At the DAYTONA 500 this weekend, Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, will debut his new Jimmie Johnson Helmet of Heroes. Worn during one of racing’s biggest events, the helmet pays tribute to America’s fallen firefighters and is the result of a collaboration with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, and Carvana.
Johnson, who grew up in El Cajon, California—a community well-acquainted with wildfires—has long been inspired by firefighters. His deep respect for their courage and service informed the creation of this tribute, honoring those who lost their lives in the line of duty and the families they left behind.
The Inspiration Behind the Helmet of Heroes
As a child in El Cajon, Johnson witnessed first-hand the impact that firefighters have on their local communities, shaping his appreciation for their work. Asked about alternative career paths, he often cites firefighting as his second calling, influenced by experiences growing up among everyday heroes.
“Growing up in El Cajon, I saw firsthand how much firefighters mean to their communities,”
said Johnson.
“I’ve always said that if racing hadn’t worked out, I would have wanted to be a firefighter. The courage, selflessness, and commitment it takes to do that job is something I deeply respect. The ‘Helmet of Heroes’ is about honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and standing with the families who continue to carry their legacy every day.”
– Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Supporting Firefighter Families Through Partnership
The Helmet of Heroes initiative is coordinated by LEGACY MOTOR CLUB to support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), which was established by the U.S. Congress to recognize fallen firefighters, provide support for their families, and improve safety within the profession. Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, one of the country’s leading providers of fire protection and life safety services, is a key partner for the program.
Pye-Barker’s collaboration with the NFFF extends through its What Matters community impact platform, specifically supporting the Foundation’s Staff Rides program. This program brings firefighters to the sites of past tragedies for valuable learning experiences to help prevent future loss. With thousands of team members, including many former and current volunteer firefighters across 47 states, Pye-Barker maintains a deep, personal connection to the fire service community.
Special Guests at the Race Celebrating Fire Heroes
In keeping with the tribute, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB will host two NFFF representatives during the DAYTONA 500: Jessica Seaburg and Marisa Harris Boykin. Both women lost their fathers—Kevin Seaburg and Clifford Harris—who died in the line of duty when Jessica and Marisa were children. Today, they serve as peer supporters for other Fire Hero Families and cofounded the Children of the Legends group, which brings together children of fallen firefighters to share stories and support each other.
Helmet to Be Auctioned for Firefighter Support Programs
After Johnson’s appearance in The Great American Race, the custom-made Jimmie Johnson Helmet of Heroes will be auctioned off by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The unique helmet, which displays logos from both Pye-Barker and the NFFF, will raise funds for the Foundation’s ongoing mission and programs supporting firefighter families and safety initiatives.
Partners Reflect on Shared Mission and Community Impact
“Our business was founded on protecting lives, property, and communities, and our team members across the nation take that mission to heart,”
said Bart Proctor, CEO of Pye-Barker Fire & Safety.
“Partnering with organizations like the NFFF and programs like Helmet of Heroes helps us extend our commitment, supporting initiatives that truly save lives and recognize those who make our communities stronger.”
– Bart Proctor, CEO of Pye-Barker Fire & Safety
“To see fallen firefighters honored on a stage as big as the DAYTONA 500 means a great deal to the families we serve,”
said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
“This tribute keeps the memories of our nation’s Fire Heroes alive, highlights the ongoing need to support their loved ones, and inspires us to deliver on our mission. We’re grateful to Jimmie Johnson, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety and all the partners for coming together to make this happen.”
– Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
Honoring Firefighter Legacy on Racing’s Biggest Stage
The Helmet of Heroes effort symbolizes the strong shared values between Jimmie Johnson, Pye-Barker, Carvana, and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. By using the visibility of the DAYTONA 500 to honor those lost and support the families who carry their memories forward, the project places a much-deserved spotlight on firefighters’ bravery and sacrifice. As the race unfolds, the legacy of these heroes will be honored before a national audience, with lasting benefits provided to their loved ones and the entire firefighting community.
