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Kubota Honors Farmer Veterans at NASCAR San Diego Weekend

In a compelling show of support, Kubota Tractor Corporation, in collaboration with the Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC), has honored five extraordinary farmer veterans during the NASCAR San Diego Weekend at Naval Base Coronado. This event marked a significant milestone for the 2026 "Geared to Give" program, where the honored veterans were awarded essential farming equipment to aid their agricultural efforts.

Recognizing Commitment

The program's essence lies in acknowledging not only the military service of these veterans but also the sizable contributions they continue to make within their communities through agriculture. This year's honored recipients were introduced during a special pre-race ceremony, where they were presented with keys to their brand new Kubota equipment in front of a passionate audience of NASCAR fans.

Alex Woods, President of Kubota Tractor Corporation and an Army National Guard veteran himself, shared the importance of this initiative: "'Geared to Give' is about honoring veterans not only for their military service, but also for the meaningful impact they continue to make in their communities through agriculture." He emphasized the pride in supporting these hardworking individuals as they strive to cultivate their next chapter.

The Honorees

The five awardees of the 2026 program are:

• - Keelan Brown, U.S. Navy veteran from Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, who operates Farmer Brown's Produce, a family-run vegetable farm.
• - Justin Butts, U.S. Navy veteran from Berne, New York, owner of Black Wind Farm, focused on ecological restoration and local food systems.
• - Hudson Grigg, U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Hesperus, Colorado, who runs Griggstead, specializing in pasture-raised livestock and heritage breeds.
• - Jeff Morrison, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Chaseburg, Wisconsin, operating Bluff Country Ranch LLC, a diversified livestock farm.
• - Joseph Santry, U.S. Army veteran from Columbia, California, owner of Sweet Water Farm, focusing on regenerative farming practices.

Each recipient received state-of-the-art Kubota equipment tailored to aid their unique farming operations, facilitating their continued success in agriculture.

Celebrating Together

During the NASCAR San Diego Weekend, the veteran honorees not only received their new equipment but also engaged in various NASCAR events, including races and a meet-and-greet with Trackhouse Racing's Ross Chastain. They explored the behind-the-scenes workings of a NASCAR garage, enriching their experience as honored guests.

Jeanette Lombardo, CEO of the Farmer Veteran Coalition, highlighted how programs like "Geared to Give" empower veterans and help turn their agricultural dreams into reality. With Kubota’s commitment to support veterans and rural communities, these efforts significantly influence the lives of many.

A Growing Partnership

The 2026 program received over 700 applications, showcasing the immense need and desire among veterans to thrive in agriculture. Kubota’s recent partnership with NASCAR as an Official Partner reinforces their commitment to recognizing and supporting military veterans.

Since the introduction of the "Geared to Give" program in 2015, Kubota has invested more than $1.2 million in the Farmer Veteran Coalition, providing equipment and support that have made a tangible difference in the agricultural landscape for veterans.

Moving Forward

Kubota’s ongoing support includes not only awarding equipment but offering discounts on purchases for veteran members of the Farmer Veteran Coalition at authorized Kubota dealerships. This enduring partnership drives forward the mission to aid veterans transitioning into careers in agriculture.

For more information about the "Geared to Give" program and its impact, visit Kubota Cares and learn more about the Farmer Veteran Coalition at their website. This initiative stands as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and significant contributions of America's farmer veterans, ensuring their continued success in agriculture and their communities.