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Air Force flies into world of drag racing

  • Published
  • By By Tech. Sgt. John Redding
  • 344th Recruiting Squadron
ENNIS, Texas --  The Air Force made its first foray into the fast-paced world of drag racing at the O'Reilly Super Start Batteries Fall Nationals Sept. 19-21 at the Texas Motorplex here. 

The event was the first of a four-race test program between Air Force Recruiting Service and Kenny Bernstein Racing Inc., designed to test the viability of the Air Force marketing itself at National Hot Rod Association events. 

"This event was a great opportunity for the Air Force to venture into a new market - drag racing - one that has many applications to the Air Force's mission to fly, fight and win," said Lt. Col. Sean McKenna, commander of the 344th Recruiting Squadron, the unit responsible for interacting with the race team over the weekend. "We think many fans of NHRA would very much be interested in the opportunities presented by the U.S. Air Force." 

In addition to having sponsorship on the race car, the Air Force invited 30 local high school teachers and potential applicants who were able to get up close and personal with six-time NHRA champion Kenny Bernstein, his primary driver Tommy Johnson Jr. and his crew members. The Air Force's guests received a tour of the pit area, saw the car being rebuilt in the 75-minute window between races, and got a chance to visit extensively with crew members. 

"Air Force members are trained with the best technology available and our Funny Car team is steeped in technology, so there are a lot of obvious similarities and crossovers for our sport and potential Air Force recruits," said Mr. Bernstein, who spent both race days talking with the Air Force influencers and prospects. 

"This was a wonderful opportunity," said Michelle Ufkes, assistant principal at Burleson. "It put a real world prospective on what the Air Force and civilian jobs have in common." 

Mr. Johnson, the driver of the Monster/U.S. Air Force funny car, had two fast runs on Saturday but ultimately failed to make the field for Sunday's finals events.