Twelve Sailors assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 40 participated in the NASCAR Troops to the Track program during the NASCAR Xfinity race at Daytona International Speedway, Feb. 15.

HSM 40, located on board Naval Station Mayport, is one of two MH-60R Fleet Replacement Squadrons and responsible for providing training to Fleet Replacement pilots and aircrew. HSM-40 trains students to fly and maintain rotary wing MH-60R Seahawk.

Command Master Chief (CMC) Joshua Davis, who helped to coordinate participation in this event, discussed the synergy between the mechanics who maintain the racing vehicles to that of mechanics who work in Naval Aviation.

“We are appreciative of this opportunity to meet and see firsthand the professional mechanics who are working in such a fast-pace environment,” said Davis.  

Currently in its 11th year, NASCAR Troops to the Track is a season-long initiative that honors and pays tribute to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces by inviting service members from local military installations to a NASCAR race.