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The Virginia National Guard and Willis Elementary School Celebrated Their Stay on Track Graduation
At Motor Mile Speedway!
On May 2, 2009, Stay on Track graduates from Willis Elementary School were honored at Motor Mile Speedway in Radford, VA. It was a spectacular event with over 40 students in attendance, along with parent chaperones, the school principal, and VA National Guard instructors. Motor Mile Speedway rolled out the red carpet for the children, posting a huge sign at the entrance to welcome the students and announce the special honor of their presence at the track.
NCPRS and the VA Guard worked together to host what will be an annual event at Motor Mile Speedway. Four FMTV military vehicles adorned with ten-foot banners carried the students onto the track for a spotlight parade lap. The crowd cheered for the students as they waved in excitement to flashing cameras.
The truck lined up in front of the crowd and the students followed the Guardsmen to center stage where the Color Guard was presented. The students then sung the National Anthem and were given a standing ovation by the race fans. At that time, MAJ Rickey Thomas spoke about why the students were there and what they had to accomplish to be honored in this way. School Principal Sandra Montgomery addressed the crowd as well, enthusing “Stay on Track is one of the best programs to have been brought to this area.”
Motor Mile Speedway representative Dede Stone was presented an award signed by all of the students, as well as the parents, instructors, National Guardsmen, and NCPRS, which she humbly accepted as the students retreated to their front row seats.
That is not all! One of the students was then chosen to stand with the announcer and say those famous words, “Gentlemen, start your engines!” At the start of each race, students were handpicked to drop the green flag. The winner was given the trophy on the finish line by the students from Willis, while photographers captured it all.
This event was an outstanding display of coordination and planning, as well as unexpected honors for the students who were able to play such an integral part in the night’s events. It is safe to say that this was a night that will not be forgotten by all who participated. With rain two days before and for three days after, for those few hours they weathered nothing but shining moments to treasure for a lifetime.
For more information on how you can become involved within your community to host such events, please contact:
NCPRS Program Managers
Gail Sneed and Sharon Clarke
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