Thursday, Mar. 18, 2010

Soldiers help introduce NASCAR drivers in Atlanta race

Thirty Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 29th Infantry Regiment, displayed a 30x60- foot American flag March 7 as part of the opening ceremonies for the NASCAR 2010 Kobalt 500 at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Soldiers formed a gauntlet for the drivers as they were introduced to the more than 150,000 spectators. Passing through the Soldiers, the drivers gave high-fives and words of encouragement were exchanged.

“Shaking Earnhardt Junior’s hand was the best thing ever,” said SSG Patrick Schultz, of 2nd Bn., 29th Inf. Regt., as quite a few drivers stopped to thank the Soldiers for serving in the Army.

Prior to the opening ceremony, Soldiers were allowed to walk around pit row and meet NASCAR drivers and crews.

It was a dream come true for many of the NASCAR fan Soldiers. SPC Jessica Kelsey said meeting her two favorite drivers was “a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

After the driver introductions were complete, the Soldiers moved to the infield grass to unfurl the flag for the National Anthem.

“Seeing the Soldiers participate in waving the colors during the National Anthem was the highlight of the race for me,” said LTC Buddy Houston, commander of 2nd Bn., 29th Inf. Regt. “All the fans were treating the Soldiers of the battalion like they were the celebrities at the race.”

Following the opening ceremony, Soldiers were able to join their families in the stands to enjoy the race or were permitted to remain on the infield to watch the race if they chose to do so.

“This was a great opportunity for our Soldiers and their families to take the day off and enjoy a NASCAR event together,” Houston said.