A Racing Homecoming at Coronado
When the engines roar at the historic track near Naval Base Coronado, the sound carries more than speed — it carries a salute to those who have served. This weekend, two veteran NASCAR personalities, Al Niece and Jeff Swearengin, will return to the base where they once wore different uniforms, bringing with them a deep sense of gratitude toward the Navy and the nation.
Al Niece, a Vietnam War veteran and the founder of the Craftsman Trucks team, first set foot on Coronado decades ago before launching a racing career that would later intertwine with the sport’s national series. His presence at the upcoming event is not just a personal homecoming; it is a reminder of the enduring bond between the military community and the world of motorsports.
Joining Niece is Jeff Swearengin, an interior mechanic and tire specialist for Ty Gibbs’ No. 54 Toyota. Swearengin served at Coronado a dozen years ago, and his current role places him at the heart of the car’s performance, handling everything from cockpit ergonomics to the removal of plastic coating from the windshield during pit stops. His work includes compiling tire‑wear data during practice and the race, a skill set honed both on the battlefield and on the track.
Swearengin’s excitement about the weekend extends beyond his professional duties. He expressed pride in returning to Naval Base Coronado for what he described as a historic NASCAR event, emphasizing the opportunity to meet active-duty service members and to thank them for their continued dedication. For both Niece and Swearengin, the weekend represents a chance to give back to the institution that shaped part of their lives.
The event has already captured the public’s imagination, with all available general admission tickets for the three‑day schedule selling out quickly. Organizers noted that during the track’s construction, more than 150 manhole covers and sewer caps were welded into place, a project largely carried out by Navy Seabees as a training exercise — a testament to the collaborative spirit between the military and the racing community.
Beyond the thrills of competition, the weekend serves as a platform for NASCAR to publicly acknowledge the sacrifices of service members. By spotlighting veterans who have left an indelible mark on the sport, the series hopes to foster a deeper appreciation for the nation’s military heritage among fans and participants alike.