Crown Royal presents the ‘Combat Wounded Coalition 400’ at the Brickyard! (#NASCAR)

Unending Sacrifices – The Giving Continues

Just when NASCAR Race Mom thought that it could not get any better, the Crown Royal up the emotional level once more. The Crown Royal ‘Your Hero’s Name Here 400’ is one of the summer’s biggest NASCAR races. This will mark the tenth time the Crown Royal brand has awarded NASCAR race naming rights to an adult fan.

After receiving hundreds of entries during the nomination period, five heroes were chosen as finalists and adult fans had the opportunity to cast their votes for the person they felt was most deserving of the honor. The Crown Royal Presents the ‘Your Hero's Name Here 400’ race is Crown Royal’s commitment to give our American heroes the recognition they deserve. From firefighters and police officers, to local volunteers, the company is to giving back to these individuals and their communities.

Each and every “Race Naming” event is very special in its own way. Whether it is Matthew Hansen who opted to honor his fallen twin with the ‘Crown Royal Presents the Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400’ (2011) to last year’s ‘Crown Royal Presents the Jeff Kyle 400’ which recognized the brother of slain U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

However, when it was announced that this year’s winner, Jason Redman’s naming decision was announced, it brought a tear to my eye. This is the first time the race will be named after a charity.

In just a few short weeks, racing fans from across the country will flock to Indianapolis for one of NASCAR’s biggest events of the summer. And despite being named the winner of the annual Crown Royal “Your Hero’s Name Here” program, which renames the Brickyard 400 after a deserving hero, retired U.S. Navy SEAL Jason Redman’s name won’t be displayed around the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway – for good reason.

Redman instead asked that the race bear the name of the charity he and his wife, Erica, founded. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race will officially be referred to as the ‘Crown Royal presents the Combat Wounded Coalition 400’ at the Brickyard!

Today, during a special surprise event in Suffolk, Va., Redman was announced the winner of the annual program while completing his one hundredth skydiving jump. Redman witnessed the reveal of the official race logo, painted in the landing area at Skydive Suffolk, from mid-air as he approached the ground.

"To jump out of a plane, link up with a bunch of friends and even individuals we have helped with the non-profit and then to fly down and actually see the logo with your name on it on the ground was something I will never forget." – Jason Redman.

After the logo unveiling, Redman was greeted by Erica, Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles, and Crown Royal Associate Brand Manager Dany Penn. Redman was then escorted to a nearby hangar for a party where he was able to celebrate the announcement with his closest friends, colleagues and family.

“What an amazing and humbling opportunity to have my organization as the official title of the Brickyard 400. This race is an icon of NASCAR, Americanism and patriotism,” said Redman after being named the winner of the 2016 “Your Hero’s Name Here” program. “I can’t wait to arrive in Indianapolis and meet the fellow finalists, the awesome race fans, drivers and crews!”

Redman, of Chesapeake, Va., enlisted in the Navy following high school and served 11 years as an enlisted SEAL before enrolling at Old Dominion University. After graduation, Redman was commissioned as a Naval SEAL Officer and served ten more years. Throughout his career he served five deployments including two combat deployments.

In 2007, Redman’s Assault Team came under heavy machine gun fire and he was wounded with shots to the face and left arm. While recovering from his 37 surgeries at Bethesda Naval Medical Center, Redman wrote and hung a sign on his door which became a statement and symbol for wounded warriors everywhere. The original sign on the door now hangs in the Wounded Ward at the National Naval Medical Center Bethesda. Redman was honored with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medals and two Combat Action Ribbons.

Following his recovery, Redman founded the non-profit organizations Combat Wounded Coalition and Wounded Wear to help combat wounded warriors overcome the wounds of war. The Combat Wounded Coalition provides free clothing, clothing modifications, and connections to other vetted service organizations for combat wounded warrior needs. To date, the Combat Wounded Coalition has helped over 500 wounded warriors return to daily life after serving.

In addition to Redman, program finalists included: Piper Hill, retired Army Captain and founder of Healing4Heroes from Atlanta, Ga.; Michael Gallardo, retired Army Sergeant from San Antonio, Texas; Chris Mintz, former Army Infantryman and community leader from Roseburg, Ore. and Leigh Ann Hester, Army National Guard Sergeant First Class and Police Officer from Murfreesboro, Tenn.

“Jason Redman’s perseverance to overcome all of the adversities he faced is truly remarkable. The dedication he has to helping veterans and families is a direct reflection of his generous nature,” said Dany Penn, Associate Brand Manager for Crown Royal. “The race on July 24th will mark an exciting event and first NASCAR race experience for Redman and we can’t wait for him to see his charity’s name in lights at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.”

As the “Your Hero’s Name Here” winner, Redman will receive the ultimate VIP race weekend experience, including garage tours, driver introductions and pace car rides. He’ll cap off race day by delivering the trophy bearing his charity’s name to the winner in Victory Lane.

“We can’t wait to host Jason later this month at one of the most prestigious events on the NASCAR calendar,” Boles said. “This race has resonated with fans, drivers and teams with how it honors heroes, and this year’s installment is our most special yet with the Combat Wounded Coalition.”

While raising a glass to the heroes in your life,
Crown Royal reminds consumers to please drink responsibly.

About Crown Royal® Canadian Whisky

Crown Royal Canadian Whisky is the number one selling Canadian whisky brand in the US by value and has a tradition as long and distinctive as its taste. Specially blended to commemorate a grand tour of Canada made by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain in 1939, Crown Royal Canadian Whisky's smooth, elegant style reflects its aristocratic origins and is considered the epitome of Canadian whisky. For more information, visit www.crownroyal.com. Crown Royal encourages all consumers to please drink responsibly.

