May 19

May 19 The Lee Greenwood Patriot Awards Dinner at Childress Vineyards

Richard Childress and Paula Deen (center) attend Wednesday night’s Lee Greenwood Patriots Awards Dinner at Childress Vineyards.{Contributed photo}

“Carrying the Coca-Cola paint scheme honoring America’s heroes on Memorial Day weekend is really special to me,” said Austin Dillon said in a statement. “Because of what they do and the sacrifices they make, we get to do what we love, which is race. They are the ultimate hero.” {Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local} — “Carrying the Coca-Cola paint scheme honoring America’s heroes on Memorial Day weekend is really special to me,” said Austin Dillon said in a statement. “Because of what they do and the sacrifices they make, we get to do what we love, which is race. They are the ultimate hero.”
{Antionette Kerr/Davidson Local}

On Wednesday, May 19, 2021, Helping a Hero held the Lee Greenwood Patriot Awards Dinner at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, NC. The fundraiser celebrated patriotism and honored wounded warriors. It was hosted by Lee Greenwood and co-chairs Richard Childress and Art Fisher.

Events included the unveiling of Austin Dillon’s 600 car and an awards ceremony. Recipients included the Honorable Dan Forest, Bass Pro Shops CEO Johnny Morris, Fox News host Ainsley Earhardt, recording artist Michael W. Smith, Paula Deen, and Penny and Bob Barnhill. This year, Helping a Hero will recognize 40 patriots with the award in honor of the 40th anniversary of Lee Greenwood's song, "God Bless the U.S.A."