When Horsepower Meets Patriotism: Inside a One-of-a-Kind Hot Rod

Hot rods are iconic vehicles—loud and proud, but is there more behind their appeal? Most hot rods feature a classic, traditional appearance and are often designed to attract attention with their noise and presence. Owners dedicate considerable time and money to craft a vehicle that expresses their personality. Is this passion driven by a desire for personal enjoyment or the urge to showcase or “show off” their style? Alternatively, could there be a more profound motivation behind these creations?

Hot-rod enthusiast Brent Davis from Macon, Georgia, has owned various hot rods over the years. After September 11, 2001, Mr. Davis was inspired to build a vehicle to commemorate the victims, fallen heroes, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, and military service members. In 2006, Mr. Davis purchased a 1984 Chevy G30 ambulance. The retired ambulance was shipped from California to Georgia.

The vehicle underwent numerous modifications. First, all patient-care interior components were removed, making the van much lighter and enabling installation of the wide wheel tubs. Next, the 1-ton suspension was removed and replaced with a narrowed 9” Axle with suspension equipped with airbags and front and rear disc brakes. The factory engine and transmission were replaced with. 383 stroker producing around 450 hp and a 700R transmission. The engine delivers an aggressive performance sound due to engine modifications and an upgraded exhaust system. The exterior also had some significant changes. The lower body was painted Bright Red, while the upper body was painted Polar White. The Addition of mag wheels, side pipes, and a custom grille gave it a classic street rod appearance. The original emergency lights, including the siren, were reconditioned.

The body was hand-painted by Val Elliott of Val Elliott Art, located in Gray, Georgia. Her design features American history, including the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Doolittle Campaign, and Operation Overlord, on the passenger side. The driver's side features the Twin Towers and First Responders. The rear has all the military insignia.

Twin Towers with the First Responders Tribute

Pearl Harbor, the Doolittle Campaign, and Operation Overlord Tribute

Painting at Val Elliott's Shop

Painting at Val Elliott's Shop

Mr. Davis enjoys owning and working on hot rods, and he loves sharing the process with his sons. However, his favorite aspect of this project is the conversations they inspire and the opportunity to connect with others. During an interview, Mr. Davis was asked why he invests so much time and money in the van. His reply was: “I'm thankful for people who have dedicated their life on a moment's notice to go to our aid or fight a battle that may take their own life, it's not just that person in the uniform, it's their spouse and family too. It's a Patriotic thing. I'm proud of my country and thankful for the people who make it possible for us to live the way we do. That's why I built the van."

While other shops contributed significantly to the construction of this tribute van, Faulk’s Classic Car Repair was proud to be part of the project. Our work included electrical upgrades, rewiring the emergency lighting system, installing front parking and turn signals, OEM side-view mirrors, and automatic door release for the rear doors. The most inspiring and patriotic vehicle we ever worked on.