New Jersey veterans honored with refurbished cars 

PATERSON, N.J. (PIX11) -- The road they chose was not an easy one. But on this day, their service to our nation is honored.

To honor local veterans Albert Carballo and David Gibbions, Paterson-based Dynasty Auto Body, GEICO and NABC Recycled Rides gave both of them refurbished cars – the gift the freedom and independence.

"I can't even express the words, it's life-changing," said Gibbions.

"It was very emotional, you know? Because it's something you don't expect," said Caraballo. "To get an opportunity like this and a blessing like this, I'm lost for words."

Carabello, of Bloomfield, served in the Army National Guard for 16 years. Getting to work using only mass transit, his commute takes about 3 hours every day, and that's on top of his volunteer work and taking care of an ailing parent. Now, with his refurbished Nissan Sentra, he says his commute will be cut to 1 hour.

"I'm thinking of my family," said Gibbions, of Hackensack. "I'm thinking of the veterans we lost that aren't here anymore who gave their lives so that we could be free, so that I could be here to accept this gift."

Gibbiobs is an Air Force veteran who served as a Russian language specialist. Sadly, when he left the Air Force, he became homeless. 

Today, he works for the VA, and will get there in in a 2018 Hyundai Tuscon.

"It helps me get to where I need to [go], take care of everything I need ot take care of," said Gibbions.

The veterans received their cars on, of all days, Flag Day, the holiday that honors the adoption of the symbol of our nation, the symbol they fought to protect.