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Huntsville Mechanic Offers Free Auto Repairs to Fellow Veterans
Former soldier Jon Smyly has fixed over 200 vehicles for veterans in Central Alabama at no cost.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Over the past three years, a former soldier in Huntsville, Alabama named Jon Smyly has fixed more than 200 vehicles completely free of charge for veterans in the Central Alabama area. Smyly, the founder of 'Soldier of Grace', grew passionate about fixing cars in high school and deepened that interest through his military service. He now offers free mechanic services - from basic maintenance to engine swaps, rebuilds, electrical work, A/C, brakes and more - to veterans who can't afford vehicle repairs.
Why it matters
Smyly's efforts highlight the financial challenges many veterans face in affording necessary vehicle repairs, and his free services provide crucial mobility and independence for those who have served. His work also reflects a broader need for more community support and kindness, especially in areas with high auto repair costs.
The details
After seeing veterans unable to afford vehicle repairs, Smyly started quietly offering free services with no advertising. He provides completely free mechanic work, and also helps veterans get discounted or free parts. Smyly says his experience serving two tours in Afghanistan showed him the world's need for more help and kindness, which inspired him to start 'Soldier of Grace' and provide this service to the veteran community in Huntsville.
- Over the past three years, Smyly has fixed more than 200 vehicles for veterans.
- Smyly founded 'Soldier of Grace' in Huntsville several years ago.
The players
Jon Smyly
A former soldier in Huntsville, Alabama who founded 'Soldier of Grace' and has provided free auto repairs to over 200 veterans in the past three years.
Soldier of Grace
A non-profit organization founded by Jon Smyly that offers free auto repair services to veterans in the Huntsville, Alabama area.
What they’re saying
“It's been something that I've just really enjoyed more than anything. It's a passion of mine.”
— Jon Smyly, Founder, Soldier of Grace (WTVM)
“I saw a need for it in the veteran community where they weren't able to pay for their vehicle to get repaired and they didn't have anybody that they knew or family to lean on in this area that could help them with that. Just kind of trying to spread a little bit of faith in humanity and kindness.”
— Jon Smyly, Founder, Soldier of Grace (WTVM)
What’s next
Smyly plans to continue offering free auto repair services to veterans in the Huntsville area, with the goal of helping as many former service members as possible maintain their vehicles and regain mobility.
The takeaway
Jon Smyly's selfless efforts to provide free auto repairs to veterans in need highlights the financial challenges many former service members face, as well as the power of community support and kindness to make a real difference in people's lives.
