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This Memorial Day weekend, as we pay homage to our fallen heroes, NASCAR takes a grand stand, uniting with hundreds of serving military personnel at one of the most anticipated races of the year, the Coca Cola 600. Also known as the “600 Miles of Remembrance,” this event goes beyond the adrenaline rush of a conventional race.
Dating back to 2018, NASCAR has joined forces with all service branches of the Department of Defense (DOD) during the Coca Cola 600, hosted at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. The aim is to honor the immense sacrifices made by the U.S. military. In the run-up to the race, select NASCAR drivers have the privilege of visiting military bases, experiencing first-hand the reality of military service through the Mission 600 campaign.
These unique partnerships aim to foster a stronger bond between the American public and the brave men and women who dutifully serve in the U.S. military. Simultaneously, they reinforce the DOD’s community relations on a local level.
This year promises to uphold this noble tradition with an array of military-centric activities scheduled at the speedway throughout the build-up to the main race. Attendees can explore the Fan Zone situated outside the track and the inside ballfield – the track’s grassy infield. Here, they have the opportunity to participate in meet-and-greets with active service members, enjoy live performances from skilled military musicians, and witness various drill team demonstrations.
The DOD, NASCAR, and the Coca Cola 600 race represent a triad of tribute to our fallen heroes and those currently serving in the military. This shared respect and admiration underline their collective goal: to honor, recognize, and remember those who have selflessly served our nation.
A Grand Showcase of Military Talent at the Coca Cola 600 Race
This Friday ushers in an outstanding display of military talent as we head towards one of the most exciting events of the year, the Coca Cola 600. The U.S. Army Drill Team and the Air Force Heritage of America Band are set to kick off the weekend with thrilling performances for eager fans. Local and Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) students will also have the opportunity to explore over 40 interactive exhibits during the STEAM Expo, a spectacular showcase highlighting careers in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.
Saturday will see the charming Six String Soldiers, a subset of the U.S. Army Field Band, delighting crowds at the Fan Zone. In addition, the Marine Silent Drill Platoon promises a mesmerizing performance that’s not to be missed.
As Sunday dawns, it ushers in race day, a day crammed with exciting military events. The ballfield will host an array of military vehicles, with service members available to chat with fans curious about the equipment on display. Performances by the Air Force Heritage of America Band and the U.S. Navy Silent Drill Team will further enthrall spectators.
In the hour preceding the much-anticipated race, over 50 new enlistees from across all military services will partake in a joint oath of enlistment ceremony. Soldiers from Fort Bragg’s 2-319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment are also set to thrill the audience by firing an M119A3 105 mm howitzer, just before the Army 82nd Airborne Division’s All-American Chorus delivers a stirring rendition of “God Bless America,” “America the Beautiful,” and “Carolina on my Mind.”
In a touching tribute to fallen service members, all 36 drivers will have the names of these brave individuals displayed prominently on their windshields. These drivers, escorted by various service members, will also honor Gold Star Families in attendance.
The pre-race ceremony will climax with a dynamic entrance by several soldiers from an Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, before the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard takes the field. Following an invocation by an Army chaplain, the Navy Ceremonial Guard Rifle Team will execute a small-arms volley, and the U.S. Coast Guard Band will perform Taps. The National Anthem will be performed by Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Elizabeth Marino, backed by the 2nd Aircraft Marine Corps Band.
To pump up the energy further, T-38 Talons from the Air Force’s 1st Fighter Wing will present a flyover just before the race begins.
Halfway through the race, a poignant moment of silence will be observed by all drivers on Pit Road, turning off their engines in respect for our nation’s fallen heroes. This unique tribute stands as a testament to the honor and respect we hold for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
Source: Dept. of Defense
