U.S. Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient David Balestrino Jr. has been named honorary starter for the Pure Michigan 400 being held this Sunday, August 18, at Michigan International Speedway. Balestrino was the winner of a fan contest on the Pure Michigan Facebook page, receiving the highest number of votes for his entry on why he wanted to wave the green flag on race day. Balestrino, of Youngstown, Ohio, served as a Combat Engineer in the U.S. Army from 2003-2009 and received a Purple Heart during his service in Iraq. In his entry, Balestrino said he would like to drop the green flag in honor of his six year old son. ‘While serving in Iraq I missed the entire first year of Bradys life’ Balestrino said. ‘That was the most difficult thing I ever had to go through. I still cant believe that I was picked for this awesome honor and I hope that I can make everyone who has served or is still serving proud.” As honorary starter, Balestrino will also have the opportunity to receive a pace car ride from NASCARs official pace car driver and attend the NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers meeting. ‘We received many great entries from fans excited about race day at the Pure Michigan 400, but Davids submission really brought together a passion for racing and a terrific story that speaks to the spirit of Pure Michigan’ said George Zimmermann, Vice President of Travel Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Pure Michigan is a brand on the rise, representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the states marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigans economy.( MIS )
