A Phoenix native is the winner of a Glendale business’ annual Military Hero Giveaway, and with it a free air conditioning unit.

Don Kuhl, an Air Force veteran and civil servant, secured the most public votes to win the Forrest Anderson Plumbing and Air Conditioning giveaway that honors the sacrifices of local veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

“This is incredible. An AC unit, especially these days, is of such value. It is so expensive compared to 10 years ago, and we would never be able to afford it,” Kuhl shared in a press release. “I am so grateful for my family, gaming friends, and fellow veterans for voting for me, and thank you Forrest Anderson team.”

Kuhl served as a staff sergeant in the Air Force from 1989 to 1998 and served in the Gulf War. After separating from the military, he is continuing his duty as a civil servant.

He is currently a civilian employee at Luke Air Force Base where he designs training devices to help aircrews learn how to use their aircraft. In his spare time, Kuhl loves to hang out with his family and friends. He loves to play video games as a way to connect with his friends online.

Kuhl’s partner of over 13 years, Shauna, nominated him for the giveaway, citing his unwavering dedication to the country. She shared that even though Kuhl was injured in the service, he will always be the first to answer the call for help from a friend or family member.

Kuhl is currently in the process of renovating his childhood home where he lives with Shauna.

“This giveaway serves as a humble token of gratitude for Don's dedicated service to our country and local community,” Audrey Monell, Forrest Anderson president, stated. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the finalists this year, and by sharing their stories, we aim to provide support and shed light on the significance of our military community.”

Forrest Anderson will replace Kuhl’s old unit with a brand-new unit, fully installed. As part of the surprise Cameron Davis, president of Razor Thin Media, presented him with an additional cash prize of $500.

To recognize the runner-up, Monell is giving Jeanette Garcia, of Avondale, a free A/C tune-up for one unit, valued at $84.95.

Since 2016, Forrest Anderson has worked with local partners to sponsor the Military Hero A/C Giveaway each year around Veterans Day because of the health risks of living without air conditioning in Arizona.

Previous winners include veterans from Peoria, Ahwatukee, Mesa and Wittman.

Forrest Anderson, a family-owned business in the Valley since 1961, is located at 17225 N. 63rd Ave., in Glendale.