2011

I got talked into doing yet another Christmas parade yesterday with the car club.  This time in the little mountain town of Oark.  I took one of my Mustangs but check out the MV that was participating.  It's hard to tell but I think it's the remains of a WWII 1-1/2 ton Chevy.  You could still make out some of the serial number on what's left of the hood and some bits of OD paint remain.  They say it's been a logging truck in the area for as long as anyone can remember.  Some old warriors just refuse to die!

Here are a few photos I took with my phone at the Lamar Christmas parade.  My 42 GMC lead the way for the Johnson County Car & Truck Club entry.  We had a good turnout from our group.  It was a nice day with the temp around 45 and sunny.  Perfect Christmas parade weather! 

11 Dec - Altus - Christmas Parade by Steve Smith

I just got home from the Altus Christmas parade.  It was another good one but I just took one of my Mustangs this time.  The last two photos are from Altus.  I was further back in the group with my top down, Santa hat on, and a big wrapped Christmas present sticking up out of the back seat.  Some of us went to the Post Winery for a little tasting after the parade.

Tom Creason and I did the AR MVPA proud on 05 Dec at the Greenwood Christmas parade. There must have been at least 150 entries and over 1,000 people turned out for the parade, on a cold snowy day in Greenwood. A Great Time was had by all.  There were lots of really great comments about mine and Tom's military vehicles. This was my first parade and that alone was worth the time in restoring the jeep.   I had some little girls from church in the back seat throwing candy out and shouting "Merry Christmas".   That made it worth everything. 

Marsha and I gathered at my work place and loaded the grandkids into the deuce for the short haul to the staging area for the parade. We headed off, M105 trailer in tow and squirreled our way around the center of town and got to where the staging area was, which turned out to be not quite where they said it would be. As a result, there was no place to park so I just parked where I was- I didn’t think anyone would move me.

Once checked in and given a place in the lineup we waited for things to get moving. In the mean time a Major from the nearby 142^nd Field Artillery came up and asked where I managed to get a deuce and a half. I told him the story and he said it sure took him back and brought up a lot of memories. We were in line behind the 142^nd’s troops marching and a HUMVEE and the AFROTC from the U of A.  Further ahead were some bagpipers, a contingent of Corvettes and other antique cars.  Behind us was a group of marchers from the local Civil Air Patrol. All in all there was a pretty good showing. Although other than a HUMVEE we were the only military vehicle in the parade.

Weather was perfect for the 78th Annual Veterans Day Parade in Branson hosted by the American Legion with the crowd bigger than usual.
Eight Arkansas MVPA vehicles were No. 75 in the lineup of 86 entries. Joe Allison driving his MB with General McArthur (Bill Hobbs who received many loud cheers); Bob and Gloria Blakeney in his GPW; Floyd Blakeney and Sandra Barker in M151A1;  Don Essigmann and Scott Harrison, GPW; James Jackson and Ike, Joe and Alex Madison in M151A2; Gil Jeane is his sharp M35A2 had Everette Avery and Peanut in the cab with 15 or more riders including Veterans on the back of the truck; Gus and Jennie Jones driving M38A1 with passengers, daughter and son-in-law Jenneal and Pat Welch, granddaughters Samantha West, Lauren Cochran, Shelby and Laylan; Andy Rossi with Veteran and picked up another rider on the way.  Rita Allison, Pat Avery, Ruby Essigmann, Denise Harrison and Mary Hobbs watched with pride as every MV rolled by.  On this once in history date of 11-11-11, the parade began at 11:00 a.m. as always, and ended l hour and 11 minutes later

Tom Creason and his wife Krista were at the Veterans day Parade in Van Buren, along with their daughter and her husband. He drove his M1008 and I drove my M50A3 tanker. There somewhere in the neighborhood of 1500 spectators. It was a little cool, but a good time was had by all.    Thank you, Lewis
 

After the Clarksville Veterans Parade we parked the jeep at our son's house in Clarksville..  The next Wednesday Beryl taught 5 classes at the Paris Middle School.  Thursday the school was having a dinner and program to honor the veterans and they wanted us to bring our Jeep.  It is about 25 miles from Clarksville to Paris so we borrowed Beryl's daughter's truck and his grandson's trailer.  The school asked us to park it next to a Hummvee that some of the active air-guard had brought down from Ft. Smith.  Our jeep looked like a toy.   There was about 250 retirees that came and they and the students seemed more interested in our Jeep than the Hummvee. The program was very professional and each veteran was given a red rose.  Gov. Beebe and Sen. Boozman had representatives there to speak and Sen. Pryor wrote a letter that was read.  Channel 5 was there and that evening thy featured one of the students reading a poem that she had composed.  Afterwords we brought the Jeep back to Clarksville.

