Today is the 15th Anniversary of the Death of Dale Earnhardt [VIDEO]

Johnny Cash may have been the man in black but few wore it better than Darth Vader or Dale Earnhardt. Dale was perfect in black. He was the Intimidator and there will never be another like him. It was 15 years ago today that the racing world lost something it has never gotten back. Racing has continued on since Dale died but it really has never been the same to me.

February 18, 2001 is one of those days that race fans will never forget. We all remember where we were when it happened. I was at home watching the race and listening to Darrell Waltrip calling the race and cheering his brother Michael to victory and then, in his joy, immediately start wondering if Dale was okay. It seemed like a crash we had seen hundreds of times in races before. I never dreamed that number 3 would not be climbing out of that car. This is a guy who would be on his side, flip the car back over and go on to finish the race. There was nothing that could stop Dale...until that day fifteen years ago.

As we get ready to start another race season this weekend, I can't help but think of that day. Daytona is always a special event and a special day but it will never be the same for many of us. Thanks for all great memories Dale. You will never be forgotten and your spirit is forever felt on that track.