Heroes' Hot Rods

04/04/2026

If anyone needs high school senior pictures!

Colorado Springs Senior Photography Empire West Photo | Senior Photographer in Colorado Springs, CO.

03/29/2026

Welcome home and thank you for your service.

03/24/2026

Honored to share a new Heroes' Hot Rods feature on local Colorado Springs Hero Jeff "Jethro" Hansen.
Jeff served in the US Navy completing the TOPGUN syllabus and was the Commanding Officer of Two F/A-18 Squadrons - VFA-146 Blue Diamonds and VFA-125 Rough Raiders.
Captain Hansen’s story is a powerful reminder that for many veterans, the passion for cars isn’t separate from their service, it’s an extension of it.
Check out his 1951 Mercury Custom!
Thank you for your service Jeff!

03/03/2026

As a passionate photographer and proud member of the Colorado Springs community, I've always believed in the power of storytelling. My project, Heroes' Hot Rods, is a heartfelt tribute to the veterans who have served our country. I've noticed a unique bond between veterans and their vehicles. A connection that often runs deep, representing freedom, adventure, and the journeys they’ve taken.

Through my camera, I aim to honor these heroes by capturing portraits that not only highlight their beloved rides but also delve into their remarkable military stories. Each image is more than just a photograph; it’s a way to say thank you, to recognize their sacrifices, and to celebrate their resilience.

Join me as we embark on this journey, sharing the incredible tales behind these hot rods and the brave individuals who drove them. Together, let’s pay tribute to those who have given so much and continue to inspire us every day.
If you know a veteran or first responder with a vehicle they love please reach out so we can celebrate them and tell their story! Dave at empirewestphoto dot com

11/13/2025

A closer look at Nate's supercharged 07 NISMO 350Z #0315
I'd also like to share a quote from Nate -
"A lot of people don’t realize that veterans often struggle to “turn it off” after leaving the service. You see all kinds of coping mechanisms—some healthy, some not. The structure and sense of purpose we had in uniform don’t just vanish overnight. Without something to focus on, some vets drift or make poor choices. Others chase adrenaline to fill the void left by the intensity of active duty.
For me, cars filled that space. The mechanical challenge, the problem-solving, the sense of progress—it’s grounding. Many vets find similar comfort in hobbies like auto maintenance, racing, woodworking, or other hands-on pursuits. So, if you know a vet who’s diving headfirst into a hobby like mine, try to offer a little grace—or better yet, a little enthusiasm."

11/11/2025

Happy Veterans Day!
In this edition of Heroes’ Hot Rods, we feature Nate Tueting, a 20-year veteran of the United States Air Force and United States Space Force, whose journey from operating satellites to building one of the cleanest NISMO 350Zs around is a testament to precision, perseverance, and passion.
Thank you for your service Nate!

10/09/2025

A closer look at Rob Griggs' 1934 Ford Truck Rat Rod

09/22/2025

A closer look at Mark Heinecke's LS swapped Olds.
Peterson Performance & Repair