May 25--ABINGDON, Va. -- Seen from above, the top of the ambulance could almost be an American flag flapping in the breeze.
And in the rear-view mirror, a motorist pulling out of the way for the vehicle would find themselves looking into a sea of red, white and blue.
Abingdon Ambulance Service's new ambulance pays tribute to service men and women, with a full-body paint job depicting patriotic scenes.
"We had this new ambulance and [the administration] was trying to come up with an idea to bring attention to some worthy cause," said Kevin Martin, spokesperson for Abingdon Ambulance Service. "We wanted to honor the military in some way."
The top, front and bottom sides of the truck are emblazoned with the American flag. One side of the truck features photographs of Marines participating in a 21-gun salute and the other side features war ships, helicopters and tanks, which represent equipment used by all branches of the military, Martin said.
The back doors pay tribute to those military service members who are missing in action, and to the Wounded Warrior Project. The truck has personalized American flag plates with "ARMDSVC" as the license number.
On one side, Isaiah 41:10, which is Bible scripture that cautions the reader to not be afraid because God is with them, is printed.
"It was kept a secret until it showed up in the garage," Martin said of the design.
He said the ambulance had been ordered and built, but was just waiting for a paint job until the right idea came along. It came back from the design shop last week.
As of Thursday, the ambulance had made three public appearances, Martin said.
"All the people I've talked to have been thrilled with it," he said, adding that he's been asked to take it to veterans events.
The ambulance will make another appearance Monday morning, during Marion's Memorial Day parade, which starts at 10 a.m. on Main Street.
"We wanted to bring honor and attention to those that have served in the past," Martin said.
arobinson@bristolnews.com, 276-791-5459
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©2013 the Bristol Herald Courier (Bristol, Va.)
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