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits, beer and wine categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan's and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff, Ciroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com/en-us/Pages/default.aspx. Visit Diageo's global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

About Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world’s largest spectator sporting facility, has been the worldwide leader in motorsports entertainment since opening in 1909. Its events in 2016 include the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil, the world's largest single-day annual sporting event. Living up to its reputation as the “Racing Capital of the World,” IMS also hosts the Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis in the Verizon IndyCar Series, the ‘Crown Royal presents the Combat Wounded Coalition 400’ at the Brickyard in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, the Lilly Diabetes 250 in the NASCAR XFINITY Series, the Brickyard Vintage Racing Invitational in the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association and the Red Bull Air Race.

Just Five Days Left To Vote For A Deserving Hero (#‎CrownHeroes #NASCAR)

Voting for the Crown Royal Presents the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 at the Brickyard ends Thurday

One of the five finalists listed below will receive naming rights to the 2016 Crown Royal Presents the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 at the Brickyard. Select a story below to learn more about these deserving heroes and vote for the one whose name you'd like to see in lights at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Voting is allowed once per day and ends June 9th. 

Click here to vote

Meet Retired Navy SEAL and Founder of
Combat Wounded Coalition - Jason Redman

Jason Redman, 40, of Chesapeake, Va. is a retired Navy SEAL, motivational speaker, author of The Trident and founder of Combat Wounded Coalition. Redman enlisted in the Navy following high school and served ten years as an enlisted SEAL before enrolling at Old Dominion University. After graduation, Redman was commissioned as a Naval SEAL Officer. Over his career he served five deployments total including two combat deployments. In 2007, while on an operation in Iraq to capture an Al Qaeda High Value Individual, Redman’s Assault Team came under heavy machine gun fire and he was wounded with shots to the face and left arm. While recovering from his 37 surgeries at Bethesda Naval Medical Center, Redman wrote and hung a sign on his door which became a statement and symbol for wounded warriors everywhere. The original sign on the door now hangs in the Wounded Ward at the National Naval Medical Center Bethesda. Redman was honored with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medals and two Combat Action Ribbons. Following his recovery, Redman founded the non-profit Combat Wounded Coalition and Wounded Wear to help combat wounded warriors overcome the wounds of war. In 2013, Redman founded his speaking company, SOF Spoken sharing his message of leadership, teamwork, and overcoming adversity to many organizations including the Marriott Corporation, McDonalds, the NFL Cincinnati Bengals, the San Diego Padres and the US Men’s 2010 Olympic Hockey team. Although the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 will be his first NASCAR race, Redman had the privilege of speaking at a NASCAR conference in 2013.

Meet Retired Army Captain and Founder
of Healing4Heroes - Piper Hill

Piper Hill, 45, of Atlanta, Ga. is a retired Army Captain and founder of the charity Healing4Heroes. Hill joined the Army Reserves in 1990 and was an active duty officer from 1995 until 2009, when she was officially retired from the Temporary Disabled Retirement List for injuries that incurred while on active duty. She suffered from PTSD & a brain injury that occurred while serving in the Army. While recovering, Hill remembers one thing from those years – her dog Valentine, who stayed by her side every day. Hill trained Valentine to become a service dog giving her the strength and endurance to become healthy again. Thus, Healing4Heroes began. The non-profit organization provides trained and free-of-charge service dogs for wounded service members, as well as to those with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other cognitive issues or illnesses. Hill has provided over 220 veterans with service dogs nationwide and continues to help and provide for veterans every day. Through her initiatives, Hill has established herself as a helper, healer and heroine within the veteran community, changing many lives for the better. “Healing4Heroes is my way of giving back to the incredible soldiers I led and loved,” Hill said. “They have sacrificed so very much to give us this incredible country we are so blessed to live in.” Hill is extremely excited and humbled to be a finalist for the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400, and looks forward to bringing her sister to the big race.

Meet Former Army Infantryman
and Community Hero - Chris Mintz

Chris Mintz, 30, of Roseburg, Ore. is a former Army infantryman and community hero. On October 1st, 2015 a gunman entered Umpqua Community College and fatally shot an assistant professor and eight students. Mintz, a student at the community college, responded to screams and gun shots coming from an adjacent classroom, using his body to block the connecting door and allowing his class to escape. He then alerted other students when he was shot five times by the gunman. When medical assistance arrived, Mintz was rushed to Mercy Medical Center where he was told he would have to learn to walk again, but the only thought running through Mintz’s mind was his son who was turning six that day. Today, Chris continues to receive medical treatment and physical therapy for his wounds, but he is back in school at UCC to study marketing and is continuing to work and take care of his son. Driven by his desire to inspire others to always rise to the call of heroism, Mintz intends to use his marketing degree to become a motivational speaker and personal trainer. Although his injuries have disabled him from ever competing again, Mintz continues to train in mixed martial arts in hopes of overcoming his disabilities and instilling his motivation to overcome in others. “I’m just a normal guy who was doing what anyone should,” said Mintz. As a longtime NASCAR lover who hails from Richard Petty’s hometown, Mintz is looking forward to cheering for Dale Earnhardt Jr. at the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400.

Meet Active Army National Guard Sergeant First Class
and Police Officer - Leigh Ann Hester

Leigh Ann Hester, 34, of Murfreesboro, Tenn. is a United States Army National Guard Sergeant First Class and Police Officer in Franklin, Tenn. Since her enlistment in 2001, Hester has been deployed three times – twice to Afghanistan and once to Iraq. During a deployment in Iraq, Hester and her squad were ambushed (and largely outnumbered) by enemy forces. Hester incapacitated the group of insurgents and successfully maneuvered her squad to safety without any comrade casualties. Her courageous actions make Hester the first female since World War II to receive a Silver Star. Hester has also received a Bronze Star and an Army Commendation medal for her military service. Hester has demonstrated her strong commitment to serving this country as an active National Guard Sergeant, but she has also been a Police Officer with the Franklin Police Department for the last 10 years. As an officer, Hester has a direct impact on her community by keeping it safe and crime-free. Her integral role helps protect the citizens of Franklin and her military experience is an asset to the law enforcement team she works so closely with on a daily basis. “My biggest accomplishment is staying in the service and being a police officer for this long,” said Hester. “It’s not always an easy job to do.” Hester has grown up watching NASCAR and, although she has never attended a race before, is looking forward to making the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 an unforgettable experience.

