To the editor:

I would like to thank Casey, Deb, Matt and Abigail Johnson for all they do to keep the Fort Dodge Ford Toyota — Ja-Mar Cruise night going and growing.

It is clear that the Johnson family goes above and beyond in preparing for and hosting the Cruise Night, from clearing the lot to make room for all of the vehicles, to arranging for food and vendor trucks to serve the attendees, and I’m sure many other details the public is unaware of.

It is truly a first class event and brings people to Fort Dodge from all over the state.

Starting with the most recent Cruise Night on July 2, the event has started honoring a veteran for their military service in support of our great nation. The honoree is referred to as the Hero of the Cruise.

As the inaugural Hero of the Cruise, I would like to personally thank Casey and his family for the work and effort that went into honoring me for my military service. It was clear that Casey had done his research, especially when he mentioned a car that I had owned over 50 years ago that had slipped to the back of my mind.

Even though there are definitely more deserving veterans who could have been honored as Hero of the Cruise, I feel honored to have been in this role for the July Cruise and look forward to the next Cruise as you again honor a veteran.

Again, thank you for all you do for this community.

Col. (Ret.) Rich Lennon

US Army

Fort Dodge