Friday we drove it to Scraxton (about 10 miles where Beryl's granddaughter teaches).  It was a little chilly in the morning, especially crossing the river.  They had a luncheon and program honoring the veterans.  There was a lot of WWII veterans there.  The students and the veterans really enjoyed looking at our jeep.  The teachers too!!

The jeep is now at home in our garage/shop building.  It was starting real good for us for all these activities.

Phyllis Wirt provided chili hot dogs and sides, cakes and cookies for those that unloaded trailers at her house. Her son Danny, daughter Cindy and friend Wayne Major helped with grilling and set up. Rita Allison baked Ev Harless a birthday cake. Jim Jackson, Joe and Alex Madison, Joe & Rita Allison, Bob & Gloria Blakeney, Floyd Blakeney & Sandy Barker, Steve Smith, Paul & Ev Harless unloaded their trailers and convoyed with Dan Wirt and Nathan House to the parade line-up. The M38 Dan was driving had a break down on the way to line-up. David Hopkins had a break down at line-up so his family rode in other vehicles. Hunter Douglas met us at line-up. In all we had 8 vehicles in the parade. Joe's vehicle held the parade Marshall, the Mayor of Sherwood, and two WW2 veterans. After the parade we met back at Phyllis's to load up the vehicles. As Paul was getting ready to pull out the axle on his trailer broke.

 The 4th annual Veterans Parade in Plumerville on November 5 was their best. Arkansas MVPA was represented by Joe and Rita Allison in
their MB, Jim Jackson and Ike in M151A2 and Clayton and Linda Jones in 5 ton with trailer.  Mayor Ed Paladino drove a military Humvee with county elected officials riding. Special treat was the Devil Dog Marching Band from Morrilton who gave a great performance.  Following the parade, several speeches were given thanking all Veterans

During the month of October both Matilda and our Deuce and a half were on display at Bentonville First Assembly of God Church.

We were contacted by their youth Minister, Tim Parke, with a request for a vehicle to display inside the Church. During each Sunday in October they were presenting their program on “Warriors for Christ”.

We brought Matilda to the Church and they had moved some chairs and laid down plastic sheeting so we could drive her into the Church through an overhead door. The stage was a few stair steps up from floor level so we backed her up the steps at an angle. It was quite a sight to have an M38 jeep inside a Church with one rear tire on the stage and the front tires on the floor. Matilda looked like she was charging the congregation!  The Church had managed to get some embellishments from a local surplus store like camo netting and I provided some Gerry cans and an ammo can or two.  I also loaned them our M2 fifty cal which they displayed in a simulated foxhole with sand bags in the main entrance area.

The deuce was displayed outside the main entrance, other than the second Sunday, since we needed the deuce for an event at the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad station in Springdale. That Sunday the Church managed to have a HUMVEE from the local National Guard Armory there.

All went well and reports are everyone at the Church was quite impressed with the vehicles and displays. This was a little different type of venue for a military vehicle to be shown at, especially inside, but we try to help out anyone that has an interest in military vehicles, patriotism and support of our troops.

Top Row;  Photo 1 - LenaWood and Joseph Pos supervising the unloading;  Photo 2 - Part of Joseph's train…he pulled his m35 and trailer!; Photo 3 - Bruce's dump truck - ready for the parade.;  Photo 4 - The line-up for the parade.  They have a great parade;  Photo 5 - Still lining up;  Photo 6 -  After a lot of dares - Bruce Darden and Joseph Poss hook up for a pull-off competition;  Photo 7-  Joseph started first, before Bruce got in the truck!  Photo 8 - Bruce got in and Joseph's job got a LOT harder...; 

Bottom Row:  Photo 1 - The M35 wasn't much challenge for the 5 ton;  Photo 2 - Not to be outdone Joseph hooked up his wrecker...5 ton to 5 ton.  The weight of the wrecker was all the advantage he needed!;  Photo 3 - Despite the black smoke and dust Bruce was just too light for the wrecker;  Photo 4 - a  lot of power being tied together...they have tried to get the Guard involved, but it seems that is a violation of rules; Photo 5 - Bruce left some pretty good ruts, but that's about all.

