‚Ñ¢ program, to families in need of reliable transportation.

The Salute to Heroes concert and Recycled Rides vehicle presentation was broadcast live by Microsoft to all U.S. Military bases across the country.

(©2016 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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