An overcast day didn’t dampen enthusiasm for visitors at the Vettes for the Vets car show at Veteran’s Park on Valleydale Road Oct. 12.

A crowd had already gathered on the broad sloping lawn – a perfect backdrop for the 200 stock, modified or show Corvettes, which presented in bright lollipop colors like cherry red, lemon yellow and lime green. One gold Corvette, owned by Terry Truett of Alabaster, caught my attention because of its Hawaii tag. A red Corvette trimmed in American flags was displayed by Terry and Sharon Mathews of Pelham.

The event, organized by Mary Nell Winslow, included an Iwo Jima reenactment, performances by the Hoover High Chamber Choir and Jazz Band, plus several raffles.

This car show was a first of its kind at Veteran’s Park, and was dedicated to military service members who have given their lives. Proceeds went to support Alabama Gold Star Families’ member fund, and to provide for development of state memorials, such as the new National Cemetery adjoining American Village in Montevallo. Further purpose of this event was to honor all military, past and present, a wonderful prelude to Veteran’s Day.

Music from the 1960’s played over a loudspeaker while aroma of Full Moon Barbeque floated in the air. Children and dogs romped.

A family from Vestavia Hills – David and Kathy Kirk, and their children, Tyler, Walker, Sydney and dog, Sally their dog – displayed their vintage Corvette. I asked what motivates one to invest in these cars.

“My family owned a collection … certainly, nostalgia was part of the reason,” David said.

Kathy affirmed the Corvette was indeed David’s “baby,” saying, “He will drool when driving by a car dealership. Cars have been a life-long love of his.”

No doubt other visitors at this car show reflected on a bygone era, a time when similar cars prowled along streets while ’60’s songs played on their radios, their drivers with slicked-back hair, duck tails, tight jeans and penny loafers. It’s good to look in the rearview mirror occasionally, especially when the memories are fond ones.