KHI Crew Member Spotlight:

Todd Dodson
Hauler Driver
No. 2 ACL Chevy Silverado Race Team

A Different Kind of Battle

One year ago, Todd Dodson, hauler driver for the Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI) No. 2 American Commercial Lines (ACL)/RVs.com Chevrolet, was spending his days in Iraq. Dodson was a member of the 1451st National Guard Unit.

Dodson spent from 1990-1994 serving in the Marine Corp. in the Security Forces division guarding nuclear missiles. Upon completing his duties, Dodson returned to civilian life running a trucking company in his hometown of Belews Creek, N.C.

Like most Americans, life as Dodson knew it would change on September 11, 2001. “I remember watching the coverage on CNN when 9/11 took place,” said Dodson. “I looked at my wife and said, I can’t just sit here and do nothing.” Most Americans had the same sentiment, however, Dodson did not sit idle; he took immediate action.

“I called a few of my friends from the Marine Corp and I found a National Guard unit deploying to Iraq,” said Dodson. “I wanted to go and do something. I know a lot of people do not agree with the war, and I do not even agree with some of the politics involved. But I do support all the men and women who have gone and are going to go over there and fight for what they think is right.”

Dodson served under operation Iraqi Freedom from January 2006-May 2007. His job in Iraq was to be a security scout for an infantry unit that ran fuel convoys. After completing his National Guard commitment, he decided to join Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI) in November 2007. He now battles traffic on the interstate instead of Iraqi insurgents.

“I have always loved being on the road,” said Dodson. “I sometimes miss the military, but after 10 years of service I decided that it was time for me to be home to spend time with my wife and kids. Racing means a lot to my family, I have a 10 year old little boy who races go-karts. We have a lot of fun at it.”

Dodson was thrilled when he learned that sponsor VFW would be joining KHI. “When you leave the military the government signs you up to be a member of the VFW,” said a passionate Dodson. “As a former soldier I really appreciate that organization. I am glad they decided to align themselves with this race team. I think it can help add exposure to their organization and help educate the public on the importance of their organization and let people know a little more about what the VFW does. I think I speak for everyone who works here when I say how privileged we are to have VFW as a sponsor. There are a lot of men who are apart of that organization that have done a whole lot more heroic things than I have and I’m glad that maybe through our standing as a race team we can tell some of their stories. They are the real heroes.”

Military service teaches a person many great skills. Dodson brings strong leadership and a sense of pride to the KHI No. 2 ACL/RVs.com team. “My entire life I have been a part of a team,” said Dodson. “I feel this role is no different. I enjoy being a part of KHI and I look forward to winning a few races this season.”