from Hollywood Dayton Raceway

Dayton, OH — The family of World War II veteran Leonard Shaffner surprised the lifelong horse racing fan with a 97th birthday party at Hollywood Dayton Raceway on Saturday night (Oct. 21).

Conrad photo

World War II veteran Leonard Shaffner celebrates his 97th birthday with a starter car ride at Hollywood Dayton Raceway.

Starter Mike Woebkenberg invited Mr. Shaffner to ride with him in the mobile gate during the seventh race and then the Dayton drivers colony further surprised the spry war veteran with a spontaneous patriotic greeting near the winner’s circle after his ride.