Pledge of Allegiance, Bugle by Hunter Douglas

Thanks to Hunter & Martha Douglas for hosting the dinner-meeting, and to everyone that brought food.  Welcome to guests: Wayne & Stacy Majors of North Little Rock  Members attending: Paul & Ev Harless; Joe & Rita Allison; Steve Smith; Gus & Jennie Jones; Jeff and Wade Stinson; David Hopkins and Tom; Tylynn & Jacob Reinemann; Phyllis Wirt; Doug & Kathy Green; April Jones; Kacy & Pat Craver; Betty Smith; Jayne Condley; Don & Kathy Pearson; Ken, Bev and Sarah Mullen; John Hunter and 2 children; and Hunter & Martha Douglas There was a total of 33 in attendance. New Members: Welcome to Penny and Timothy Anderson of Willow Springs, MO; Col Tony & Michelle Bryant of Greenwood (retired commander of Ft. Chaffee); Greg & Teresa Gay of White Hall; Kevin Rainwater, Mark and Cassie of Sheridan; Jake & Tylynn of Jacksonville (USAF); Steven Rose of Ash Flat and Patrick Ward of Tulsa, OK. Rita Allison read the Treasurers Report.  Ev Harless read the August Minutes.
Old Business: 1. The tentative schedule for November & December: 05 Nov: Parade at East End of Pulaski-Little Rock; Cams Car Display at Ft. Root; Parade in Plumerville; Parade in Clarksville. 06 Nov: Convoy from Phyllis Wirt's to Sherwood parade. 10 Nov: Parade in Van Buren. 11 Nov: Morrilton High School presents a program and serves dinner to veterans and their family; Walk of Flags in Morrilton (Program and display); Parades and Program in Russellville: Parades in Hot Spring and Branson, MO. Discussion of Petit Jean Rally: Set-up will begin at 9:00 A.M. on Tues (21st) Set up of the Quonset Hut, Field Kitchen and Stage. LED lights were bought on clearance for $10.00. Decorations were also bought on clearance.  03 Dec: Christmas Dinner, Meeting and Awards at the VFW in Morrilton  2. Joe and Steve discussed the Ft. Smith Air Show. It was attended by over 100,000 people, Thunderbirds performed, food was outstanding, Lewis took his 1/3 size half track which gained a lot of attention   3. Discussion of  011 Petit Jean Rally We spent more than we took in. Need for changes next year.  4. Dues are due by 01 Jan.  5. Turn in nominations for officers President, Vice Pres. Secretary, Treasurer and 2 board members to Rita Allison.
New Business:   1. Health Update: Bill Wilson, past AR MVPA President, had cancerous Kidney removed. Pat Craver is recovering from a Kidney operation.  2. Paul & Ev Harless will be taking a trip, before the PJ Rally, to MS to get more Field Kitchen Supplies etc.  3. Discussion of the 2012 Petit Jean Rally: New boundaries - extend West to the spicket; East to the trees; North to the trees; and South to the highways; Duties - KP (to relieve the women), Duties :Semi-Trailer Crew Chief, Guard duty; Security; Expenses and Cover Charge - port-a-potties, electricity, meals (perhaps $6.00 per person per day - excluding children 18 and under); Suggestions or ideas - Change entertainment to daylight time, Advertisement for the Rally (and the Red Ball), Competition - bring military photos of members in early service days - see how many can be

