The U.S. Department of Defense and NASCAR are set to pay tribute to fallen heroes on Memorial Day weekend during the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina. The event will mark the conclusion of a monthlong campaign showcasing NASCAR’s military partnership through various engagements and patriotic performances.
Starting May 24, the three-day event will feature interactive displays from multiple military services at the Speed Street Fan Zone. Local students will have the opportunity to attend the STEAM Expo on Friday, where they can engage in racing-themed activities and explore technologies such as robotics, engineering, and aerodynamics.
During Sunday’s pre-race ceremonies, active-duty service members from all branches of the military will participate. The event will include performances by the Army’s All-American Chorus, a joint services color guard, and a joint enlistment ceremony. Attendees can also look forward to a howitzer demonstration, a helicopter display by the Army’s 101st Airborne Division, and a performance by the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon.
Following a driver introduction ceremony that pairs service members with NASCAR drivers, the national anthem will be performed by Army Field Band vocalist Staff Sgt. Aaron McAleavey. The pre-race activities will conclude with a flyover by a C-17 Globemaster III from the North Carolina Air National Guard’s 145th Airlift Wing.
One of the unique features of the Coca-Cola 600 is a mid-race break for a special moment of remembrance. During this time, competitors will bring their cars off the track, turn off their engines, and observe a moment of silence to honor those who have sacrificed their lives in service of the nation.
Greg Walter, executive vice president of Charlotte Motor Speedway, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “Being the eve of Memorial Day, we want to ensure that the messaging and the experience are meaningful. Freedom is not free, and everything we do leading up to and during the race reflects that sentiment.”
