Baker-2-Vegas Volunteer to be Honored with Special Van NR15093pv

Mission Hills: He’s logged more
miles over the 30-year history of the Baker 2 Vegas Challenge Cup
Relay than any other volunteer, but he’s never run a single step;
that’s because George Brown has been confined to a wheelchair his
whole life, but that’s never stopped the 58-year-old from doing
what he wants and following his passion.

“This man has a passion for life and a passion for helping others,”
explained Pastor Martin Morehouse, who is an LAPD reserve chaplain
and George’s brother in-law. “George inspires all of us to want to
do more.”

To mark his 30th
anniversary as a volunteer team driver for the Challenge Cup Relay,
the officers of LAPD’s Mission Police Station and George’s family,
who are also volunteers, have customized George’s specially
equipped van with a special wrap to commemorate George’s tenure
with the race and his decades-long commitment to supporting
LAPD.

“George’s van will serve as our follow vehicle, as it has for many
years,” said Det. Juan Santa, who is the co-captain of the Mission
Station’s Challenge Cup Relay team. “It’s a fitting tribute to a
man who has given so much of his time for us. We wanted him to know
how much we appreciate him, and how much he serves to inspire
us.”

While George’s physical condition is such he can no longer drive
his van, he will be in the van the entire race as the honorary
driver while his sister and Pastor Morehouse take turns as drivers,
March 28 – 29, starting Baker, CA.

The surprise unveiling of the wrapped van will occur Tuesday, March
24, 2015, at the Mission Police Station at 4:00 PM, during the last
team meeting before the March 28 race. Local media are welcome to
cover the event and help to recognize George Brown. His family will
be present, along with the station’s running team and support
volunteers.

Running team captains Det. Juan Santa and Sgt. Julian Munoz can be
reached at (818) 838-9952 or (818) 838-9840.