103-year-old veteran’s birthday wish to meet NASCAR driver comes true
By Alvieann Chandler
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ATLANTA, Georgia (WXIA) — Some birthday wishes do come true. One Navy veteran who celebrated turning 103 in August can attest to this fact after he had his wish granted.
Claude “Captain” Levinge was surrounded by loved ones and dignitaries at the Retreat at Canton in August to ring in his 103rd year. Some notable attendees included representatives from the White House, U.S. Navy’s Admiral James W. Kilby, Governor Brian Kemp’s office and more.
Levinge served as a fighter pilot in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. He graduated from the very first Top Gun program and mastered more than 34 aircraft. Levinge still holds the Navy record for the most single-piloted flight hours and has earned a long list of medals from the years he spent serving his country.
During his celebration in August, Levinge wished for a chance to meet a NASCAR driver. That wish came true in September after a social media post of the Levinge went viral, and eventually reached NASCAR.
On Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2024, Atlanta race winner Daniel Suarez stopped by to meet Levinge.
“Super excited to be able to meet somebody that has meant so much for this amazing country. That has given so much for our freedom,” said Suarez,” getting to meet somebody, that you know, he’s a real Top Gun.”
EchoPark Speedway GM Brandon Hutchison also met with Levinge and made him an honorary race official for the next race. The Autotrader 400 is scheduled for February 22, 2026.
When asked what he loves so much about NASCAR, Levinge said he loves the speed and the way the drivers handle the turns.
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