CHUCK MILLER: WINNING THE "RIDLER" !                       One of the Ultimate Awards that Rod & Custom Builders vie for every year is the  Detroit Autorama "Ridler".  Named in honor of Don Ridler, the shows legendary promoter/producer, it was created after Don's untimely death that occured in 1963. Hall Of Famer Chuck Miller was the 5th recepient of the Ridler Award in 1968 with his superb fantasy creation of "The Fire Truck".  And, celebrating the 40th Anniversary of his winning that prestigious honor,  I asked him about his feelings at that time, what happened to the Truck after that, and, found out where that Trophy Winner is today.    This was Chuck's third appearance on the HOF Legends Series.  He's always been one of the most creative, and respected builders on the East Coast...and he is also one of the nicest guys you'll find anywhere !      JK              (Above left: Lucky #13...Chuck's Ridler Winner "The Fire Truck" ! ; Above left: the Model Kit of "The Fire Truck", as seen recently for sale on eBay !! )                    (Above left: A rare photo of Don Ridler from his football coaching days; Above right: The  Ridler Award  Name Plaque.)   Note: Some photos on this page courtesy of Street Rodder Magazine. For a great story on the "Ridler" Award, and the man it was named after, read Eric Geisert's story on the Street Rodder WebSite:  http://www.streetrodderweb.com/features/0202sr_don_ridler_memorial_award/index.html