Lowcountry Veterans Attend 5th Annual Veteran Carriers TFAC Car Show
The gleam of polished chrome and the deep rumble of classic engines filled the air at the 5th Annual Veteran Carriers TFAC Car Show, but beyond the horsepower and high gloss, something even more powerful was taking place: Veterans reconnecting, rebuilding, and reclaiming their well-being.
Amidst the crowd, the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System sought to provide information on VA health care eligibility and enrollment for Veterans either unfamiliar with the benefits they earned through their service or assistance with connecting with other Veteran programs. More than just a resource booth, it became a gathering place where Veterans could learn not only about their benefits but also about each other, sharing experiences of service, sacrifice, and the ongoing work of personal restoration.
"If it weren’t for the VA, I wouldn’t be alive today."
For retired Army First Sergeant Mike Winkler, a 23-year Veteran, the event was more than just a car show, it was a lifeline.
“From combat, I have a lot of issues, and this event really helped turn things around for me, besides the VA,” Winkler shared as he polished his 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda. “Fifteen years ago, if it weren’t for the VA, I wouldn’t be alive today. If it weren’t for this event, I wouldn’t even be talking to anybody.”
Like so many Veterans, Winkler has spent years navigating the challenges of post-service life, battling the invisible wounds of combat. And just like the vehicles at the show—many of them once left to rust, forgotten, or broken—Veterans, too, can find their way back with the right care and commitment.
Restoring more than just cars
That’s the beauty of both restoration and recovery: it’s a process. Whether it’s an old truck or a tired soul, with patience, the right tools, and a community that refuses to give up, what was once worn down can be brought back to life.
Preserving the past, protecting the future
As the event wound down, the cars—meticulously restored and lovingly maintained—stood as a testament to time, resilience, and dedication. And in their reflection, one could see something even more enduring: the Veterans who, through the support of their community and the VA, continue to rebuild their own lives.
Because whether it’s a car or a combat Veteran, restoration isn’t just about fixing what’s broken, it’s about preserving what’s worth saving. And every Veteran is worth saving.
Enrollment and support
Throughout the event, the VA team answered questions, assisted with enrollment applications, and shared details on services ranging from primary care to mental health support. Veterans who had long been hesitant about seeking care found themselves reconsidering, inspired not just by the information but by the stories of their fellow service members.
For those who couldn’t attend, the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System encourages Veterans to visit www.va.gov/health-care or call the VA enrollment office at (843) 789-7000 to learn more.