On August 3rd, 2013, Assistant Chief Christy Ridgell and Lieutenant David Morris took Ambulance 48 to the annual Butch Nelson Memorial Car Show, at the St. Mary's County Fairgrounds in Leonardtown, MD. This car show raises money for Hospice of St. Mary's and cancer research. Butch Nelson was a long-time antique car show enthusiast according to car show organizer Mike Evans. Evans was friends with Nelson and his family and since his death has been showing Nelson’s beloved 1957 Chevy. The Chevy was prominently displayed at the Saturday show.

For those who don't know, Ambulance 48 was purchased new in 1972 by the Ridge Volunteer Rescue Squad. In 2001, it was forced to be moved outside in the elements due to our squad fire. A few years ago, a committee was formed to repair and restore the issues with the Cadillac. After many tedious hours and sleepless nights by our committee and LP Mercure, the Cadillac was restored to it's original condition, including lights, siren, the original stretcher and the original equipment in the rear of the ambulance.

Upon arriving at the car show, we were placed up front along side Seventh District VFD's Engine 52 and Brush 5. After numerous people came over admiring the Cadillac, it was time to be judged. The judges looked over every inch, including the motor and interior and didn't miss an inch. After another hour or so of watching the coinciding tractor pull, it was time for awards to be handed out. There were numerous awards handed out to beautiful cars in the show. Midway through, the "Best Emergency Vehicle in Show" award came up, with Ridge VRS A-48 winning.

First 11 pictures courtesy of Auxiliary member Carol Lowmiller. Rest courtesy of TheBayNet.