Meet Retired Army Sergeant
- Michael Gallardo

Michael Gallardo, 31, of San Antonio, Texas joined the Army in November of 2004 and was deployed in 2006 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom when his life changed forever. Serving with a reconnaissance unit on Death Row route, named after countless IED-led ambushes, Gallardo’s unit purposely ran over an IED to protect the members of his mission. After the blast Gallardo noticed his truck commander stuck in the vehicle and tried to free him, severing his Achilles tendon in the process, and causing him to later lose his left leg after 15+ surgeries. After this tragic event, Gallardo’s life came to a halt – he could either turn for the worse or fight through the loss of his limb, PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. Fortunately, Gallardo decided to use his passion for physical fitness as a driver to begin training for marathons, triathlons, and an Ironman. When veterans organization Guardian For Heroes stepped in to pay for Gallardo’s gym membership, his love for CrossFit was born. From being told he may never walk properly again to becoming one of the fittest men in the CrossFit world, Gallardo’s determination is that of a true warrior. At a young age, Gallardo’s mother and personal hero taught him to always help people without asking for anything in return in which he lives by this notion every day to honor her memory. Today, Gallardo works with veterans providing counseling and training advice and is active in many veteran organizations and within the CrossFit community. When Gallardo found out he was one of the finalists in the “Your Hero’s Name Here” program he was grinning ear to ear. “I’m honored to show fellow veterans if I can do it, they can do it too.”

Don't miss the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series on Sunday, July 24th at the 23rd Running of the 2016 Crown Royal Presents the 'Your Hero's Name Here' 400 at the Brickyard!

Click here to get your tickets to this year’s Crown Royal Presents the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 at the Brickyard.

Must be 21 or older to vote. 1 vote per day. Use of automated means of voting prohibited. Determination of Grand Prize winner will take into account public vote results, but Finalist with most votes may not be the Grand Prize winner. For complete details, see Official Rules. Sponsor: Diageo Americas, Inc., Norwalk, CT. CROWN ROYAL Blended Canadian Whisky. 40% Alc/Vol. © 2016 The Crown Royal Company Norwalk, CT.

Please Drink Responsibly.

The Brickyard 400 Race Namesake To Be Determined By The Fans (#nascar #crownheroes)

Every year, Crown Royal honors a hero with naming rights to the Brickyard 400, one of #NASCAR's biggest races, as part of the "Your Hero's Name Here" Program.

With Indianapolis crowned as the racing capital of the world, Indianapolis Motor Speedway has the ability to make a dream come true for one lucky hero at NASCAR’s most popular summer race.

Adult consumers can go to CrownRoyalHeroes.com to vote for the hero they think is most deserving of naming rights to the race. Voting runs through June 9th and the grand prize winner will be announced shortly after. 

Each of the five finalists have truly inspiring stories featuring determination, generosity and courage! They will be flown to Indianapolis to attend the race, and the grand prize winner will be provided with a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ experience, which will include delivering the trophy bearing his or her moniker to the race winner in Victory Lane!

Click Here To Read Their Motivating Stories

Remember to Vote Daily And Encourage Your Friends To Do So Too.

Help make a hero's’ dream come true.

* Must be 21 or older to vote. One vote per day. For complete details, see Official Rules.

Please Drink Responsibly.

 

 

Related Stories:

1. Crown Royal’s #NASCAR Your Hero's Name Here 400
2. Nominate Your Hero for the 2016 Crown Royal “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400
3. Christmas Ornament Produces #NASCAR Memories

Crown Royal’s #NASCAR Your Hero's Name Here 400

Vote For A Deserving Hero

One of the five finalists listed below will receive naming rights to the 2016 Crown Royal Presents the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 at the Brickyard. Select a story below to learn more about these deserving heroes and vote for the one whose name you'd like to see in lights at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Voting is allowed once per day and ends June 9th.
Click here to vote

Meet Retired Navy SEAL and Founder of
Combat Wounded Coalition - Jason Redman

Jason Redman, 40, of Chesapeake, Va. is a retired Navy SEAL, motivational speaker, author of The Trident and founder of Combat Wounded Coalition. Redman enlisted in the Navy following high school and served ten years as an enlisted SEAL before enrolling at Old Dominion University. After graduation, Redman was commissioned as a Naval SEAL Officer. Over his career he served five deployments total including two combat deployments. In 2007, while on an operation in Iraq to capture an Al Qaeda High Value Individual, Redman’s Assault Team came under heavy machine gun fire and he was wounded with shots to the face and left arm. While recovering from his 37 surgeries at Bethesda Naval Medical Center, Redman wrote and hung a sign on his door which became a statement and symbol for wounded warriors everywhere. The original sign on the door now hangs in the Wounded Ward at the National Naval Medical Center Bethesda. Redman was honored with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medals and two Combat Action Ribbons. Following his recovery, Redman founded the non-profit Combat Wounded Coalition and Wounded Wear to help combat wounded warriors overcome the wounds of war. In 2013, Redman founded his speaking company, SOF Spoken sharing his message of leadership, teamwork, and overcoming adversity to many organizations including the Marriott Corporation, McDonalds, the NFL Cincinnati Bengals, the San Diego Padres and the US Men’s 2010 Olympic Hockey team. Although the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 will be his first NASCAR race, Redman had the privilege of speaking at a NASCAR conference in 2013.

Meet Retired Army Captain and Founder
of Healing4Heroes - Piper Hill

Piper Hill, 45, of Atlanta, Ga. is a retired Army Captain and founder of the charity Healing4Heroes. Hill joined the Army Reserves in 1990 and was an active duty officer from 1995 until 2009, when she was officially retired from the Temporary Disabled Retirement List for injuries that incurred while on active duty. She suffered from PTSD & a brain injury that occurred while serving in the Army. While recovering, Hill remembers one thing from those years – her dog Valentine, who stayed by her side every day. Hill trained Valentine to become a service dog giving her the strength and endurance to become healthy again. Thus, Healing4Heroes began. The non-profit organization provides trained and free-of-charge service dogs for wounded service members, as well as to those with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other cognitive issues or illnesses. Hill has provided over 220 veterans with service dogs nationwide and continues to help and provide for veterans every day. Through her initiatives, Hill has established herself as a helper, healer and heroine within the veteran community, changing many lives for the better. “Healing4Heroes is my way of giving back to the incredible soldiers I led and loved,” Hill said. “They have sacrificed so very much to give us this incredible country we are so blessed to live in.” Hill is extremely excited and humbled to be a finalist for the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400, and looks forward to bringing her sister to the big race.

