Chase Elliott Embarks on Mission 600 at Wrightsville Beach Coast Guard

Chase Elliott stepped away from the track for a special mission before one of NASCAR’s biggest races. On May 13, just under two weeks before he returns to Charlotte Motor Speedway for the Coca-Cola 600, Elliott joined the United States Coast Guard at Station Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina as part of the 2025 Mission 600 campaign.

The annual Mission 600 pairs NASCAR drivers with members of the U.S. military, aiming to highlight their service and give drivers a firsthand look at daily operations in various branches ahead of Memorial Day weekend.

During his time with the Coast Guard, Elliott got an up-close view of the station’s wide range of responsibilities. Station Wrightsville Beach is part of Coast Guard Sector North Carolina and handles Search and Rescue, Marine Safety, environmental protection, law enforcement, security, and navigation support, as well as recreational boating safety.

Elliott participated in a mock search and rescue operation, learning the skills and teamwork involved when the Coast Guard responds to emergencies on the water. He also helped de-water a simulated distressed vessel and took the controls of a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium, led by the station’s crew.

Elliott said after the experience that meeting the people behind these essential missions made the visit special. He described the crew as highly professional and was grateful to share their daily routines.

For Elliott, connecting with service members brought a new appreciation for what they do, and he hoped they enjoyed the experience as much as he did. The stop at Wrightsville Beach fell just days ahead of National Boater Safety Week, which runs May 17 through 23, putting extra focus on safety practices like life jacket use and awareness on the water.

Chief Petty Officer Parker Hofmann explained that the team runs 24/7 duty shifts, responding to a variety of cases throughout the year. Hosting Elliott let the crew show a NASCAR champion what Coast Guard life is like—both the mission-driven training and the behind-the-scenes camaraderie.

Several members at the station are dedicated NASCAR fans, making the event a boost for unit morale and giving Elliott a few new supporters.

For Elliott, the experience reinforced what makes the Coca-Cola 600 such an important event every year. He highlighted NASCAR’s ongoing commitment to honoring the Armed Forces, especially at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Elliott believes this connection between racing and military recognition grows bigger each year, and he takes pride in being part of an event that continuously honors those who serve.

The Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway is set for Sunday, May 25, where Elliott will return to compete, carrying memories of his Coast Guard visit and strengthened ties to the military community. Fans can look forward to another meaningful pre-race tribute to the Armed Forces, continuing a celebrated Memorial Day weekend tradition.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.