NASCAR Legend Walter “Bud” Moore Passes Away

Image courtesy Getty Images/Jason Smith
NASCAR Legend Walter "Bud" Moore Passes Away
Image courtesy Getty Images

Walter “Bud” Moore, winner of multiple NASCAR championships as both a car owner and a crew chief, as well as a decorated veteran of World War II, passed away recently at the age of 92. A native of Spartanburg, S.C., prior to his death Moore was the oldest living member of the NASCAR hall of fame, into which he was inducted in 2011.

Moore joined the military in 1943 after graduating high school. He was assigned as a machine gunner to the 90th Infantry Division, which was attached to General G. W. Patton’s “Third Army.” Moore received no fewer than five Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars (the second with clusters) for his service.

Along with many other veterans, Moore got involved with auto racing not long after his return from service. When NASCAR was created in 1948, he began working for the organization, which eventually became a lifelong passion.

NASCAR Legend Walter "Bud" Moore Passes Away
Image courtesy Getty Images/Jason Smith

His cars did well – very well. In total, Moore won 63 times as an owner in NASCAR, beginning in 1961. His final premier series victory was in May of 1993.

“As a crew chief, Moore guided NASCAR Hall of Famer Buck Baker to a championship in 1957,” said NASCAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian France. “As an owner, he captured consecutive titles in 1962-63 with another Hall of Famer, Joe Weatherly. Those successes, along with many more, earned him his own spot in the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011.”

Moore was a truly exceptional man in many ways, and his passing leaves the automotive world a little less bright.

“We will miss Bud, a giant in our sport, and a true American hero,” France concluded, summing up the thoughts of many NASCAR fans and friends of Moore alike.

3 Comments on NASCAR Legend Walter “Bud” Moore Passes Away

  1. Wow, A Machine Gunner meant that HE was the primary target for enemy fire!
    It takes a very brave man to do that job.
    RIP Mr. Moore, and thanks for your service to America.

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