Meet Former Army Infantryman
and Community Hero - Chris Mintz

Chris Mintz, 30, of Roseburg, Ore. is a former Army infantryman and community hero. On October 1st, 2015 a gunman entered Umpqua Community College and fatally shot an assistant professor and eight students. Mintz, a student at the community college, responded to screams and gun shots coming from an adjacent classroom, using his body to block the connecting door and allowing his class to escape. He then alerted other students when he was shot five times by the gunman. When medical assistance arrived, Mintz was rushed to Mercy Medical Center where he was told he would have to learn to walk again, but the only thought running through Mintz’s mind was his son who was turning six that day. Today, Chris continues to receive medical treatment and physical therapy for his wounds, but he is back in school at UCC to study marketing and is continuing to work and take care of his son. Driven by his desire to inspire others to always rise to the call of heroism, Mintz intends to use his marketing degree to become a motivational speaker and personal trainer. Although his injuries have disabled him from ever competing again, Mintz continues to train in mixed martial arts in hopes of overcoming his disabilities and instilling his motivation to overcome in others. “I’m just a normal guy who was doing what anyone should,” said Mintz. As a longtime NASCAR lover who hails from Richard Petty’s hometown, Mintz is looking forward to cheering for Dale Earnhardt Jr. at the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400.

Meet Active Army National Guard Sergeant First Class
and Police Officer - Leigh Ann Hester

Leigh Ann Hester, 34, of Murfreesboro, Tenn. is a United States Army National Guard Sergeant First Class and Police Officer in Franklin, Tenn. Since her enlistment in 2001, Hester has been deployed three times – twice to Afghanistan and once to Iraq. During a deployment in Iraq, Hester and her squad were ambushed (and largely outnumbered) by enemy forces. Hester incapacitated the group of insurgents and successfully maneuvered her squad to safety without any comrade casualties. Her courageous actions make Hester the first female since World War II to receive a Silver Star. Hester has also received a Bronze Star and an Army Commendation medal for her military service. Hester has demonstrated her strong commitment to serving this country as an active National Guard Sergeant, but she has also been a Police Officer with the Franklin Police Department for the last 10 years. As an officer, Hester has a direct impact on her community by keeping it safe and crime-free. Her integral role helps protect the citizens of Franklin and her military experience is an asset to the law enforcement team she works so closely with on a daily basis. “My biggest accomplishment is staying in the service and being a police officer for this long,” said Hester. “It’s not always an easy job to do.” Hester has grown up watching NASCAR and, although she has never attended a race before, is looking forward to making the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 an unforgettable experience.

Meet Retired Army Sergeant
- Michael Gallardo

Michael Gallardo, 31, of San Antonio, Texas joined the Army in November of 2004 and was deployed in 2006 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom when his life changed forever. Serving with a reconnaissance unit on Death Row route, named after countless IED-led ambushes, Gallardo’s unit purposely ran over an IED to protect the members of his mission. After the blast Gallardo noticed his truck commander stuck in the vehicle and tried to free him, severing his Achilles tendon in the process, and causing him to later lose his left leg after 15+ surgeries. After this tragic event, Gallardo’s life came to a halt – he could either turn for the worse or fight through the loss of his limb, PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. Fortunately, Gallardo decided to use his passion for physical fitness as a driver to begin training for marathons, triathlons, and an Ironman. When veterans organization Guardian For Heroes stepped in to pay for Gallardo’s gym membership, his love for CrossFit was born. From being told he may never walk properly again to becoming one of the fittest men in the CrossFit world, Gallardo’s determination is that of a true warrior. At a young age, Gallardo’s mother and personal hero taught him to always help people without asking for anything in return in which he lives by this notion every day to honor her memory. Today, Gallardo works with veterans providing counseling and training advice and is active in many veteran organizations and within the CrossFit community. When Gallardo found out he was one of the finalists in the “Your Hero’s Name Here” program he was grinning ear to ear. “I’m honored to show fellow veterans if I can do it, they can do it too.”

Don't miss the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series on Sunday, July 24th at the 23rd Running of the 2016 Crown Royal Presents the 'Your Hero's Name Here' 400 at the Brickyard!

Click here to get your tickets to this year’s Crown Royal Presents the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 at the Brickyard.

Must be 21 or older to vote. 1 vote per day. Use of automated means of voting prohibited. Determination of Grand Prize winner will take into account public vote results, but Finalist with most votes may not be the Grand Prize winner. For complete details, see Official Rules. Sponsor: Diageo Americas, Inc., Norwalk, CT. CROWN ROYAL Blended Canadian Whisky. 40% Alc/Vol. © 2016 The Crown Royal Company Norwalk, CT.

Please Drink Responsibly.

Nominate Your Hero for the 2016 Crown Royal “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400

Just a reminder – you have just over two weeks left to participate in Crown Royal’s "Your Hero's Name Here" Contest. February 28th – 2016 is the deadline for you to nominate your hero to win the naming rights to the 2016 Crown Royal “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 at the Brickyard race scheduled to be held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 24, 2016.

The grand prize winner of competition will receive naming rights to the Brickyard 400. This race represents the ultimate celebration of heroes and the winner will be provided with an once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience.

The winner will receive:

• His or her name on the race

  

  John Wayne Walding and NRM

• Airfare and accommodations
• Wave green flag at qualifying
• Attend driver autograph session
• VIP pit tour
• Pace car ride
• Victory lane appearance
• And so much more!

