It seems that owning an older, classic Camaro is much more common than owning a new one. Why? Because when you were younger you were able to purchase one of those hot ‘68 or ’70’s Camaro and cruise in it everywhere showing off to the girls you liked and the boys who wanted to be you. As the years go by the Camaro(and its owner) get older and start to look older. Than it is set upon the owner to restore it.
Craig has been in the Navy for 20 years with four years active duty and the last 16 years with the Reserves. He has been on three tours with his most recent to the United Arab Emirates. Just before leaving on his last tour, Craig began trying to get his Camaro to run with the help of his brother-in-law Bill Douglas, Jr. After working on the car for 30 days straight, they finally were able to start it up.
Craig was able to drive the car for two days before being shipped out. While the car was finally running, there was still plenty of work to be done. Douglas got together with his father, Bill Douglas, Sr., his uncle, Norm Romack and his cousin Jay Romack and decided to finish the car for Douglas before he returned. Craig’s wife Lori got in on the project and helped keep it a secret. “It was fun to keep it a secret,” said Lori. “He’s the one who plays jokes on everyone.”
The Class Pack out of Neoga got into the project although most of the members didn’t even know Craig. They were just happy to be able to help out a serviceman. On Saturday, Craig thought he was picking up his car from a friend’s house. On the way, Douglas brought Craig and his family to a car show that he happened to ‘notice’.
As Craig was looking at the cars, including the 1969 Camaro, an announcer began speaking about military men and veterans and thanking them for their service. He asked if any servicemen were at the show. Craig raised his hand. The announcer then started talking about the Camaro. Craig said he had a similar car, but it wasn’t in as good of condition. When the announcer responded, “Are you sure?” Craig began to realize the car was his.
The vehicle started out red with a black stripe and was painted jet black, Craig’s favorite color. But there is still more work to be done. The car currently has no radio and there are several other small projects Craig can work on with his son Roman. He said Roman will someday get to drive the vehicle. Special plates were airbrushed for the car, dubbing it the U.S.S. Ground up.
Unfortunately Craig only had one day to enjoy his new ride. He was shipped back out the next day for a tour that would last two to three months till he is released.
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