FORT WORTH, Texas (Nov. 4, 2025) – In honor of Veteran’s Day (Nov. 11) and National Veterans and Military Families Month, United Way of Tarrant County (UWTC) joined forces with the Dallas Cowboys, On Time Experts, and Carry the Load to give back to one of Tarrant County’s own—a U.S. Army veteran and mother of five whose home had gone without air conditioning after a costly system failure. On October 28, Cowboys first-round draft pick Tyler Booker went undercover as an HVAC technician with On Time Experts to surprise Tammy Turner with two brand-new HVAC systems and full installation—completely free of charge.
Tammy was identified by UWTC's Mission United veteran support team, whose purpose is to connect veterans with resources and services. The organization's intake specialists are a one-stop shop for veterans to find the help they need. All Mission United specialists have a connection to the military themselves, as veterans or family members of veterans or active-duty military members. Two of the Mission United team members, Kamiel Morgan and Danielle Minter-Spencer, were with Turner when the surprise was revealed.
Turner, who served 14 years in the Army, thought she was meeting a technician for another estimate. When she realized the “technician” was actually a Dallas Cowboy there to deliver life-changing news, the emotion was overwhelming. “When I opened the door, I thought it was just another service call. I never expected something like this,” said Turner. “This means more than words can say.”
For nearly 100 years, UWTC has stood at the center of community collaboration—connecting people, resources, and innovation to solve the county’s toughest challenges. This veteran surprise represents exactly what that mission looks like today: bold partnerships and sustainable solutions that put people first. Through its strategic focus on leadership, development, brand visibility, research and innovation, and direct programming, UWTC is reimagining what community impact looks like in the modern era.
Leadership: Convening partners across sectors to lead with solutions, not duplication.
- Development: Creating sustainable revenue models that ensure long-term community investment.
- Research and Innovation: Using technology, data, and even tools like AI and VR to address root causes, not just symptoms.
Direct Programming: Continuing to expand initiatives like Mission United, which supports veterans and their families through coordinated resources.
The surprise was part of the On Time Experts Heroes Program, which provides free maintenance memberships to veterans, first responders, and active-duty military members across North Texas. While most receive maintenance support, full system replacements like Tammy’s are reserved for families in significant need.
“Our Heroes Program exists to serve those who serve us,” said Matt Rudesill, General Manager of On Time Experts. “When we met Tammy, we knew she needed more than a repair—she needed a lasting solution.”
“It was an awesome day,” said Tyler Booker, Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman. “Veterans sacrifice so much for us, so being able to show love back in any way means a lot.”
For more about UWTC’s Mission United program, click here.
About United Way of Tarrant County
United Way of Tarrant County, a nonprofit leader in North Texas, mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive. We identify critical needs, foster collaboration, and invest in solutions that drive change. Through our four impact areas—education and youth opportunity, community health, financial security, and community resiliency—our programs serve more than 400,000 individuals annually. After celebrating our 100th anniversary in 2022, we remain committed to empowering Tarrant County residents for generations to come.
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Media Contact:
Deanna Titzler
deanna.titzler@unitedwaytarrant.org
Tel: 817-258-8025
Kimber Westphall
Tel: 316-516-3277