Decorated War Hero named Grand Marshal of the Grand Prix of Baltimore

BALTIMORE – Col. Gregory Gadson has been named Grand Marshal of the Grand Prix of Baltimore for Sunday, Sept. 2, 2012. Col. Gadson has served in every major American conflict of the last two decades, and has received the Legion of Merit, three Bronze Star medals and a Purple Heart. During his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007, Gadson was severely injured, losing both legs above the knee and severe damage to his right arm. Gadson continues to inspire, remaining on active duty in various leadership positions, and he also played a featured role in the recently released film, Battleship.

"Greg Gadson is an American hero. We are proud for his affiliation with the Grand Prix of Baltimore," said John Lopes, President of Andretti Sports Marketing and a former U.S. Army Captain.

Gadson continues his active duty in the U.S. Army, and has a master's degree in policy management from Georgetown University and a fellowship at The Institute of World Politics. In 2011, he received the American Legion Patriot Award, in addition to other prominent civilian awards such as the NCAA Inspiration Award in 2010 and the 2008 Hero of the Year Award from Reader's Digest.

The Grand Prix of Baltimore will take place Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31- Sept. 2, 2012 in the heart of downtown Baltimore. This 180mph Festival of Speed is expected to bring more than 100,000 spectators to watch the cars and stars of the American Le Mans Series and the IZOD IndyCar Series.

Tickets can be purchased and race information can be found at the official event website: www.RaceOnBaltimore.com or through all Ticketmaster outlets. Tickets orders can also be placed by phone at 800-745-3000.