An Alabama firefighter received a big honor Wednesday when it was announced that next week's Brickyard 400 NASCAR race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway will carry his name.
Troy Lt. Curtiss Shaver was the winner of the nationwide Crown Royal "Your Hero's Name Here" contest and instead of the race holding its usual name, it will be known as the "Curtiss Shaver 400 at the Brickyard" this year.
The announcement was made outside Troy Fire Station No. 1 and Shaver placed the final brick in a ceremonial "Yard of Bricks" created for the event.
Shaver was selected among a total of five finalists after being nominated by a fellow firefighter for his commitment and dedication to his community.
"I'm a huge NASCAR fan, so having my name as a race title is absolutely unbelievable," he said in a statement. "I'm honored that I was nominated for this incredible contest and humbled that so many people voted for my story. I'm looking forward to representing emergency personnel everywhere who risk their lives for others on a daily basis."
The 37-year-old firefighter/paramedic lost his left leg below the knee after he was involved in a farming accident when he was 18.
He says he was inspired after being aided by Good Samaritans during the accident and after undergoing extensive rehab, was hired by the same department that responded to the mishap.
As the contest's winner, Shaver will be flown to the race on July 29, wave the green flag, and even deliver the trophy bearing his name to the winner in victory lane.
