U.S. Army Top Fuel crew chief, Alan Johnson, announced today he will be leaving Don Schumacher Racing at the conclusion of the 2008 season to become a team owner.

Following are reaction quotes from U.S. Army Top Fuel driver, Tony “The Sarge” Schumacher, and Colonel David Lee, G-7, Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategic Communications for the U.S. Army Accessions Command: U.S. Army Top Fuel crew chief, Alan Johnson, announced today he will be leaving Don Schumacher Racing at the conclusion of the 2008 season to become a team owner.

Following are reaction quotes from U.S. Army Top Fuel driver, Tony “The Sarge” Schumacher, and Colonel David Lee, G-7, Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategic Communications for the U.S. Army Accessions Command:

“Obviously, we’re all disappointed to see Alan go, but at the same time we’re happy for him that he was able to achieve his goal of becoming a team owner once again,” said Schumacher, the Top Fuel points leader. “We certainly wish him the best of luck.

“The U.S. Army team will clearly be starting a new chapter next season with a new crew chief, but before that happens we’re all committed to winning a fifth consecutive world championship. There’s plenty of business to attend to these next few months.”

“Alan Johnson is both an incredibly talented crew chief and leader,” added Colonel David Lee.  “Most importantly, he is an outstanding ambassador for our Army and genuine supporter of the men and women who serve this Nation as Army Strong Soldiers.  We are deeply appreciative of what Alan has contributed to our team.  And although we are sad to see him go, he will carry with him the admiration, gratitude and best wishes of the Soldiers of the United States Army.”