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Writer's pictureCalvin Sawkins

Its Memorial Day - Let's Thank a Vet!

Many thanks to all the Veterans - Here is a special thanks to Ed Varela one of the Veterans members of Highlands Ranch Hot Rodders.

Ed is a Vietnam Vet. While serving he had the position of a "Combat Engineer". His company command was in Binh Thuy. Ed's main job was to to build roads in Vietnam during the war. Building roads and revetments/blast walls full of sand to protect the military aircrafts during the day while being attacked nightly. I asked him how long he was in Vietnam and he said "365 Days" an answer like this means you start counting down from the first day you arrive. Recently he was recognized for his service by The Rocky Mountain Honor Flight a Denver based non-profit organization who flies veteran's to Washing DC to visit the monuments and memorials. He said it was all expense paid and really appreciated the trip. During his trip he visited 5 different memorials one of the being the Vietnam Memorial that contains some of his friends name on it. On his return trip from DC there was a surprise mail run on the flight. He received many letters from family members, close friends and other people that just appreciate what the veterans have done for the country.


Let talk about Ed and his car. I think he has a pretty cool car, Above is a picture of Ed standing next to his 40 Chevy "Master Deluxe Street Rod". His Hot Rod is powered by a 400 Cubic Inch Small Block Chevy, Equipped with Headers, High Energy Ignition (HEI), and an Edelbrock 4 barrel carburetor. The power plant is running into a 400R transmission, with an 8inch Chevy Rear-end driving the back wheels. The car has Air bag suspension controlled by a Ride Pro Controller. Haleline Gauges to tell him how things are going and many aftermarket options, including: Vintage A/C, DVD Player with Alpine Stereo and even a backup camera. Ed owned one of these cars back in the day and he said he always wanted another one. I have been to many events and usually see Ed there with 40 Chevy and his lady friend Norita.


Today is Memorial Day, the day to observe and honor the the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Please go out an let a veteran know how much you appreciate them.


One of the biggest reasons that I belong to the Highlands Ranch Hot Rodders is for all the charitable work that they do for the veterans. Being a member of this club you do not have to go very far to find a veteran and thank him or her for their service.


Its Memorial day take your Hot Rod for a run and enjoy your freedom!

Drive Safely

Calvin





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