“Honorary Starter” and “Grand Marshal” Up for Auction for VFW 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race

Michigan International Speedway and the VFW Foundation have announced that the “Honorary Starter” and “Grand Marshal” positions for its August 20, 2011, VFW 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race will be up for auction.

Along with the official VFW 200 Honorary Starter and Grand Marshal designations, the highest bidders will each receive two (2) passes to the VFW Pit Road Suite, recognition during the drivers’ meeting and driver introductions and a photo with the VFW 200 race winner in Gatorade Victory Lane.

Fans can place bids now through July 31 by visiting http://foundation.nascar.com/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=204.

Proceeds will go to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, to benefit its “Return the Favor” campaign which is designed to honor military personnel and their families who have often personally sacrificed so much for us all.

In conjunction with the VFW 200 race, the VFW Foundation will distribute 300 tickets to local military guests to enjoy the NASCAR race weekend at MIS.

“Unfortunately, U.S. troops rarely have the luxury to attend sporting events or entertainment activities, so that’s where we step in. It’s our way of ‘saying thanks’ for all they do,” said John G. Lowe, VFW Foundation Director.

“Our Return the Favor events not only boost troop morale but also draw attention to the urgent needs of U.S. military service personnel. It also allows us to get the word out about our other programs and services. These include free communication options for troops overseas so they can call home on a regular basis and financial assistance to their families for rent, mortgage, utilities, vehicle repair, food and medicine,” stated Mr. Lowe.

To learn more, please visit: www.ReturnTheFavor.org or you can donate via your cell phone by texting “RETURN” to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

MIS PR