NASCAR world grieves loss of retired Major General Thomas Sadler USAF

On Monday came the news of the passing of retired United States Air Force Major General Thomas Sadler.

Born in 1925, Sadler served in World War II, the Korean War and in Vietnam before retiring and spending 25 years as the executive director of the Speedway Children’s Charity, which has a chapter in all eight cities where Speedway Motorsports, Inc. (SMI) owns a NASCAR track.

Condolences went out from the NASCAR world.

Statement from Claudia Byrd, executive director of the Bristol Chapter of SCC :

“Tom was a dear friend and wonderful man. He had an amazing passion for making children’s lives better and always said, when you look into the eyes of children you’ve helped, you’re looking into the face of God. Tom loved coming to races here and spending time in our community. He was a big part of our Bristol family, and we look forward to upholding his legacy of compassion and excellence in the work that we do.”

Statement from Rebecca Moffitt, Executive Director, Petty Family Foundation:

“Major General Thomas Sadler was a true hero, not only for his service to our country, but also for his service to countless children and their families he helped aid during his time at Speedway Children’s Charities. It’s that dedication, loyalty and spirit that lives on with the charity today and one that the Petty Family and Petty Family Foundation hopes to emulate through our work.”

Sad to learn of the passing of Maj. General Sadler on Monday. Always enjoyed my conversations and time spent with him. #RIP

— Regan Smith (@ReganSmith) September 8, 2015

Very sad to hear of the passing of Major General Thomas Sadler long time Exec Dir @SCC_Charlotte Retired @usairforce Prayers & Salute!

— Germain Racing (@GermainRacing) September 8, 2015

@SCCAtlanta is mourning the loss of a great man. Prayers for Maj Gen Thomas Sadler and his family on this sad day. pic.twitter.com/hxaTYOP7fe

— SCC Atlanta (@SCCAtlanta) September 7, 2015

.@gassigirl88 "There are far,far better things ahead than any we leave behind"(CS Lewis) RIP General Thomas Sadler. https://t.co/QDBK8IF6Fh

— Donald Hawk (@HawkSMI) September 7, 2015