Operation Healing Forces is honored to announce a new partnership with Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage, bringing together a shared commitment to craftsmanship, service, and community. Through this partnership, Operation Healing Forces has been named the beneficiary of the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Collection, which will be offered at no reserve during Mecum Kissimmee 2026—with proceeds directly supporting Special Operations Forces (SOF) families.
This collaboration connects the passion of the collector car world with a mission centered on care, connection, and long-term support for those who have served at the Tip of the Spear.
A Powerful Platform for Impact at Mecum Kissimmee 2026
The Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Collection will cross the block during Mecum Kissimmee 2026, taking place January 6–18 at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida. Hosted by Mecum Auctions, the event is recognized as The World’s Largest Collector Car Auction® and is expected to feature approximately 4,500 vehicles, drawing tens of thousands of collectors, bidders, and automotive enthusiasts from around the world.
For Operation Healing Forces, the event provides an extraordinary opportunity to amplify awareness and extend meaningful support to SOF service members, veterans, spouses, caregivers, and families.
Craftsmanship with Purpose
The Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Collection consists primarily of 1930s-era rodded and modified custom vehicles, each showcasing bold design, originality, and exceptional craftsmanship. Every build reflects a deep respect for automotive history while serving a greater purpose—generating direct support for the SOF community.
Among the collection is Backseat Betty, a standout custom build that incorporates authentic military surplus items into its construction. The vehicle honors heritage and craftsmanship while paying tribute to Vietnam veterans through thoughtful design and intentional detail.
“These All-American vehicles represent rugged individuality and craftsmanship built with intention,” said Matt Avery of Mecum Auctions. “They’re loud, distinctive, and impossible to miss. Bringing this collection to Mecum Kissimmee allows that passion to fuel meaningful support for the Special Operations Forces community beyond the automotive world.”
Supporting SOF Families Beyond the Auction Block
Proceeds from the Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage Collection will directly support Operation Healing Forces’ comprehensive programs, including:
- Therapeutic retreats for couples and caregivers
- Immediate needs assistance for urgent and critical situations
- SOF support services that promote reintegration, rehabilitation, and resilience for SOF families
These programs are designed to strengthen care, connection, and access to vital resources for those impacted by military service at the Tip of the Spear.
Creating Bonds That Cure
Kerry Irvin, Chief Executive Officer of Operation Healing Forces, shared the significance of the partnership:
“Operation Healing Forces is deeply grateful for this partnership with Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage and for the opportunity to connect with one of the largest and most engaged collector car communities in the world at Mecum Kissimmee. The proceeds from this allocation will directly support the Special Operations Forces community, creating bonds that cure by strengthening care, connection, and access to vital resources for all those impacted by service at the Tip of the Spear.”
Learn More
To learn more about Operation Healing Forces and how partnerships like this help expand care and connection for SOF families, visit operationhealingforces.org.
