All right, race fans, how cool would it be to have a major NASCAR event named for you? If U.S. Navy officer Rick Hudson of Gulfport gets his wish (and enough Internet votes,) the die-hard NASCAR fan will be attending the “Rick Hudson 400” this May at Richmond International Raceway in Virginia.
Hudson is one of five national finalists in a contest to honor a military hero with naming rights to a NASCAR Sprint Cup Race, sponsored by Crown Royal. Active duty Navy for 29 years, with 12 of those years at sea, Hudson was awarded one of the highest military honors, the Meritorious Service Medal, for his efforts following Hurricane Katrina while stationed in Gulfport. He is currently attached to a Special Forces unit, Special Boat Team 22, at Stennis.
Hudson, a Chief Warrant Officer 4, said he was speechless when he found out he was chosen from among more than 10,000 nominees. Each finalist was selected for their ability to demonstrate the core values of the military in performing selfless acts to become heroes, according to the contest's website.