Long time friend and fellow WWII reenactor Terry Johns of St. Louis once again planned and executed a great convoy around the Arcadia Valley area in Missouri last weekend.  Everything went off right on schedule, we had perfect weather, and no one got lost in the woods this time.  We had four vehicles participate.  Terry brought his MB, Patty and Monte Delmain of Missouri brought their GPW, and AR Chapter members Steve Smith and Steve Sears brought an MB and WC-58.  We also had riders Mary and Bill Hobbs (AR MVPA members) and Butch and Tanya Baker (Mid-America MVPA members).  We ran a backwoods route through the Mark Twain Forest in the morning, returned to our base in Lesterville and participated in their heritage day parade, and ran the second half of the convoy in the afternoon.  Notable afternoon stops included Johnson Shut-ins Park, Elephant Rocks Park, and the Civil War Battlefield at Fort Davidson.  Our lunch stop was the little town of Caledonia which was crowded with people there for the annual Pumpkin Festival.  We lucked into a row of parking spots on a side street right across from a great little BBQ place.  Our vehicles, General MacArthur, and Steve's dog Fergus, got a lot of attention.  Since all of us were in uniform we mixed in well with reenactors from other periods that were milling about town.  The stop in Caledonia and the parade in Lesterville were highlights of a another fantastic convoy!  Thanks Terry!

Another fantastic Ft. Smith Air Show is behind us.  Members Lewis Anderson, Marsha and Jerome Casey, Krista and Tom Creason, Joe Allison, and Steve Smith, brought vehicles.  Jim Starbird stopped by. We had a couple 2-1/2 ton trucks, an M-880, a couple trailers, Staff Car, MB Jeep, and Lewis's scale Halftrack that once again stole the show.  We had large crowds touring our display both days and the bulk of the people were always around Lewis's Halftrack.  Stanchions made by Jerome with Pauls' simulated barb wire strung between them kept the crowd somewhat under control and there were no major problems.  Our only mistake was not bringing some AR Chapter brochures to hand out.  Hopefully those that asked will follow through on the web-site info we gave them and maybe we'll pick up a few new members.  One of the most interesting people we met was the pilot of a military Bell helicopter that was on display right behind our area.  He lives in Black Rock and is very interested in our group.  We might have a chopper on display at Petit Jean next year!

Photos by Steve Smith: Photo 1.  Joe Allison, Lewis Anderson, Jerome Casey, Marsha Casey in Joe's MB; Photo;  2. Overview of vehicles; Photo 3. Joe Allison and his MB; Photo 4. Steve Smith and his Ford Staff Car; 5. Marsha & Jerome on a Mule; 6. Lewis Anderson driving his 1/3 size half track; 7. Bell Helicopter

Pledge of Allegiance
1. Thanks to Andy & Janet Rossi for hosting the dinner-meeting, to Big Joe Drilling for the delicious BBQ and also to everyone that brought food.
2. Welcome to guests: Marie Porter; Christina & Jay Clark, Mary and James (daughter & son-in-law and grand children of the Rossi's); Lily Johnson;Ken & Delois Cox; Jackson Rayburn; and Paul & Evelyn Enderlin.        3 Members attending: Paul & Ev Harless; Joe & Rita Allison; Jim & Nell Jackson; Joe & Pam Drilling; Joe & Pam (1st time attender) Madison, Alex and Xochilt Madison (grandchildren); Bob & Gloria Blakeney; Jerome & Marsha Casey and Emma Jones (grand daughter; Lewis Anderson; Andy & Janet Rossi; Dan Sharon; Steve Smith; Dave & Erma Smith; Gus & Jennie Jones; Jeff and Wade Stinson; David & Lenna Hopkins and Tom; and Hunter & Martha Douglas There was a total of 45 in attendance.     4. New Members: Welcome to Major Isaac Galen Horton, born Aug 16, 2011 to Christy & Galen Horton.
5. Rita Allison read the Treasurers Report.      6. Ev Harless read the July Minutes.

Old Business: 1. The tentative schedule for the 3rd Quarter: Sep 9-10 WWII at the Lake- Lake Charles State Park (Powhatan); 10 Sep - Perry County Fair Parade; 21-24 Sep Petit Jean Rally     2.Discussion of Petit Jean Rally: Set-up will begin at 9:00 A.M. on Tues (21st) Set up of the Quonset Hut, Field Kitchen and Stage. LED lights were bought on clearance for $10.00. Decorations were also bought on clearance.     3. Joe & Rita Allison and Steve Smith discussed the Convention in Dayton Ohio. There were 22 (or more) AR MVPA members in attendance. This is one of the larger Conventions with over 200 Vehicles and the 400 vendors located both inside and out. Bill Barnes entered his M43B1 Ambulance. A club table was set up. Several members had vendor booths. The AR MVPA won the Award for Website Excellence for 2011. The Awards Banquet was held almost under the wings of a B52 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Roy VanWicklin (producer of the poster 4WD) passed away at the Convention. John Pojunos went to the hospital with breathing problems.

