When Dale Jr. announced that he would be driving the National Guard car, the Board of the PBC sprang into action.  Their first thought was …”What can we do to show our support?”  Through the efforts of a subcommittee of the PBC Board and LT Delli-Pizzi of the 1/69th Infantry Regiment of New York National Guard, a project called “PIT NASCAR” was born.

 

History

National Guard (www.ngb.army.mil)—The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States and one of the nation’s largest-enduring institutions.  It celebrated its 370th birthday on December 13, 2006.  The National Guard has seen the nature of its mission change over the years with more frequent call-ups in response to crises.  Following the attacks of September 11, 2001, Guardmembers were called up by both State and Federal Governments to provide security at home and combat terrorism abroad.  The Guard deployed troops in support of the Gulf States following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.  Today, tens of thousands of Guardmembers are serving in harm’s way in Iraq and Afghanistan.

 

69th Infantry Regiment—The 69th Infantry Regiment is part of the New York Army National Guard.  Also known as the Fighting 69th, its history dates to 1851, when it was created as the 69th New York Militia.  The regiment has served in combat in four wars and 19 campaigns, including the American Civil War, WWI, WWII, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 

Background of PIT NASCAR

 

The PBC worked with LT Delli-Pizzi, Platoon Leader and Deployment Coordinator for the 1/69th Infantry, and his wife Beth, the Family Readiness Group Coordinator – Long Island, to get this project up and running.  The PBC was given the names of two soldiers who we will be supporting during their deployment to Afghanistan—CPL D’Agostino and PFC Paweska.  Both are racing enthusiasts, so it’s a great fit.

 

One of our Board members, Tricia, was honored to represent the PBC at the Deployment Ceremony held on January 16th.  She shared her afternoon and some photos of the ceremony.

 

When I arrived at Suffolk County Community College athletic building, it was surrounded by flags.  There were media of all kinds—TV, radio, and print—ABC, NBC, Cable, CNN, etc.

 

I went into the building and was escorted to meet LT Delli-Pizzi.  He was so gracious.  He thanked me and the PBC for taking on this project and for supporting his men.

 

The stage was adorned with a red, white, and blue balloon arch.  While everyone was pouring in, the USO Singers performed many famous military songs.  The ceremony began at exactly 12:00 with LT Delli-Pizzi as the host.

 

The Welcome and Introduction of Official Party was followed by the Soldier’s Formation.  The Fire Department paid Honors to the Nation by displaying the Colors, and the Central Islip High School performed the National Anthem.  A video presentation on “The Citizen Soldier” followed.

 

After the Invocation, the soldiers received their Deployment Orders from LT Delli-Pizzi.  A brief history followed on the Fighting 69th.  Then opening remarks and guest speakers followed, including Beth Delli-Pizzi who gave an eloquent talk.

 

LT Delli-Pizzi thanked several organizations that have taken time and resources to show their support for the Fighting 69th:  American Legion, Girl Scouts, Police Veterans, VFW, and The Pit Board Charity.  I felt so honored that he mentioned us.  The next video presentation showed a holiday party thrown by the county for the soldiers and their families.  The USO performed again and even danced with some of the soldiers.  Another video presentation was shown—this time it was a photo of each soldier deploying and some of their training.  This was followed by the Pipe Band performance by The Sword of Light.  There is nothing that touches the soul more than the sound of bagpipes, especially when they are leading the American Flag down an aisle surrounded by the men and women who are defending this country.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Keynote Speaker was Major General (R) Anthony Kropp.  There was a video presentation from Congressman Steve Israel, followed by closing remarks and a final blessing.

 

Two huge cakes were brought out.  The oldest soldier and the youngest soldier cut them as a sign of unity.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The colors were retired.  The soldiers were led out in procession guided by the Pipe Band.

 

I can’t convey properly how moved I was by the ceremony.  It was very patriotic and uplifting.  On the other hand, my heart broke for the families that will be separated during this time.  There was nothing but love and admiration in that hall for all of those brave men and women who answered the call to serve.  It really humbles one as an individual when you are in the presence of TRUE HEROES.

 

PIT NASCAR Project Outline

 

When the Fighting 69th arrives in Afghanistan, we will send weekly letters and monthly packages to “our” soldiers throughout their year-long deployment.  CPL D’Agostino will let us know what they can use the most; we’ll work to meet those needs and add a few surprises (and racing news, of course) as well.  Once cleared through proper channels (to preclude any operational security issues), we’ll post updates on “our” soldiers on the PBC website.

 

If you’re interested in learning more about this project, please contact us at dalejrpbcharity@aol.com.

 

 

Updates

 

February 2008—The Fighting 69th is in intensive training before heading out of country, so we decided to help “our” soldiers celebrate the start of the racing season.  We sent packages including snacks, goodies, and racing magazines for their enjoyment during the Daytona 500.  CPL D’Agostino wrote to thank us for the items and for our continued support.