Summary
From Navy veteran to internet sensation, Kenny Jary proves that you’re never too old to fall in love with a cool car.
Have you ever noticed how older adults sometimes rediscover the world with childlike wonder? For Kenny Jary, an 83-year-old Navy veteran and TikTok star known as Patriotic Kenny, that moment came when he took his very first ride in the all-electric 2025 Volkswagen ID.
Buzz—a retro-inspired minivan that’s both a blast from the past and a symbol of the future.
The result? A wholesome, heart-melting viral video that’s delighting millions across the internet.
The Icon Returns: Volkswagen ID. Buzz Sparks Joy
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz may be an electric minivan, but it carries the soul of the original VW Microbus—a symbol of freedom, culture, and classic road trip vibes.
Now reinvented for the electric age, the ID. Buzz boasts up to dual-motor AWD, a stylish design, and enough cabin space to make long drives a joy.
It doesn’t break revolutionary ground in EV performance, but it doesn’t need to.
Its charm lies in blending nostalgia with modern comfort—and that’s exactly what enchanted Kenny.
A Viral Moment Born in Beverly Hills
The heartwarming moment happened when Kenny’s close friend and neighbor, Amanda Kline, surprised him with a rented ID.
Buzz during a trip to Beverly Hills, California.
The pair weren’t promoting anything. In fact, Volkswagen had no idea this was happening.
Kenny’s joy was pure and infectious—his childlike amazement at the design, the tech, and the way the vehicle glided down the road made it clear: this was more than just a car; it was a memory revived, a dream updated, and a moment of magic.
Meet Patriotic Kenny: TikTok’s Most Wholesome Veteran
Kenny Jary isn’t new to the spotlight. Since Amanda started his TikTok page @patriotickenny in 2021, he’s gained 2.9 million followers thanks to his humor, humility, and love for life.
The page first gained traction when Kenny’s mobility scooter broke, prompting Amanda to launch a GoFundMe to buy him a new one.
That campaign raised over $149,000—enough not only to buy a new scooter but to change lives.
With that outpouring of support, the Patriotic Kenny Foundation was born, delivering 137 mobility scooters (and counting) to veterans across the U.S. who face challenges with VA bureaucracy or limited resources.
A Mission That Goes Beyond Mobility
The Patriotic Kenny Foundation does more than hand out scooters—it offers dignity, independence, and gratitude to veterans who gave so much.
Amanda and Kenny believe that the men and women who served deserve better than red tape and budget-level equipment.
They deserve the best—and their foundation ensures they get it.
You can support their mission or nominate a veteran by visiting the Patriotic Kenny Foundation’s official website.
Chocolate, California, and a Minivan Full of Memories
Believe it or not, the ID. Buzz moment was just one part of Kenny and Amanda’s Beverly Hills adventure—which also involved fancy chocolate and sweet surprises.
Their TikTok journey isn’t just about viral videos—it’s about living life to the fullest, no matter your age.
Why Volkswagen Should Step In
The ID. Buzz video wasn’t an ad. It was authentic, joyful, and deeply human—everything modern marketing hopes to capture.
If Volkswagen is watching, it would be wise to give Kenny and Amanda a call.
Not only did they showcase the vehicle in the best possible light, but they did so without a single dime in sponsorship.
This kind of free, heartfelt promotion is rare—and powerful.
Other brands have capitalized on similar moments.
Toyota, for example, gifted a new Tundra to a loyal owner who drove his past the 1-million-mile mark. Volkswagen could make a similarly impactful gesture by teaming up with Kenny for future content—or, better yet, by putting him behind the wheel of a Buzz full-time.
TopSpeed’s Take: A Win-Win for Everyone
In an age of paid influencers and polished promotions, Kenny’s experience stands out because it’s real.
He’s not trying to sell you anything—he’s just genuinely thrilled to discover the joy of something new, even in his 80s.
That’s the kind of story that connects with audiences of all ages.
It’s also a reminder that life’s adventures don’t end—they just evolve.
So here’s hoping Volkswagen steps up. Because the ID.
Buzz already has a passionate fan—and he’s got nearly 3 million people watching.