New Business:      1. Health Update: Bill Wilson, past AR MVPA President, has been in the hospital.     2. Doug Green's mother, Dora Jacqueline Green passed away on Aug 10.      3. Bill Barnes was inducted into the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame for the Forestry Department.     4. Lewis Anderson is handling the arrangements for the Military Vehicles participating in the Ft. Smith AAR Air Show. He is working through Randy Barantine. Our vehicles will enter the gate by the Fuel Storage. The base needs names of drivers and vehicles that will be on display.     6. Paul Harless gained information from Bill Wilson about restoration of Bill's M43B1 Dodge Ambulance.     7. Paul & Ev Harless will be taking a trip to MS to get more Field Kitchen Supplies etc.

Meeting Adjourned: Those that wanted took a ride on Lake Hamilton on Andy & Janet Rossi's party barge.
 

Pledge of Allegiance was led by Jerome Casey

1.  Thanks to Jerome & Marsha Casey and Lewis & Molly Anderson for hosting the dinner-meeting and also to everyone that brought food.     2. Welcome to guests:  Lucy Liu of Bentonville, friend of Steve Smith    3 Members attending:  B.J.& Lacy Smith; Ben & Jane Hunt; Ken & Beverly Mullen; Jerome Marsha Jones Casey; Bob & Gloria Blakeney; Ron Naef; Joe & Rita Allison; Floyd Blakeney and Sandra Barker; Steve Smith and Lucy Liu; David Hopkins; Linda Henley; Marty London and Thelma Grigg; Jason Curtis; Lewis & Molly Anderson; Ervin & Doris Hutchins; Dan Sharon; Paul & Ev Harless .   4. Rita Allison read the Treasurers Report.    5.  The June Minutes are posted in the July newslette

Old Business:  1.  The tentative schedule for the 3rd Quarter islisted in the newsletter.  The 20 Aug Meeting/Potluck, hosted by Andy & Janet Rossi will be in Hot Springs.   2.Discussion of Petit Jean Rally:  USO Show will be in front of the bleachers by the Field Kitchen.  Clayton Jones is loaning us a long bed trailer for the stage.  Decorations were bought for the stage.  The Navy Blue tees for the ;Rally will be designed to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Petit Jean Rally (on front) and the 20th Anniversary of the AR MVPA (on back); There will be a Birthday Party for junior members; Bring  pictures for the photo display; Junior members bring photos or posters for competition..   4. Joe  & Rita Allison and Steve Smith discussed the  "Cars and Cycles Against Cancer" MV display at Blytheville.

New Business:  1. Health updates are in the newsletter.  Jeanette and Pete Rossi are doing better.    2.  Jerome and Lewis told about the troop train that went from Springdale to Van Buren.    They took vehicles for veterans to see.  Art work by veterans were on display in the Jones Center in Springdale.  3.  Steve Smith told about his trip to the space center in Huntsville - next years MVPA Convention will be in Huntsville, AL   4. Lewis Anderson discussed the Ft. Smith (Air National Guard)  Air show on the 1st-2nd of October.  A new entry gate has been added.  Set up will be in the same place as last time.  Free meals will be provided for those that bring display MVs.  5. Ron Naef accepted the position of Web- Master.  Ev will remain as his assistant.

 I got a preview of some things to see at next years convention there.  The Space and Rocket Center is a must.  Here are a few photos.

