LEVEL CROSS, N.C. (August 25, 2014) – Praised for his patriotism and his service to the community, NASCAR Hall of Famer “The King” Richard Petty was presented The American Legion’s James V. Day “Good Guy” Award during the organization’s 96th annual national convention today.
“Richard Petty is so much more than just a former race driver and now current team owner,” American Legion National Commander Daniel M. Dellinger said during an award luncheon held in Petty’s honor at theWestin Charlotte by The American Legion Past Department (state) Commander’s Club. “He is a great American, who is always giving back to the community. By donating his land, and more importantly, his time, to Victory Junction, Richard has helped chronically ill children receive life-changing camping experiences. He and his son Kyle have helped educate young people about the safe use of automobile lifts, and he has donated time to Civitan International. Richard Petty Motorsports has also supported paralyzed veterans. The NASCAR culture is often praised for its patriotism. Well, it’s no coincidence that Richard Petty is The King of NASCAR.”
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the American Legion,”Petty said. “I’ve also felt it was important to do my best to give back to the community and to those in need. It’s just something small we do to help out and hopefully make people’s lives better or make them feel good. It’s humbling to be rewarded for it.”
The James V. Day Good Guy Award is named after a World War II veteran and prominent Legionnaire. Recent recipients include former boxing great George Foreman, performer Dolly Parton, MLB Commissioner Bud Selig and former NBA star David Robinson.
About The Petty Family Foundation
The Petty Family Foundation has a strong belief in family values, integrity, and compassion for others. It is these ideals upon which we built our foundation, providing the tools necessary to empower those who help others. By focusing our mission on healthcare and enriching the lives of our country’s servicemen, we will continue a legacy of success and a vision of humanity.