Interesting Fact: To date, no woman has been voted the grand prize winner. 

The Past Winners

2007 - Jim Stewart,
2008 - Dan Lowry
2009 - Russell Friedman
2010 - Heath Calhoun, Army
2011 - Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400
2012 - Curtiss Shaver
2013 - Samuel Deeds
2014 - John Wayne Walding
2015 – Jeff Kyle

True heroes set an example for us all to follow.
You still have time; click here to nominate.

NASCAR Race Mom with 2013 Winner Samuel Deeds
in the Pagoda Suite at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

*Must be 21 or older to vote. 1 vote per day. Use of automated means of voting prohibited. Determination of Grand Prize winner will take into account public vote results, but Finalist with most votes may not be the Grand Prize winner. Click Here for Contest Rules.

Christmas Ornament Produces #NASCAR Memories

NASCAR Race Mom really enjoyed the post quoted below by Jeff Davis.

Davis is a former NASCAR driver from Anaheim, CA. He competed in three Sprint Cup Series events in his career. His first race was in 1992 at the Phoenix International Raceway, in his own equipment and produced his best finish. He started thirty-ninth in the field of forty-two and completed all but thirteen laps in route to a solid 26th place effort.

Davis also participated in the K&N Pro Series West from 1992 to 2005. In 1994, he finished fourth in the series point standings.

I love this time of year since it brings up some good old memories. Luckily I thought to buy this Christmas tree ornament in 1999 which was the second time that I tried to qualify for the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis. The first time was the inaugural in 1994 which was only a week after my first child Jake had been born.

That '94 event was cool since they put us Winston West teams in Gasoline Alley interspaced between Winston Cup guys. They put us in points order between Cup teams that were also in points order. So since I was in 4th place in Winston West, I was garaged next to Mark Martin.

Boy do I wish I'd taken some photos of that maybe even with both drivers and our cars. I bet some of my team members have some cool photos buried away in boxes since those were in the days of film for photos and Fotomat printing them. - Jeff Davis

The inaugural Brickyard 400 Jeff remembers was held on Saturday, August 6, 1994, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The race marked the nineteenth race of the 1994 NASCAR Winston Cup Series season. It was first race held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway besides the Indianapolis 500 since the Harvest Classic in 1916. The race featured the largest crowd in NASCAR history, and a then NASCAR record purse of $3.2 million.

NASCAR Race Mom's Brickyard Memory:

NASCAR Race Mom was able to celebrate in the winner's circle with Jeff Gordon in 2014.   Jeff Gordon became the first five-time NASCAR winner at Indy, snatching the lead from Hendrick Motorsports teammate Kasey Kahne on a restart with 17 laps remaining and holding on for his second Sprint Cup victory this season and the 90th of his career .

Back to the Future:

Make your own memories and don't miss the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series on Sunday, July 24th at the 23rd Running of the 2016 Crown Royal Presents the 'Your Hero's Name Here' 400 at the Brickyard!

Consumers twenty-one (21) and older, please take a moment and visit CrownRoyalHeroes.com to nominate your own heroes for a chance to have the Brickyard 400 renamed in their honor.

Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 28 and five finalists will be chosen with a chance to win naming rights to the 2016 Brickyard 400.

Click here for related Post

Crown Royal’s 2016 “Your Hero’s Name Here” program

Honoring People Who Make A Difference Every Day #CrownHeroes

 

As the cars begin to roll into the Phoenix International Raceway, this event marks the second official weekend for the search of the 2016 Brickyard 400 race namesake. Crown Royal recently kicked off their “Your Hero’s Name Here” program, which honors a deserving American hero by re-naming the July NASCAR race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in his or her honor.

Concluding a weeklong celebration of heroes, individuals across the country were recognized as inaugural nominees for the program. Each individual was given access to a special experience – receiving tickets to award shows, professional football games and the upcoming Phoenix NASCAR race.

With the help from Phoenix-based charity ‘Packages From Home’  a group of local heroes will be in attendance who serve as working dog handlers at Luke Air Force Base and are some of the first program nominees. 

Packages From Home's mission is to send care and comfort packages to deployed American military heroes who are stationed in active duty theaters around the world, as well as to facilitate activities that elevate morale of all veterans

Celebrating the 10th year, Crown Royal has honored individuals who go above and beyond while giving back to their communities – from firefighters and military personnel, to police officers and first responders, by offering them an once-in-a-lifetime experience during race weekend.

Consumers twenty-one (21) and older, please take a moment and visit CrownRoyalHeroes.com to nominate your own heroes for a chance to have the Brickyard 400 renamed in their honor. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 28 and five finalists will be chosen with a chance to win naming rights to the 2016 Brickyard 400.

The grand prize winner of Crown Royal’s “Your Hero’s Name Here Program” will receive naming rights to the Brickyard 400®. Held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 24, 2016, the race represents the ultimate celebration of heroes and the winner will be provided with an once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience.

Learn about the Packages From Home organization

Click Here to Nominate a Hero

Must be 21 or older to vote. 1 vote per day.

Please Drink Responsibly.

Kyle presents Gordon with Crown Royal XR (#nascar)

Crown Royal XR is made for celebrating special moments and is the top variant in the whisky's portfolio. (Take it from me – it is tasty!) Sunday’s race is expected to be the final Brickyard start for NASCAR Star, Jeff Gordon, who is calling it quits from full-time racing at season's end. 

Nominated for Crown Royal's "Your Hero's Name Here" program by one of his heroes, 2014 "Your Hero's Name Here" Brickyard namesake John Wayne Walding, Jeff Kyle learned that he was this year's winner while attending a Texas Rangers baseball game in his home state earlier this summer.

Along with this honor came many perks including a once-in-a-lifetime experience throughout the weekend – meeting NASCAR drivers, touring the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway and waving the green flag for race qualifying, before handing the trophy bearing his name to the race winner in Victory Lane. 

