GM Defense ISV-U Auction Raises $1 Million for Medal of Honor Foundation

Rick Hendrick bought the first GM Defense ISV-U at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach for $1 million, with proceeds benefiting the Medal of Honor Foundation

A historic moment unfolded at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach as Rick Hendrick became the owner of the first publicly offered GM Defense Infantry Squad Vehicle-Utility (ISV-U). The special sale generated $1 million, with 100% of the hammer price going to support the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation.

GM Defense designed the one-of-a-kind 2026 ISV-U to meet the demanding needs of the U.S. Army and allied forces. Built as an ultra-light tactical vehicle, the model showcased at auction featured a custom livery honoring the Medal of Honor legacy and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The GM Defense ISV-U auction quickly became one of the standout moments of the event.

The vehicle crossed the block before a national audience and was introduced alongside four of the nation’s 64 living Medal of Honor recipients: David Bellavia, Kyle Carpenter, Terry Richardson, and Matt Williams. Their presence added emotional significance to an already memorable occasion, connecting American engineering, military service, and charitable giving.

GM Defense and Rick Hendrick Highlight Meaningful Partnership

Steve duMont, president of GM Defense, praised the partnership behind the event and the impact of the proceeds. He said the company was proud to stand beside the Medal of Honor Foundation and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. He added that seeing the vehicle generate meaningful support for those who served the nation made the day especially rewarding.

Rick Hendrick, chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group and owner of Hendrick Motorsports, described the ISV-U as an impressive feat of engineering. Hendrick also noted the deeper meaning behind the sale, saying the opportunity to honor service members and support the Foundation made the purchase special. Hendrick Technical Solutions, one of his companies, also manufactures components used in the ISV-U program.

During the bidding, Medal of Honor recipient Kyle Carpenter addressed the crowd and opened the auction. He spoke about courage, sacrifice, and service, reminding attendees that the Medal of Honor represents America at its best. His remarks gave even greater weight to the GM Defense ISV-U auction.

Proceeds Will Preserve Legacy and Support Families

According to organizers, proceeds from the sale will help fund programs supporting Medal of Honor recipients and their families, preserving the medal’s history, and sharing its values with future generations.

Chad Graham, executive director of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, emphasized that the organization is not congressionally funded and relies on committed partners and generous donors. He said events like the GM Defense ISV-U auction help ensure the medal’s meaning continues to inspire generations to come.

The auction was made possible through the collaboration of GM Defense, Barrett-Jackson and the Medal of Honor Foundation, with support from Medal of Honor recipients who were present to represent the enduring legacy of the medal.