Veteran Awarded Custom Van at Kansas Speedway
Army veteran Michael Monthervil received a specially equipped vehicle to increase his mobility and independence.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Motorsports
Army veteran Michael Monthervil was awarded a customized Toyota Sienna BraunAbility van at Kansas Speedway. The presentation took place ahead of the Hollywood Casino 400 as part of a national initiative to support post-9/11 veterans.
Why it matters
This award provides the veteran with essential mobility and independence following a spinal cord injury sustained during his service. The program aims to restore autonomy to those who sacrificed their mobility in the line of duty.
The initiative is supported by a $1 million gift from Johnny and Terry Gray to fund the custom mobility project. Three additional veterans are expected to receive accessible vehicles throughout the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR season.
The players
Michael Monthervil
An Army veteran who served with the 10th Mountain Division and received a custom van to assist with his mobility.
Homes for Our Troops
A nonprofit organization dedicated to providing homes and mobility assistance to post-9/11 veterans.
BraunAbility
A manufacturer of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and mobility solutions for individuals with physical disabilities.
TRICON Garage
A professional NASCAR racing team that partnered with other organizations to facilitate the veteran mobility program.
The details
Michael Monthervil, who served with the 10th Mountain Division, sustained a spinal cord injury in Afghanistan on July 28, 2014. He completed his rehabilitation at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital.
Timeline
July 28, 2014: Michael Monthervil sustained a spinal cord injury during training in Afghanistan.
September 26, 2026: The custom accessible van was officially presented at Kansas Speedway.
Season Trajectory
This presentation underscores the active partnership between racing organizations and veterans outreach during the 2026 NASCAR season. It reflects a growing industry trend of using the sports platform to drive awareness and funding for veteran mobility initiatives.
The donation ceremony took place at Kansas Speedway as part of the lead-up to the Hollywood Casino 400 race. This partnership highlights the operational role NASCAR teams like TRICON Garage play in charitable outreach during the racing calendar.
The takeaway
This initiative highlights how corporate and sports partnerships can provide tangible support for wounded veterans. Ensuring accessibility and mobility remains a critical priority for veterans transitioning to life after service.
What happens next
Three additional accessible vehicles are scheduled to be awarded to veterans during the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR season.
Further reading
Find more coverage on regional racing events in our Motorsports section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kctv5.
