Every once in a while we hear a story that makes us extremely proud to be a part of the auto-enthusiast community. This, without a doubt, is one of those stories. Amongst the $38 million Ferrari’s and the other multi-millon dollar historic rides at the 2014 Pebble Beach auctions was a beautiful 1957 Buick Caballero Estate Wagon. However, this was no regular Buick wagon.
George W. Bush Institute's Military Service Initiative
The George W. Bush Institute’s Military Service Initiative honors the service and sacrifice of post-9/11 veterans and military families by improving their well-being and unleashing their potential. Through research, resources, programs and Presidential recognition…the Military Service Initiative unites and empowers communities, non-profits (military service organizations), business, academia, philanthropy and individual citizens to effectively support post-9/11 service members, veterans and their families in the areas of jobs, wellness, family, education, housing and women’s veteran issue.The iconic Jay Leno and his Big Dog Garage fully restored this iconic Buick to benefit the George W. Bush Institute’s Military Service Initiative. If you are unfamiliar with the initiative, it exists to help and support post-9/11 service members.
This Buick signed by George W Bush, was put up for auction by Leno with no reserve. The bids quickly rose in to the six digit mark and sold for $300,000. It was at this point the new owner walked on stage and donated the car back to David Gooding.
Everyone in the crowd understood what was happening and the first of two standing ovations took place. This meant the Buick was able to sell for a second time and allowing another donation to a great cause.
The car was then sold for a second time for $280,000 thus starting the second standing ovation. Richard Truesdale of Road and Track called it, “magical”. This brought the sale of the Buick to a staggering grand total of $580,000. We must tip our hats to the two buyers who helped to raise over half a million for such a great American cause.
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