1.  Thanks to Phyllis Wirt for hosting the dinner/meeting and to everyone that brought food.  2.  Welcome guests:  Patricia & Gary Mills of McRae; Doug House of North Little Rock; and Greg Englehardt & Rose Casanova.  3.  Welcome to new members:  Claire & Irma McChristy of Russellville.  Members present:  Hunter & Martha Douglas; Victor & Denise Quick; Doug & Kathy Green; "Big Joe" Drilling; Robert Woods; Joe & Rita Allison; Steve Smith; Floyd Blakeney and Sandra Barker; Phyllis Wirt; Bob & Gloria Blakeney; Jim Jackson; Alex Williams-Madison; Joe Madison; Andy & Janet Rossi; Jeff and Bev Ellison; Mike & Robyne Culver; Paul & Ev Harless. There were 33 present for the dinner/meeting.  4. Rita Allison read the treasurers report.  5. Ev Harless read the May Minutes

Old Business:  1.  The tentative schedule for the 3rd Quarter:  04 Jul and 18 Sep - Walk of Flags in Morrilton, AR where over 500 flags are on display; 23 Jul - AR MVPA Meeting/Potluck hosted by Jerome & Marsha Casey and Lewis & Molly Anderson at the Community Church in Greenland; 20 Aug - AR MVPA Meeting/Potluck hosted by Andy & Janet Rossi in Hot Spring; 22-24 Sep 11th Annual Petit Jean Rally .  2 Steve Smith discussed the Blytheville Cars and Cycles Against Cancer (CCAC)  event.   Paul Harless read an email of appreciation from Steve Southard for the AR MVPA vehicle display.  Steve hopes we will bring more vehicles to the 8-9 Jun 12 CCAC .  3.   Joe Allison  discussed the Heritage Day at the Jacksonville Museum of Military History. 

New Business:  1 Health Updates:  Pete Rossi is in the hospital in Conway.  They are trying to diagnose his breathing problems; Gus Jones has been to the hospital with severe sinus problems; Ev Harless is doing well after surgery to remove two lymph nodes.  A micro cancer cell was found in the firts nodule, but the 2nd was clear of any cancer cells.  The doctor declared her free from the melanoma cancer; Mike Culver is doing well after an operation on his leg; Gary Pack has developed throat cancer and is taking radiation treatments. (Gary has been a guest of Jim Jackson at a number of AR MVPA events).  2.  The upcoming 10 th Anniversary of the Petit Jean Rally was discussed.  A flat bed trailer will be used for the stage for the USO show on Friday evening.  3.  Reminder of the MVPA Convention in Dayton, OH,  04-06 Aug.  4.  A new technical tip page has been added to the web site.  5.  "Big Joe" Drilling  invited everyone to attend the 4th of July celebration at Maumelle Park on the River.  BBQ and drinks will be provided .Fireworks will begin between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m..  Bring a lawn chair.  6.  Robert Butch sent word to invite AR MVPA to bring military vehicles to the Sherwood Veterans Day celebration on 06 Nov at 2:00 p.m.  7. Happy Birthday to those with June birthdays.  There were 5 birthdays today and yesterday:  Lewis Anderson, Gloria Blakeney; Lisa Fox, Jeannie Reed and Gloria Vaught .

Meeting Adjourned:  A group picture was taken of those present for the meeting.

Photo 1. Doug House looks over the many side dishes that were served with the BBQ ribs and brisquet.  Photo 2.  Phyllis Wirt stirred the Pasta salad while Bob Blakeney, Joe Allison and Floyd Blakeney filled their plates  Photo 3.  Paul Harless, Doug Green, Hunter & Martha Douglas enjoying the dinner. Photo 4 - Meeting   Photo 5 -  Group Photo  Photo 6 - Group Photo by Mike Culver

Events throughout the day included a variety of (Photo 4) bands and singers; vendors; competitions; (Photo 7) motorcycle, (Photo 6) antique autos and military vehicle displays; door prizes and vehicle awards. (Photo 1) -Money earned for this event  ($22,000) will be donated to a cure for cancer.  AR MVPA members that attended this event are:   (Photos 2 & 3) - Joe and Rita Allison; Jeff & Gail Clark; Paul & Ev Harless and Steve Smith. It was a long drive to Blytheville, but the time, effort and money spent were well worth it. This is an annual event.  We hope to have a bigger showing of military vehicles next year.( Photo 8) - Jeff and Gail Clark won an award with their GPW and M100  trailer.

AR MVPA provided 12 military vehicles for the Heritage Day display:  Joe & Rita Allison brought their WWII slat grill MB; Vie & Denise Quick brought their Viet Nam era M151A1; Jim Jackson brought his Viet Nam era M151A2; Paul & Ev Harless brought their Korean War M38; James Oldham brought his Korean War M38; Steve Smith brought his WWII Command Car;  Jeff and Justin brought their Gulf War era M1009; Hunter Douglas brought his Viet Nam era M151 A1; Jim & Diane Vandenberg brought their Seabee WWII GPW; David and Tom Hopkins brought their WWII MB.  Mike and Mary Goshen, new members, brought two WWII motorcycles.

