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The Goodguys 23rd Autumn Get-Together is honoring veterans today at the Alameda County Fairgrounds where the final show of the year for this Pleasanton-based Rod & Custom Association and Specialty Sales Classics is under way.

Sponsored by J. Rockcliff Realtors, the colorful day of American cars and patriotism is showcasing customized and restored cars, including over 2,500 classic hot rods, custom cars, muscle cars and more.

An ardent supporter of veterans, Goodguys is honoring the military during the event with free admission today, Veterans Day. All active and retired service men and women will be admitted to the Get-Together upon presentation of their military photo I.D. at the ticket gates.

Free admission is just part of the Veterans Day celebration by the Goodguys. Classic cars were also part of the 16th annual Tri-Valley Veteran's Day Parade held last Sunday in downtown Pleasanton.

At the 23rd Autumn Get-Together, a special vintage military vehicle exhibit is featured inside the Young California building. Colors will be posted today during special ceremonies.

Collections also are being taken at the event in support of Pleasanton Military Families Holiday "Pack-Out" packages (comfort and care supplies that go to overseas troops).

There is also be a special card signing for kids where they can send a note of thanks and holiday cheer to soldiers abroad. Topping it off is an appearance by the Young American Patriots Fife and Drum Corp, a group of grade schoolers decked out in colonial military costumes.

"All of us at Goodguys salute our military servicemen and women," said Goodguys President Marc Meadors. "We're honored to host our freedom fighters for the day at the 23rd Autumn Get-Together."

"Our founder, my father Gary Meadors served in the military and many of our members here and abroad are active military," he added. "We sincerely appreciate the sacrifices our military makes every day for our freedom."

There's a lot more than cars to see at the event. A large swap meet with over 1,200 sellers offers vintage auto parts. A special area is full of kids' games along with a model car exhibit. Vendor exhibits offer everything from vintage clothing and collectibles to auto parts and more.

The Goodguys AutoCross course will be hot all day,featuring hundreds of cars racing around the course in four classes going for the quickest lap time.

The 23rd Autumn Get-Together opens at 8 a.m., closing at 4 p.m. today. General Admission: Adults, $17; kids (7-12), $6; under 6, free. Fairgrounds parking costs $8.

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