Invited inside Jeff Gordon's No. 24 hauler, Kyle presented the five-time Brickyard 400 winner with a bottle of Crown Royal XR -- short for extra rare -- and a specially embroidered bag congratulating Gordon on his racing career.

"Just being able to meet him in person and shake his hand and chit-chat with him for a minute, for him to take the time before qualifying, is huge," said Kyle, a recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal for leading the first Marine detachment to transport a nuclear submarine through hostile waters. "For him to be able to talk to little ole me, that was really cool."

#jeffkyle400

Photo Credit: Marianna Massey

#‎JeffKyle400‬ Recognizing heroes - Crown Royal Presents the Jeff Kyle 400 at the Brickyard

Yesterday was an exciting day for Jeff Kyle, the winner of Crown Royal’s annual “Your Hero’s Name Here” program. “Your Hero’s Name Here” awards the naming rights to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to a deserving hero. Jeff Kyle certainly fits that bill! 

Crown Royal's "Your Hero's Name Here" winner and Brickyard 400 race namesake,
U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Jeff Kyle, right, is honored by Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard
with the proclamation of Jeff Kyle Day in Indianapolis, Friday, July 24, 2015.
(AJ Mast /AP Images for Crown Royal)

Kyle, of Lorena, Texas, was deployed multiple times to Iraq and Africa while serving in the military for eight years. During his time with the 3rd Marine Division, Kyle received the Navy Achievement Medal for leading the first Marine detachment to transport a nuclear submarine through hostile waters.

After leaving the military, Sergeant Kyle has dedicated his life to helping his fellow servicemen and women through his tireless efforts to bring awareness to veterans’ needs. Kyle advocates for veterans across the nation and provides support through his involvement with a handful of organizations.

U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Jeff Kyle, center right, is honored by Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard, center left, and Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles, left, and Crown Royal Brand Director Matt Pechman with the proclamation of Jeff Kyle Day in Indianapolis, Friday, July 24, 2015. (AJ Mast /AP Images for Crown Royal)

As the city gears up for an action-packed weekend at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a few key individuals including Track President Doug Boles and Mayor Greg Ballard took time out of their busy schedules to honor one deserving individual, whose name you may recognize if you visit IMS this weekend.

During a special ceremony in downtown Indianapolis, Mayor Ballard proclaimed it “Jeff Kyle Day” in honor of Marine Corps Sergeant Jeff Kyle. After Mayor Ballard delivered the official proclamation to Kyle, the city dyed the canal purple in his honor. It will remain purple throughout the race weekend.

Crown Royal's "Your Hero's Name Here" winner and Brickyard 400 race namesake, U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Jeff Kyle, right, dyes the downtown canal purple with Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard after the proclamation of Jeff Kyle Day in Indianapolis, Friday, July 24, 2015. (AJ Mast /AP Images for Crown Royal)

Although Kyle served with the Marines, he says his true service started when he returned from deployment and began working to help fellow veterans. In addition to serving as a board member for the Guardian For Heroes Foundation, Kyle also works extensively with American Valor, the foundation which runs the memorial benefit to honor his brother, CPO and U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

Kyle will take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience throughout the weekend – meeting NASCAR drivers, touring the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway and waving the green flag for race qualifying, before handing the trophy bearing his name to the race winner in Victory Lane.

Kyle was nominated by the 2014 “Your Hero’s Name Here” race namesake John Wayne Walding.

Stay informed about the latest exciting Jeff Kyle 400
at the Brickyard events by using the hashtag #‎JeffKyle400

Crown Royal #NASCAR Race Naming Winner Continues to Serve At Home.

Jeff Kyle, 37, of Lorena, Texas is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant who served for eight years from 2000 – 2008 in the infantry and reserves. While serving with the 3rd Marine Division, Kyle received the Navy Achievement Medal for leading the first Marine detachment to transport a nuclear submarine through hostile waters. During his time in the military, Kyle was deployed to Iraq twice, Africa and several other locations overseas. 

When Kyle retired from the Marine Corps in 2008 he says “my military career didn’t start till I left because now I am able to truly serve my country through helping my fellow brothers.” 

As one of the founders of Texas Elite Tactical Academy, Kyle trains individuals about firearms safety through his passion to educate those in a safe environment. As a board member for the Guardian For Heroes Foundation, Kyle helps to oversee the organization’s mission – to provide free, in home fitness equipment, facilitation of donated health club memberships, individualized programs, personal training, as well as life coaching and comprehensive support to in-need veterans with disabilities. 

In addition, Kyle plays a large role as a board member on American Valor, the foundation which runs the memorial benefit to honor his brother, CPO and U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle. 

Nominated by the person he considers one of his heroes, former 2014 “Your Hero’s Name Here” race namesake John Wayne Walding, Kyle continues to dedicate his efforts to champion for military veterans and their families.

Schedule of Events - Thursday, July 23, 2015

• 05:00pm - Festivities Begin
• 05:00pm - Jai Baker Performance
• 06:00pm - Hauler Parade
• 07:00pm - Jessie Brown Performance
• 07:55pm - Haulers Depart
• 08:00pm - Hauler Parade Conclusion

Schedule of Events - Friday, July 24, 2015

• 09:00am - Gates Open
• 09:00am - 06:00pm - Fan Midway Open
• 09:00am - 10:25am - NASCAR Sprint Cup Practice
• 11:30am - 12:55pm - NASCAR XFINITY Practice
• 01:00pm - 02:25pm - NASCAR Sprint Cup Practice
• 02:30pm - 03:55pm - NASCAR XFINITY Practice
• 04:00pm - 05:55pm - NASCAR Sprint Cup  Practice
• 06:00pm - Gates Close

