Airmen get behind- scenes look at need for SPEED

Luke Air Force Base Airmen unfurl the American flag Sunday during the singing of The Star Spangled Banner at the opening ceremony of the CampingWorld.com 500 at the Phoenix International Raceway in Avondale. The flag presentation was featured on national television. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Devante Williams)

Airmen get behind- scenes look at need for SPEED

Senior Airman Tyler Carson, 56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance technician, takes a selfie with Aric Almirola, NASCAR driver, at PIR. Almirola talked with the Airmen and signed autographs. Each of nine Luke Airmen received a “Hot Pass,” which allowed access to behind-the-scenes areas. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Devante Williams)

Airmen get behind- scenes look at need for SPEED

Published March 20, 2015
By Senior Airman Devante Williams
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- NASCAR is known for fast cars and intense action, but they are also known for supporting military members throughout the NASCAR season. Their program, NASCAR Troops to the Track, is a season-long initiative that honors members of the military for their service and treats them to customized experiences at the races. The program is a way for NASCAR to say "Thank you" to military members and gives those who serve a behind-the-scenes view of one of America's most popular sports.

Nine Luke Airmen met with drivers and crewmembers Sunday before the CampingWorld.com500 at Phoenix International Raceway in Avondale. They also met the Air Force-sponsored driver No. 43 Aric Almirola who thanked them for their service and signed their NASCAR posters.

"The hard work they do and dedication to our country is amazing," Almirola said. "We love having the military come out and be a part of our races. It's awesome that they get to see how we operate and meet with the crews that make it happen."

The Airmen were treated to an up-close look into the motor sport and were given special access to areas most fans rarely see. They viewed the safety brief given to owners, drivers and crew chiefs before all races, and toured the garage and pit areas while the crews were getting ready for the day's race.

"It was definitely a day I will remember for a long time," said Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Dodd, 56th Maintenance Group maintenance instructor. "It's amazing that NASCAR took the time and gave us an inside look at what they do."

Kevin Dawson, 56th Comptroller Squadron finance technician, has been a NASCAR fan since he was a boy and watches NASCAR every opportunity he gets.

"Being close to the action and watching how they prepare was amazing," he said. "It's definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will cherish."