Armstrong And Getty Show Honors Veteran With New Car

ELK GROVE (CBS13) - A local radio show competition that honored military veterans handed out the grand prize Saturday.

The Armstrong and Getty Show partnered up with Elk Grove Ford to give one American hero a free car, and recognized four other American heroes and their service.

Alex Jauregui, who served two tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, was chosen based on the veterans sacrifice, valor and courage.

The double amputee lost his leg by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan, but it's an injury that didn't slow the local man down.

"I pretty much accepted it right when it happened, because feeling sorry for myself wasn't going to get me my legs back. So, I might as well learn to walk again," said Jauregui.

Longtime friend Jackie Shafer wrote and submitted the contest letter about Jauregui, and says his optimistic outlook on life is what separates him.

"He was awarded the USO award," said Shafer.

"The idea was people submit a story about a family member or friend," said co-host Jack Armstrong. "Then we selected the stories."

"Given the financial stress on military families, it seemed like a tribute that was significant too," said co-host Joe Getty.

The radio show hosts say the gesture and recognition for all 24 contestants is one that comes well deserved.

"We're big on Armstrong and Getty Show on military families. We don't feel like the entire military part of America gets enough attention and the sacrifice that goes on," said Armstrong.

"The heroic things they did over there for fellow American soldier, Iraqis, citizens of Afghanistan, it's incredibly moving," said Getty.

"Thanks to everybody who put this together and everybody who supported me the whole time I've been recovering," said Jauregui.

Alex's grand prize is a two-year lease on a 2013 Ford Focus.

The four runners-up were awarded Hornblower Cruise tickets.