Schedule of Events - Saturday, July 25, 2015

• 07:00am - Gates Open
• 08:00am - 06:00pm - Fan Midway Open
• 08:00am - NASCAR XFINITY Series Autograph Wristband Distribution - Plaza
• 08:00am - Kids Only Autograph Wristband Distribution - Kids Zone
• 10:00am - 10:45am - NASCAR XFINITY Series Autograph Session - Pavilion - Must have wristband to attend 11:35am - NASCAR XFINITY Series Qualifying
• 12:00pm - 12:30pm - Kids Only Autograph Session - Pavilion - Must have wristband to attend Learn More
• 01:10pm - NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Qualifying
• 02:50pm - 03:00pm - NASCAR XFINITY Series Driver 'Brick Walk' - Plaza
• 03:00pm - Driver Introductions
• 03:30pm - Invocation - George Davis
• 03:31pm - National Anthem
• 03:37pm - Drivers Start Your Engines Command
• 03:50pm - Lilly Diabetes 250 (100 Laps)
• 06:00pm - Gates Close

 

Schedule of Events - Sunday, July 26, 2015

• 10:00am - Gates Open
• 10:00am - 03:50pm - Fan Midway Open
• 12:00pm - 01:30pm - Fan Track Walk - Enter North Pit Gate, Exit South Pit Gate
• 02:21pm - Military Salute
• 02:30pm - 02:55pm - NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Driver 'Brick Walk' - Plaza
• 03:00pm - Driver Introductions
• 03:27pm - "America the Beautiful"
• 03:30pm - Invocation - Reverend Howard Brammer
• 03:31pm - "National Anthem"
• 03:33pm - Flyover
• 03:37pm - Drivers Start Your Engines Command - Mari Hulman-George
• 03:50pm - 22nd Running of the Crown Royal presents the Jeff Kyle 400 at the Brickyard (160 Laps)
• 07:30pm - Gates Close

Jeff Kyle-Your Hero's Name Here 400 Winner #nascar

Brickyard 400 Race Renamed After Military Hero

When tens of thousands of race fans visit Indianapolis Motor Speedway for one of NASCAR’s biggest races of the summer, one name will stick out among the rest. Come race day, not only will fans recognize the name within the Crown Royal Presents the “Your Hero’s Name Here” 400 race title, but they will also understand the reason why Jeff Kyle is being honored as an American hero.

Today in his home state, during a special reveal event at the Texas Rangers game, Kyle was announced as the winner of Crown Royal® Canadian Whisky’s annual “Your Hero’s Name Here” program, which awards naming rights to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to a deserving hero. As the program winner, Kyle’s name will be incorporated into the official race title, Crown Royal Presents the Jeff Kyle 400 at the Brickyard.

Kyle, of Lorena, Texas, was deployed multiple times to Iraq and Africa while serving in the military for eight years. During his time with the 3rd Marine Division, Kyle received the Navy Achievement Medal for leading the first Marine detachment to transport a nuclear submarine through hostile waters.

After leaving the military, Sergeant Kyle has dedicated his life to helping his fellow servicemen and women through his tireless efforts to bring awareness to veterans’ needs. Kyle advocates for veterans across the nation and provides support through his involvement with a handful of organizations.

A board member of the Guardian For Heroes Foundation, Kyle oversees the stewardship of the charity which provides free, in-home fitness equipment, health club memberships, personal training, life coaching and support for the disabled. He also plays a large role with American Valor, the foundation which runs the memorial benefit to honor his brother, CPO and U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle*. In addition, Kyle is one of the founders of Texas Elite Tactical Academy and trains individuals about firearms safety through his passion to educate those in a safe environment.

“Honestly, I don’t feel like I’m deserving of this recognition,” said Kyle, of being named the winner of the 2015 “Your Hero’s Name Here” program. “My true service to this country didn’t begin until I got out of the military and I’m proud to be in the position I am.”

Today at Globe Life Park in Arlington, home of the Texas Rangers, over 29,000 fans witnessed the announcement of Kyle as the 2015 “Your Hero’s Name Here” winner as the official race logo incorporating his name was unveiled during the pre-game festivities. As Kyle made his way to the mound to throw the honorary first pitch, the logo was displayed across every screen within the stadium.

After the monumental moment, Kyle was greeted off the field by his closest family and friends who surprised him in celebration of the honor, alongside representatives from Crown Royal and Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Kyle’s wife and parents were in attendance, as well as Kyle’s personal hero and nominator for the program, 2014 “Your Hero’s Name Here” race namesake and Green Beret John Wayne Walding.

“Jeff has made his sacrifice time and time again, whether he’s serving his country overseas, locally or nationally,” said Walding. “After everything he has done living his life for others, having something that is just for him will be really special.”

This will mark the ninth time the Crown Royal brand has awarded NASCAR race naming rights to an adult fan. After receiving hundreds of entries during the nomination period, five heroes were chosen as finalists and adult fans had the opportunity to cast their votes for the person they felt was most deserving of the honor. In addition to Kyle, program finalists included: Benjamin Parker, retired Army Staff Sergeant from Cincinnati, Ohio; Hector Manley, community leader from Bonita Springs, Fla.; Brendan Marrocco, retired Army Sergeant from Staten Island, N.Y.; and Margy Bons, founder of the Military Assistance Mission from Phoenix, Ariz.

“Jeff Kyle’s dedication to helping veterans in Texas and across the country is a testament to his selfless nature,” said Matt Pechman, Brand Director for Crown Royal Canadian Whisky. “The race on July 26th will mark a special event for Kyle as he’ll experience his first NASCAR race in an incredibly unique way – as the namesake!”

As the “Your Hero’s Name Here” winner, Kyle will receive the ultimate VIP race weekend, including garage tours and pace car rides before delivering the trophy bearing his name to the race winner in Victory Lane.

While raising a glass to the heroes in your life,
Crown Royal reminds consumers to please drink responsibly.

* NASCAR Race Mom just watched the Movie Based on the story of Jeff Kyle's brother's sacrifice. While the film takes several dramatic liberties with the story; I was moved and educated by this work.

Crown Royal 'Your Hero's Name Here' Finalists Named

Vote through June 7 to name Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway 

 

Click Here To Vote For A Deserving Hero

 

Since NASCAR began running the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1994, a select group of race winners including Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart and Jimmie Johnson have been brave enough to face the challenge and made their mark as kings of the historic track. This year, another name will join their ranks without ever finishing a lap... but don't think for a second this person isn't well versed in bravery.

