Stewart-Haas Racing News and Video » Ryan Newman » Florida War Hero to be Guest of Newman, No. 39 Army Team at Daytona 500
Florida War Hero to be Guest of Newman, No. 39 Army Team at Daytona 500
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Sgt. 1st Class Samuel Potter, a decorated war hero, will be a guest of Ryan Newman and the No. 39 U.S. Army/Stewart-Haas Racing team for Sunday’s running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.
Potter,a native of Tallahassee, who now resides in Daytona and works as an Army recruiter in Orlando, was awarded the Purple Heart when his truck came into contact with an improvised explosive device in Iraq on Aug. 7, 2004. He suffered shrapnel injuries to his neck, face and upper arm in the explosion.
Additionally, Potter was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service by playing an instrumental role in establishing guidelines to increase security for his company’s convoys in Iraq, as he proposed new rules for gun crews and convoy commanders.
His changes in weapon systems and tactics became standard training for crews to provide maximum protection for convoy personnel.
During his tour in Iraq, Potter was responsible for more than 50 missions as a convoy commander and 80 missions as a lead gunner, logging more than 20,000 miles in the face of explosives and small arms fire on a daily basis.
Along with being in the pits watching the 500 on Sunday, Potter will join Newman and other guest speakers at the Army Educational Program, Friday morning (10:15 – 11 a.m.) at the Speedway.
Filed under: Ryan Newman · Tags: Daytona 500, Samuel Potter, U.S. Army, war hero
SFC Potter: I am proud of you! All you soldiers were and still are in my prayers. All three of my boys are in the Army. Spec. Kenneth R. Byram, Jr. was in Iraq and now is at Ft. Benning, GA. He used to do the showcar for Kingsford racing before he got married and joined.(Kenny wants back in nascar)Pvt2 Phillip J. Byram is in the Reserves(for now) and Steven D. Byram is in the Guard and has just returned from a “secret mission” in Bosnia. We come from a long line of military (1500′s). I know the sacrifices you have gone through(sort of)I know the anxieties of the families. I thank you for not quitting. God is with you ! GO ARMY!!!!!!
Hey Smoke. Great Job. I knew you could do it. I am praying for you Sunday. You CAN get this one, too. Stay focused, be patient.
This is your year.
Happy Valentine’s Day. Remember who loves ya!!!