FREEDOM, Wis. (WFRV) – In a heartwarming display of gratitude and community spirit, students from Freedom High School went above and beyond to give back to a local hero.
This week’s Hometown Hero, Thomas Andrejeski, a proud Marine Corps veteran, received a remarkable surprise that left him both speechless and grateful.
Andrejeski shared his journey from military service to becoming a vital part of the Veterans Village, where he serves as a driver for fellow veterans.
After dedicating years to his country, he found himself giving back to those who had also served. However, little did he know that a group of high school students had a special surprise in store for him.
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Jay Abitz, an automotive instructor at Freedom High School, explained the initiative funded by the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Community Impact Grant, which provided the budget to purchase a vehicle that students would then repair and donate to a veteran in need.
This year, the project, named “Freedom Wheels 3.0,” took on an even more poignant significance.
The vehicle, a 2012 Chevy Malibu, was previously owned by Abitz’s grandmother, a WWII Navy veteran who passed away.
Freedom High School senior Jacob Martino, who played a significant role in the project, expressed the pride he felt in contributing to this meaningful cause.
He recounted the lessons learned throughout the repair process, highlighting the mentorship of Mr. Abitz.
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“There were some things in here that I did not know how to do. I did not know how to take the belt off, replace the serpentine belt, but Mr. Abitz showed me what to do and showed me how to do it, and now I know how to do it; everything else was just nuts and bolts,” he explained. “He’s essentially a second dad, like he’ll teach you all the stuff you really need to know.”
Martino also emphasized the importance of giving back to someone who had selflessly served the country, stating, “It just feels good to give back to him.”
Jonny Bradle, an alumnus of the program and now the owner of his own auto shop, joined the effort, excited to lend his skills to a project that meant so much to him.
“I was really excited to do this project with Jay simply because I started here when I was in high school,” he shared. “This automotive program, I’ve always loved it, it made me want to go to school and do what I do today.”
When Thomas learned he was the recipient of a newly refurbished car, he was overwhelmed with disbelief.
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“There are so many scams out there nowadays, so I actually got to see things to believe it,” he remarked. The moment he laid eyes on the vehicle, painted in his favorite color, black, the shock quickly turned into joy.
“This car is going to benefit not just me but the veterans at Veterans Village in Grand Chute,” Andrejeski explained. “I take them to their appointments for the doctor, the VA clinic, and grocery shopping, so the ones without vehicles will appreciate this.”
The touching collaboration between the students, their instructors, and the local community showcases the profound impact of honoring those who have served.
Freedom High School’s initiative not only provides a vehicle but also reinforces the values of service, respect, and gratitude within the community.