As the grand prize winner of Crown Royal's annual "Your Hero's Name Here" program, a deserving hero's name will be etched in history with naming rights to the NASCAR race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 26, 2015.  This race will mark the ninth time Crown Royal has awarded race naming rights to an adult fan. The program focuses on all of the unsung heroes who make a difference in their communities, from firefighters and police officers to first responders and local volunteers. Every year five heroic finalists are nominated and through consumer voting, one winner is chosen to have their name cemented in sports history.

Beginning this week, adult consumers can go to CrownRoyalHeroes.com to vote for the hero they think is most deserving of naming rights to the race. Voting runs through June 7 and the grand prize winner will be announced early that month. See below for their names and bios or click here to read.

All five finalists will be flown to Indianapolis to attend the race, and the grand prize winner will be provided with a once-in-a-lifetime experience, which will include delivering the trophy bearing his or her moniker to the race winner in Victory Lane!

Jeff Kyle -- Retired U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant

Jeff Kyle, 37, of Lorena, Texas is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant who served for eight years from 2000-2008 in the infantry and reserves. While serving with the 3rd Marine Division, Kyle received the Navy Achievement Medal for leading the first Marine detachment to transport a nuclear submarine through hostile waters. During his time in the military, Kyle was deployed to Iraq twice, Africa and several other locations overseas. When Kyle retired from the Marine Corps in 2008 he says, "My military career didn't start until I left because now I am able to truly serve my country through helping my fellow brothers." As one of the founders of Texas Elite Tactical Academy, Kyle trains individuals about firearms safety through his passion to educate those in a safe environment. As a board member for the Guardian For Heroes Foundation, Kyle helps to oversee the organization's mission -- to provide free, in-home fitness equipment, facilitation of donated health club memberships, individualized programs, personal training, as well as life coaching and comprehensive support to in-need veterans with disabilities. In addition, Kyle plays a large role as a board member of American Valor, the foundation which runs the memorial benefit to honor his brother, CPO and U.S. Navy SEAL Chris Kyle. Nominated by the person he considers one of his heroes, former 2014 "Your Hero's Name Here" race namesake John Wayne Walding, Kyle continues to dedicate his efforts to champion for military veterans and their families.

Margy Bons -- Community Leader

Margy Bons, 59, of Phoenix, Ariz. is the CEO and Founder of the Military Assistance Mission (MAM). In 2005, her oldest son Michael was serving his country in Iraq when he was killed in an ambush by a suicide borne vehicle filled with IEDs. In an effort to honor her son and continue what he started, Bons created an organization with a name that contains Michael's initials. Formed in 2012, MAM's mission is to provide financial and moral aid to Arizona service members, wounded warriors and their families. MAM offers a number of programs to meet their needs including paying for items like rent, utilities and car payments and offering classes on resume writing. Last year alone the organization was able to help over 7,000 Arizona families. "There are so many true heroes out there. I get to support them every day, so I am very honored and humbled to be considered a hero," said Bons. When Bons is not working at her organization, she can be found riding her motorcycle or enjoying her newfound hobby of target shooting.

Brendan Marrocco -- Retired Army Sergeant

Brendan Marrocco, 28, of Staten Island, N.Y. is a retired Army Sergeant who was deployed in 2008 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. On Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009, Marrocco's vehicle was hit with an Explosive Fired Projectile (EFP). This attack left Marrocco a quadruple amputee and the first ever U.S. soldier to survive such injuries sustained in the war. He credits his lieutenant and medic for his survival and looks up to them as his personal heroes. A determined individual, Marrocco set a goal for himself to greet his fellow soldiers returning from Iraq just four months after his injury. "It was a huge goal for me and it was an once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will cherish forever," said Marrocco. In December 2012, Marrocco underwent transplant surgery and was the first bilateral arm transplant recipient at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Since the surgery, he continues to receive intensive arm therapy at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. An avid race fan and car enthusiast, Marrocco went to the Daytona, Bristol, Richmond and Dover races last year and would have gone to more if not for touring Afghanistan for Operation Proper Exit. Marrocco has yet to attend the "Your Hero's Name Here" 400 in Indianapolis and is excited for the opportunity to take the trip in July and see his favorite driver and friend, Brad Keselowski.

Hector Manley -- Community Leader

Hector Manley, 26, of Bonita Springs, Fla. lost both legs at age 11 in a tragic accident when a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck his birth country, El Salvador in 2001. Soon after, Manley was adopted and brought to the United States where he has flourished as a community leader, volunteer and teacher. In 2012, Manley became the first double amputee to kayak the entire length of the Mississippi River. This summer adventure took Manley 93 days and, through a partnership with Rotary Clubs, he was able to raise $70,000 dollars for the Wheelchair Foundation. As a result, in 2013 he and a group of others were able to distribute over 450 wheelchairs to people in need in El Salvador and Honduras. Manley continues to raise money for charities through events including Tough Mudder races. "If I could describe myself in one word it would be driven. I look at the challenges in front of me and put a plan in place so that nothing seems impossible," said Manley. Introduced to NASCAR at age 13, Manley has been a fan ever since and a follower of his favorite driver, Tony Stewart.

Benjamin Parker -- Retired Army Staff Sergeant

Benjamin Parker, 28, of Cincinnati, Ohio is a retired Army Staff Sergeant who was deployed to Afghanistan twice as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader. Safely disarming more than 300 IEDs and saving countless lives during his tours of duty, Parker received two bronze stars for his bravery. "I don't consider what I did heroic. I was just doing my job," said Parker.  "I am deeply honored and humbled to be a finalist." After his second tour, Parker returned home and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Devastated to have to end his army career, Parker decided to pursue another passion. Against all odds, he received his pilot's license and now works as an aircraft mechanic. Born in Indianapolis, Parker is an avid NASCAR fan who used to set alarms and call his dad from a satellite phone overseas so they could watch races together. Parker looks forward to returning to the "Your Hero's Name Here" 400 as a finalist to watch his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr.

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