Forrest Anderson Plumbing and Air Conditioning (Forrest Anderson), a family-owned business in the Phoenix area since 1961, installed a new free HVAC unit at the home of Peoria Veteran Olga Tucker. The U.S. Army Veteran, was winner of Forrest Anderson’s 6th Annual Military Hero A/C Giveaway, a local event designed to honor the sacrifices of Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

“I am so grateful for Forrest Anderson providing me peace of mind. I am relieved to know that next summer I won’t have to worry about our system failing,” said Tucker. “This experience has been like winning the lottery.”

Tucker’s previous A/C unit was original to the house that was built in 1994. Since moving to the home in 2017, the aging unit has needed multiple service calls and struggled to cool the home. Tucker and her children relied on window units to stay comfortable.

On November 17, Forrest Anderson replaced Tucker’s failing, 27-year-old A/C unit with a brand new unit, fully installed with the help of industry partners, MORSCO HVAC/Bush Supply and Smiley Crane Service.

“A working air conditioning unit is a necessity here in Arizona. We are happy that Olga and her children can now be comfortable in their home,” said Audrey Monell, President of Forrest Anderson. “It’s such a small thank you compared to Olga’s sacrifices and service to our country and community.”

After serving in the Army from 2004 to 2012 as a Sergeant and 88M-Motor Transport Operator, Tucker became actively involved in giving back to the Veteran community. She serves as the Veteran’s Resource Coordinator and Advisor for Operation Enduring Gratitude and volunteers to several nonprofits including Mission 22, 22 Until None, and the PTSD Foundation of America. Tucker is also actively involved in the Peoria community as a member of the Peoria Military Affairs Committee and as a community leader within Peoria’s Pine District.

“The support and positive response from the community and strangers has been overwhelming. This is such a gift,” said Tucker.

As a strong supporter of the community, Forrest Anderson has worked with local partners since 2016 to sponsor the Military Hero A/C Giveaway every year around Veterans Day. To recognize the two runners-up, Monell is also giving Mark Denman of Litchfield Park and Andrez Romero of Mesa a free A/C Tune Up valued at $84.95.