MITCHELL—American Legion Post 250 in Mitchell held its annual Veterans Appreciation Car Show on Saturday, August 18, and it was a great success. Dozens of participants with cars, motorcycles, and trucks came out to support the cause and show off their prized rides.
“It’s our annual fundraiser to buy Christmas presents for every veteran in the nine nursing homes in Lawrence County,” said Gary Gerkin, a member of the American Legion. “We buy them PJ pants, Henley shirts, underwear, socks, house shoes, lap blankets, and personal hygiene items and personally deliver them to the veterans. We have been doing it for about 15 years, and it’s been well received. We love doing it.”
Awards were presented across various categories, celebrating the impressive array of cars, motorcycles, and trucks on display. From Best Classic Car to Best Custom Motorcycle and Best Modified Truck, each winner was recognized for their outstanding craftsmanship and creativity. The wide range of categories ensured every vehicle type was honored. This broad range of awards added an exciting competitive edge to the event, with participants and spectators enjoying the recognition of top-tier vehicles across all categories.
Category Overall Winners
- Car: Rod Roester- Pontian Trans Am
- Truck: Lee Blansett- Chevy 3200
- People’s Choice: Don Jones- Police Bike
Motorcycles
- Stock: Crystal Walker- 2009 Harley Davidson Soft Tail
- Custom: Paul Tincher- 2013 Harley Davidson Street Glide
4 x 4
- 1950-1959: Johnnie Powell- Willys Jeep
Cars
- 1900-1929: Mike Ratkovich- Ford T-Bucket
- 1930-1939: Larry Harris- Custom Ford Coupe
- 1940-1949: Larry Brown- Ford Convertible
- 1950-1959: Dan Baldwin- Ford Ranch Wagon
- 1960-1969: Micheal Buchanan- Ford Shelby Cobra
- 1970-1979: Tim and Nonie- AMC AMX
- 1980-1989: Josiah Morgan- Pontiac Trans Am
- 2000-2024: Danel Johnson- Chevrolet Corvette
Trucks
- 1950-1959: Wyatt Brown- Ford F1
- 1980-1989: James Beasley- AM General M35A2
- 2000-2024: Audrey Lagenour- Dodge Dakota
The event drew cars and trucks ranging from military trucks to modern supercars and raised thousands for veterans.
Everyone enjoyed a fantastic day, with Sean Duncan from 105.5 WQRK keeping the music and good vibes flowing throughout the event.
