Brighton Man Receives NASCAR Hood From Operation Homefront

On Friday morning, retired U.S. Army Sergeant Dennis Latowski of Brighton was surprised with a one-of-a-kind gift, just in time for Christmas.

Once again, the Brighton man received an unexpected pit stop from representatives of Operation Homefront who delivered the hood of the No. 43 Ford that featured Latowski's name.

Last August, No. 43 Eckrich Ford driver Aric Almirola and his pit crew had surprised the Brighton family giving the family's car an expert tune-up, conducted outside Michigan International Speedway and unveiled the car with Latowski's name which was driven in the race. 

Part of Operation Homefront, a national non-profit organization that provides emergency financial assistance to the families of United States service members and wounded warriors, the Latowski's family also received a gift package that included Eckrich products and VIP passes to the race.

Months later, the hood of the car was presented to the family as another surprise gift on behalf of team partner Eckrich to thank the family for the sacrifices they have made for their country.

"We've really enjoyed giving these families an experience to remember," said Charles Gitkin, vice president, marketing, innovation and R&D for the John Morrell Food Group said in a previous report. "When it comes to military families, a lot of focus is often on the send-offs and the homecomings, but there's a lot of time in between when they often need a little extra support.  We're happy to work with Operation Homefront to help provide that."