TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Around 100 cars were at the sixth annual Car and Truck Show held at Gage Park on Sept. 14.
The car show acted as a fundraiser for a new monument at the park’s memorial.
The new monument will focus on the Global War on Terrorism.
Gage Park Memorial already has monuments for World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
“It’s nice to see the younger kids out because not only are they getting to see the vintage cars, the new up-to-date cars, but they always also can have a little trip around the memorial to see what has gone on in the past as well as currently now,” said Car Show volunteer Darlene Lillo. “So, we don’t want to forget our veterans.”
While some of the car owners are veterans themselves, others are related to a veteran.
George Knoll, a Car Show participant, said his dad fought and was killed in WWII. Being at the car show is one of many ways he honors his father.
“All these guys have given their lives and sacrificed their lives for our freedom and country, and that’s very- it’s a special event,” Knoll said. “It means a lot to me and it means a lot to all these guys out here so that’s why we come together.”
Many of the veterans shared that they didn’t come to this car show for the prizes or awards. Instead, it’s about connecting with each other and the participants, especially younger generations.
They also enjoying knowing it’s a small way to bring the memorial to life.
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