Kansas City, KS – This past weekend at Kansas Speedway, the roar of engines wasn’t the only powerful sound heard. Applause, gratitude, and patriotic pride echoed throughout the grandstands as service members from Vance Air Force Base and Fort Leavenworth were honored guests of the NASCAR community, thanks to the ongoing “Troops to the Track” program.
The initiative, which has become a staple of NASCAR’s broader #NASCARSalutes campaign, aims to bridge the gap between motorsports and military appreciation by giving active-duty personnel an unforgettable experience at the track. Sponsored by Team Chevy, the event offered a unique opportunity for service members to step away from their demanding duties and immerse themselves in the high-octane world of stock car racing.
A Weekend to Remember
From pit tours and garage access to meet-and-greets with drivers and teams, the visiting troops were treated like VIPs. Many had never attended a NASCAR race before and were overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the operation and the warmth of their reception. For a few hours, they were not just soldiers or airmen—they were racing insiders.
“We’re honored to host these brave men and women who serve our country with such dedication,” said Kansas Speedway President Pat Warren. “The Troops to the Track program is just one small way we can say thank you and show our appreciation for all they do.”
The program, founded in 2009, partners with military bases across the United States to bring active-duty service members to race events. It provides an all-access experience that gives them a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to compete at NASCAR’s highest level. Over the years, thousands of service members have participated, and the initiative continues to grow in scope and popularity.
Support from Team Chevy
Chevrolet, one of NASCAR’s most iconic manufacturers, played a key role in organizing and supporting this weekend’s military outreach. As part of the Team Chevy commitment to honor veterans and active military personnel, the automaker helps fund travel, accommodations, and special event access for participants.
Representatives from Chevrolet were on hand throughout the weekend to greet the service members and ensure their experience was as smooth and memorable as possible. The brand’s long-standing relationship with NASCAR and the U.S. military reflects its values of strength, commitment, and community.
“We’re proud to stand behind the men and women of the armed forces,” said Brian Sweeney, a regional Chevy executive attending the race. “Programs like Troops to the Track allow us to honor their sacrifices in a meaningful way while also introducing them to a sport that has always had deep military roots.”
Moments of Reflection and Celebration
Before Sunday’s race, the speedway held a special tribute during pre-race ceremonies. Troops from Vance Air Force Base and Fort Leavenworth stood front and center on the grid as fans and drivers saluted their service. The national anthem, accompanied by a flyover from a formation of fighter jets, sent chills through the crowd.
A few of the visiting service members also participated in honorary roles—one served as a co-Grand Marshal, delivering the command to start engines, while another waved the green flag to officially begin the race. Their presence added a powerful sense of patriotism to an already emotional day.
Airman First Class Jason Rivers, visiting from Vance AFB, described the experience as “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“I’ve watched NASCAR on TV, but being here in person, meeting the drivers, walking the pit road—it’s incredible,” said Rivers. “It means a lot to know that people appreciate what we do.”
A Longstanding Connection
NASCAR’s commitment to the military goes well beyond a single weekend. Through its NASCAR Salutes platform, the sport has consistently recognized and celebrated military service through paint schemes, tributes, and community outreach.
Drivers and teams regularly take part in visits to military bases, and many of the sport’s biggest names have personal ties to the armed forces. For example, several crew members and team employees are veterans themselves, and their skills in teamwork and precision are often honed during military service.
The patriotic themes seen throughout the Kansas Speedway event—special decals on cars, American flags displayed across haulers, and fan merchandise honoring the military—are all part of the culture NASCAR has cultivated over decades.
Looking Ahead
As the Troops to the Track program continues to expand, organizers hope to reach even more service members in future race weekends. With the backing of key sponsors like Team Chevy and the enthusiastic support of tracks like Kansas Speedway, the initiative shows no signs of slowing down.
“What we do for these troops is nothing compared to what they do for us every day,” said Warren. “But if we can give them even a few hours of joy, excitement, and appreciation, then we’ve done our job.”
For the men and women of Vance Air Force Base and Fort Leavenworth, this past weekend was more than just a trip to the racetrack—it was a heartfelt reminder that their service is not only seen but deeply valued.
