ARLINGTON, Va. - The Army National Guard lost a true friend and champion on October 16, 2011 when Dan Wheldon, 33, driver of the Guard's No. 4 IndyCar during the 2009 and 2010 seasons, died from injuries sustained during a tragic 15-car crash.
The accident occurred during the final race of the 2011 season at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
IndyCar drivers and fans alike admired Wheldon, a two-time Indianapolis 500 winner and the 2005 IndyCar Series champion, but his popularity among Soldiers went well beyond what he accomplished on the track.
When not racing, Wheldon visited Soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and veterans hospitals around the country. His compassion for Soldiers and the National Guard was accentuated during a 2009 visit with wounded troops when Wheldon said, "Just the strength and character these [wounded Soldiers] have. The fact one person was disappointed they couldn't stand to [greet] me. But he didn't have any legs. It's incredibly emotional."
Visiting troops and spending time with them remained important to Wheldon even after he stopped driving the Guard IndyCar following the 2010 season. Wheldon also served as a spokesperson for the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program, which supports at-risk teenagers and young adults around the country.
With Wheldon at the wheel of the Guard's IndyCar, the National Guard brand gained nationwide exposure that was amplified because of his belief in the organization and its members. More importantly, his interaction with Soldiers increased organizational pride throughout the Guard.
Weldon's support of the Guard was apparent through much more than a logo on his car or uniform, or his willingness to sign autographs for Soldiers. Wheldon was an advocate for those serving their country, those recovering from combat injuries, and even those striving to join the Guard.
Dan Wheldon's passing leaves a void in the hearts of many Soldiers, but his smile, personality, integrity, and his love for the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces will be remembered forever.
His wife Susie, his two sons, Sebastian and Oliver, his parents, Clive and Sue, his brothers and sisters, Austin, Ashley, Elliott and Holly, and his entire family remains in the thoughts and prayers of the countless members of the National Guard.
Note: J.R. Hildebrand, the National Guard's current IndyCar driver, was also injured in the crash. Hildebrand suffered a concussion and other injuries and was released Monday from University Medical Center in Las Vegas.