Local Veteran a Finalist in General Motors' "Our Town, Our Heroes" Program

Aurora resident Raul Buendia is one of three finalists selected for General Motors’ Our Town, Our Heroes program due to his service in the United States Military and his service to his college community upon his return.

The public is encouraged to vote for their favorite hero at DrivingtheMidwest.com. Voting continues through November 16, and the hero will be announced on Nov. 19.

Buendia’s friend, Robert Lopez, nominated him for the Our Town, Our Heroes program, citing his kindness, to others and determination to his cause.

Lopez met Buendia in a fraternity at Aurora University after Buendia returned from his deployment in Afghanistan. Buendia and Lopez have launched several initiatives at Aurora University, such as a Trick or Treat for UNICEF that raised more than $500 in two weeks.

"Raul has been the driving force behind all of our successes with words of kindness, motivation, understanding, determination and brotherly love," said Lopez. "Words cannot put into perspective the vibrant and humble personality Raul has; you have to be around him to experience it. I truly believe there is no other hero like Raul."

Lopez highlights Buendia’s commitment to his country and his campus, writing, “With his dedication to protect those he loves, as well as his drive and passion to help others, Raul has become one of my greatest heroes.”

General Motors launched the Our Town, Our Heroes program in 2011 to recognize and reward unsung heroes who are inspiring and empowering others in their local communities. Every month, the program will narrow down the nominations and open voting of the featured finalists to the public to select the winner. The hero and his or her nominator will receive a one-week loan of an all-new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle and a full tank of gas. New to the program this year, the winning hero will also receive $500 in gift cards, and the second place hero and his or her nominator will each receive a one-week vehicle loan.

“After serving in our military, Raul returned to his community to give back and make a difference,” said Brian Goebel, General Motors North Central Region Communications Manager. “The Aurora community should be proud to have a hero like Raul in their midst.”

Special thanks to MSL Chicago for the release.