RISMEDIA, March 9, 2007-The Hummer that was once home to a CNN news crew, embedded with the U.S. Marines during the invasion of Iraq, has a new mission. The completely overhauled Hummer that the news crew named Warrior One, has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind, military tribute vehicle touring the nation to raise money for wounded veterans.
The RE/MAX Tour for the Troops began in Atlanta, Georgia on March 3 at the annual RE/MAX International convention.
"CNN Warrior One is sure to be a popular hit at auto shows, air shows and veterans events. We hope that over a million people will see this unique vehicle in 2007 and they'll be inspired to help our wounded soldiers," said Mike Reagan, senior vice president of brand marketing with RE/MAX International.
Funds raised on the RE/MAX Tour for the Troops will be donated to The Sentinels of Freedom Foundation, to provide "scholarships" to severely wounded veterans. Scholarship recipients receive housing, transportation, employment and training for a four year transition period, helping them readjust to civilian life.
In January, CNN placed Warrior One on the Barrett-Jackson auction block, with all proceeds donated to The Fisher House Foundation, which provides housing to military personnel and their families during extended medical treatments.
RE/MAX Co-Founder and Chairman Dave Liniger had the winning bid of one million dollars, while a live audience of thousands cheered him on.
Liniger said, "It's all for a fabulous cause, and we can use this impressive vehicle to do great things for so many wounded veterans."
CNN Warrior One has a colorful history carrying a news crew from Kuwait to Baghdad through the deserts of Iraq, suffering more than the normal wear and tear. However, the Hummer was completely rebuilt while TV viewers watched the entire process on The Learning Channel's popular program, Overhaulin'.
Under the direction of master designer, Chip Foose, the CNN Warrior One overhaul included a new engine, new interior, a DVD player with six screens and a stunning airbrushed paint job. A team of artists designed detailed murals to reflect the wartime experiences of the CNN news crew. The result is an eye catching vehicle, that attracts attention wherever it goes.
After its first stop in Atlanta, The RE/MAX Tour for the Troops takes CNN Warrior One to AutoRama in Detroit, and on to The Denver International Auto Show. With several more stops scheduled throughout the year, it's hoped that CNN Warrior One will create an awareness of our wounded veterans, and raise funds to assist them in their everyday lives.
For more information, visit http://www.sentinelsoffreedom.org or http://www.remax.com.
