On 19Jun04 I purchased a car at Hustedt Hyundai Inc. During negotiations I told him I was a member of the Air National Guard and had come back from Iraq in December. I made it clear to him I was no longer on active duty and presented him with my Air National Guard id card and a copy of my guard paystub as well as my regular job paystub. The salesman told me I was entitled to a $750 military rebate. This rebate was one of the reasons I purchased the car.
11Sep04 I received a letter from a lawyer, Mr Francis L. Bosco, stating I was not entitled to the $750 rebate and to remit payment in the sum stated above in 14 days or face court action.
I called the attorney and asked him what this was about. He told me I knew and demanded payment. I told him this is the first I am hearing about this. After speaking with him I called Hyundai customer service and was told the dealership was wrong but they could not do anything for me. I then called the dealership and spoke to the general manager. He told me it was out of his hands because the lawyer has the case.
We went to court on 13Dec04. We had to go before an arbitrator. The arbitrator allowed the attorney for Hustedt to present three documents but would not allow me to present any documentation. I must mention I did sign a rebate form, unknown to me, which stated I had to be active duty to receive the rebate. I don't know if this form was filled out prior to my signing it. I received a judgement against me in the amount of $750 plus interest. On the judgement the court checked the box which stated I failed to appear. I am looking into appealing the decision at this time.
All members of the Guard who have served and are presently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan should be aware of the rebates offered for their military service. Hyundai Motor Company and Hustedt Hyundai Inc will not recognize your service and sacrifices for our country.
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