The unsung heroes of Army Racing and the U.S. Army are the transporters. After all, the #39 U.S. Army Team can't win a NASCAR race if the car, tools and tires aren't there. For military missions, one of the most important jobs in the U.S. Army is getting Soldiers and their equipment where they need to be.

The Army Racing team is responsible for keeping the 500 horsepower hauler in proper running order to get two racecars plus diagnostic and repair equipment from race to race. When it comes to the HETS, a team of highly-trained Wheeled Vehicle Mechanics maintains a similarly-sized 500 horsepower engine that carries an even bigger burden: a total of more than 100 tons (40 tons of tractor and trailer, plus 70 tons of cargo).

The #39 U.S. Army Racing Team hauler carries an entire garage to every race: two race cars in the top section, additional engines, tools and a workspace in the bottom section. The HETS team works together to transport, deploy and evacuate a range of equipment, from trucks and bulldozers to combat-loaded M-1 Abrams Tanks. There is even room in the HETS cab for four additional Soldiers. Transport Operators depend on the trailer's independent rear-axle steering to handle demanding on- and off-road conditions.

The #39 U.S. Army Team hauler driver does more than just spend long hours behind the wheel. He has to handle the hauler's 13-gear transmission, carefully load and unload the trailer, and keep it stocked with all the necessary equipment. HETS Motor Transport Operators and Wheeled Vehicle Mechanics perform the same duties, but have an even heavier responsibility; the success of the mission depends on the safe delivery of their cargo and equipment.