Reservist helps son's dream come true

The Salter family has been associated with Scott AFB for a long time. Bob came to Scott as an active duty staff sergeant in 1969. Currently, he is a senior master sergeant and Air Reserve Technician with the 932nd Maintenance Squadron (MXS). His wife, Deb, has been employed for the last 16 years at the Contractor Operated & Maintained Base Supply (COMBS) for the C-9 aircraft. Eight years ago, they also embarked on another career. Along with their son and driver, Rick, they are owners of a stock car racing team, aptly named Salty Dog Racing. The team spent three years in the Sportsman division before moving up to a Super Late Model, the premier dirt track division in the country. Sergeant Salter explained: “It didn’t take long to see that Rick definitely has what it takes. The team has been improving steadily year by year. We are a family owned and operated team. Our budget is extremely low compared to most teams we race. “But, we have reached a point now where Rick is seen as a potentially top contender at any track where we go. "What Rick does on the track is a constant source of amazement for Deb and me. He’s an aggressive, cool-headed driver, and his mother and I couldn’t be prouder of him,” said the sergeant. The 2007 season has been the best year yet for Salty Dog Racing. On Sept. 29, Rick clinched the Super Late Model Season Championship at Highland Speedway. He also finished the season with a strong 5th place in points at Tri- City Speedway. Rick pointed out, “I couldn’t have come this far without the support of my parents and crew. Dad is my crew chief and his years of leadership experience and his mechanical expertise are essential to our success. Mom is our bookkeeper and team cook. “One or both of them are at the track every time I race. Because of their continuing love and support, I am living my dream,” Rick added.