Freedom car unveils new paint scheme
A new paint scheme on American Legion?David Law Firm 76 Freedom Car was unveiled Friday at Chicagoland Speedway. Photo by James V. Carroll

Freedom car unveils new paint scheme

Driver Jerick Johnson and The American Legion/David Law Firm 76 Freedom Car team unveiled a new paint scheme Friday in the Ansell Protective Gloves 150 at Chicagoland Speedway near Joliet, Ill.

The familiar super speedway red car with bright white stars, and the white car used on mid-sized tracks, were replaced with a striking black paint scheme dedicated to The American Legion Riders. A POW/MIA flag is displayed prominently on the leading edge of the hood, the deck and c-posts.

"We're not sure if we keep the black paint scheme," Johnson said prior to the 7 p.m. ARCA Racing Series Presented by RE/MAX and Menards 100-lap, 150-mile race. "I suspect if we come out of here with a win, we'll seriously be considering a black car in our future."

Johnson's practice laps on Thursday were 31st fastest of 36 cars taking practice. A few adjustments to the racecar improved speed during Friday's practice - up nine positions to 22nd. Changes made to the car prior to qualification loosened handling, forcing Johnson to accept a 24th place in the starting grid. He gained five spots during the race to finish 19th.

The unveiling of the black 76 Freedom Car comes at the heels of a 1,400-mile Legacy Run by Legion Riders through five states; from Indianapolis to The American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee. At times during the run, more than 200 motorcycles passed through small towns and stopped at Legion posts along the route to raise money for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund. Money raised for the fund provides college scholarships to children whose parents have died on active duty since 9/11.

The Kansas Lottery 150 on Sept. 30 at Kansas Speedway is the next scheduled race for Johnson. The green flag start is at 1 p.m. EST and will be televised live on SPEED.