The Vet’s Show is always one of the best. This year it was held on a sunny 100 degree day in Loma Linda and the overhead solar panels covering the parking lot where the show is held provided welcome shade. Ironically, those eco -friendly solar panels covered only good ol’ gas-burning American muscle.
The show opened at 8:00 a.m. but cars started arriving much earlier. Registration for the Vets Show is limited by available parking space. This year the show sold out with 1,164 registered cars. The volunteers in charge of parking did an admirable job of getting everyone parked. No easy task since every available space appeared to have a car in it.
On a 100 degree day, somehow flames seemed appropriate.
This show attracts all kinds of cars: hot rods, customs, rat rods, 50’s and 60’s classics, original restored cars, Model T’s, military vehicles, etc. You name it, and you will find it at the Vet’s show. Below are a sampling of the nice cars we found, click on the photo to enlarge.
American Flags and military vehicles expressed the theme of the show.
James, below, found a companion for his ‘Mater truck.
The Posting of the Colors was held at 10:00 a.m. followed by the opening ceremonies. The Colors were posted by the All Forces Honor Guard from Riverside National Cemetery. In addition, to providing color guard services, The Honor Guard provides full military honor ceremonies for deceased veterans. It also teaches correct flag etiquette to elementary school students.
Just looking at every car could fill more than the time allotted for the car show. But there was more – 50/50 drawings, a model car contest, a silent auction, raffles every hour, a coloring contest for the kids, 2 sessions of bingo, many, many vendors and again this year a washer and dryer were raffled off. Of course, there were numerous food vendors for those looking for lunch or just a cold drink. Several other organizations which offer help to past and present military members had booths set up, such as Vet Hunters Project, Yucaipa Blue Star Mothers and SOS (Soldiers Organized Services). SOS provides free transportation to active duty military personnel, their families and their sweethearts to and from the 29 Palms Marine Base and the Palm Springs and Ontario airports.
Below are more great cars at the show, click on a photo to enlarge.
This show is put on by Volunteers for Veterans Foundation spearheaded by Larry and Betty Volk. Butch Schultz was the Chairman of the event. Among the many sponsors of the show are the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (T-Shirts), Dick Rennick (Dog Tags), and Lucas & Assoc./Midnight Impressions (Goodie Bags). The hard work of all the volunteers is evident throughout the day.
At 2:00 p.m. the live auction was held followed by the award ceremony for the trophy winners. As you can see from the photos above, those tasked with selecting the winners didn’t have an easy job. Below are a couple of the trophy winners.
All of the proceeds from this show provide assistance not only to veterans but to those transitioning to civilian life. Proceeds are also distributed to the Loma Linda Veterans Hospital. Next year the Vet’s Show will be on Sunday, October 4.
With all that is going on in the world, the theme of this show is apropos: IF YOU LOVE YOUR FREEDOM THANK A VET.
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