Jeep, Marvel spotlight 9 military veterans in Wrangler America250 commercial

Capt. Kschristopher Anda in a Jeep Wrangler for the “The Original Superheroes” commercial. (Stellantis)

When people hear the name “Captain America,” they often think of actor Chris Evans. But Jeep and Marvel’s latest commercial aims to remind audiences that some of the nation’s true heroes aren’t just on-screen — they’re the ones defending the country.

For the 2026 Jeep Wrangler America250 campaign, Jeep and Marvel collaborated on a commercial and featured nine military veterans to reflect the values of what it means to be “Captain America.”

“The Original Superheroes” commercial, posted this month, featured seven retired service members — Air Force captain Kschristopher Anda; Marine Corps captains Scott Kennedy and Hiram Murray; Army captains Joz McCaw, Gary Neuger and Roberto Portales; and Navy commander Alan Pietruszewski — and two who are still active — Army National Guard Capt. Margaret McCoy and Air Force Lt. Col. Bodhi Rader. 

Several actors in the cast saw the call through Veterans in Media & Entertainment, a nonprofit organization focused on helping veterans build careers in the entertainment industry, including film, television, advertisement, gaming and other creative spaces.

“They weren’t specifically looking for veterans turned professional actor, but they ended up hiring all nine professional actors who were veterans. It was a very special spot to work on for me,” Pietruszewski told Stars and Stripes on Monday.

Capt. Gary Neuger stands next to a Jeep Wrangler A250 for the “The Original Superheroes” commercial. (Stellantis)

Capt. Joz McCaw leans against a Jeep Gladiator Rubicon for the “The Original Superheroes” commercial. (Stellantis)

Pietruszewski, who is a founding member of the organization, said it was important to include military veterans because they bring lived experiences that cannot be replicated.

“Being on set with them for three days, having some vet-to-vet conversation, we relate to each other in a way that most people just can’t understand,” Pietruszewski said.

He noted that veterans contribute to authenticity on set with how they carry themselves, communicate and understand what is needed to fulfill the role.

The commercial’s theme symbolizes the partnership between Jeep and “Captain America” — as both can trace their origins to 1940. “Captain America” made its debut as a comic book hero representing patriotism, valor and resilience during World War II.

“Jeep and Marvel went way beyond what I’ve ever asked of the industry before,” Pietruszewski said.

Marvel and Jeep reveal “The Original Superheroes” 2026 Summer of Jeep marketing and advertising campaign for the new 2026 Jeep Wrangler America250. (Stellantis)

Marvel and Jeep reveal “The Original Superheroes” 2026 Summer of Jeep marketing and advertising campaign for the new 2026 Jeep Wrangler America250. (Stellantis)

Jeep’s roots are deeply tied to military service. In 1940, the U.S. Army requested proposals for a new light reconnaissance vehicle designed for the battlefield. According to Jeep’s website, only Bantam, Willys-Overland and Ford responded, ultimately creating the blueprint for what would become the Jeep MA, and after revisions the Jeep MB.

By November 1940, Willys-Overland delivered its “Quad” prototype to the Army in just 75 days, marking the beginning of a vehicle that would go on to represent American military capability and motor innovation. The vehicle would later be sent to Russia and England under the Lend-Lease program, earn a Purple Heart and storm the beach on D-Day.

“For generations, including the service men and women who first relied on Jeep vehicles, the brand has stood for more than transportation; it has symbolized resilience, freedom and the ability to go anywhere, do anything,” said Jeep Brand CEO Bob Broderdorf in a news release.

Together with Marvel, the Jeep® brand reveals “The Original Superheroes" 2026 Summer of Jeep marketing and advertising campaign. (Stellantis)