Heritage day included: free admission to the Jacksonville Museum of Military History ; Several viewings of the WWII video "Injury Slignt . . . Please Advise"; Free hotdogs and hamburgers, chips and drinks;   Music by the Bluegrass Bombers and Mary Lou Duet (Miss Cabot); and te display of Military Vehicles.

Minutes to the AR MVPA Meeting

1. Pledge of Allegiance  2. Thanks to those that brought military vehicles for the display  3 Welcome to guests:  Fred Zimmerman and Dale Branch of Oppelo (Guests of Joe Allison); Dale Birdwell of Morrilton (Guest of Joe Allison)  4.  Welcome to new members:  Joe Madison and his grandsons Alex Madison and Bryce May (recruited by Jim Jackson); Michael & Mary Goshen (recruited by Andy Rossi. 5.  Treasurers Report by Rita Allison  6. April Minutes were posted in the newsletter.

Old Business:  1.  Tentative Schedule for the 2nd quarter:  Walk of Flags - 30 May, 14 Jun, 04 Jul;  Meetings - 25 Jun in Sherwood, hosted by Phyllis Wirt - 23 Jul  in Greeland hosted by Caseys and Andersons; 20 Aug in Hot Springs hosted by Andy & Janet Rossi;  11 Jun display for the Cars & Cycles Against Cancer; 18 Jun Poker Run in Fayetteville (benefits Veterans Home and POW MIA Recognition Day in Jacksonville  2.  Discussion of the Red Ball Convoy - location not yet determined.  3. New modern dog tag machine has been purchased.

New Business:  1. Sick Bay/Sick Call:  Joe Johnson - in hospital with pneumonia; John Moon - in hospital with heart problems; Lisa Fox - off work with an injured arm; Jeanette Rossi- improving slightly; Gloria Vaught - back to work after back operation; Ev Harless - CT scan showed no signs of cancer spread from the melanoma;   Harold Yantis - continuing chimo treatment for cancer  2.  Thanks to all veterans on the Memorial Day weekend  3.  The movie  "Injury Slignt . . . Please Advise" will play directly after the movie.

Photo 1:  F15 with Jacksonville Museum of Military History in background  Photo 2:  Military vehicles on Display  3.  Michael Goshen's WWII motorcycles;  4. David & Tom Hopkins;  5.  Diane & Jim Vandenberg;   6.  Lunch Line  7.  Bluegrass Bombers  8. Mary Lou Duet, Miss Cabot

Molly and I took the M35A2 and WC55 to Van Buren for the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad's "Annual Troop Train in May".  It leaves Springdale at 8:00 a.m. and arrives in Van Buren at 11:00  a.m.

Jason Curtis and Jerome Casey had vehicles displayed at the Springdale station for the send off.

We arrived at the train station at 12:00 p.m. and parked one block down from the train station as requested.

After they were fed and the parade finished we moved to the back side of the lot close to the railroad tacks.  We talked with several veterans who had ridden the train, including Dave Smith, AR MVPA member from Mena.  After the train headed back to Springdale we also headed home.

The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad ran a veteran’s train on the 21^st of May. Myself and Jason Curtis drove HMV’s to the Springdale depot and visited with some of the Vets prior to the train’s departure. Jason drove his M35A2 and I brought Marsha’s M38- Matilda. We both arrived at about 7am.

We visited with a few of the Vets and talked shop. One of the Vets I met was had been a forensic photographer with the USAF. He had some interesting tales to tell. Another expressed his appreciation for our presence and reminisced about driving jeeps and riding in the back of deuces. He also lamented about the sad state of affairs in relation to patriotism and respect.

The Mayor of Springdale gave a brief speech about Memorial Day and the remembering what it means and what it is in place for and that we need to remember the efforts and sacrifices many have made for the freedoms we enjoy.

The local VFW provided a Color Guard and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  Once the Vets boarded the train and they pulled out we departed with our HMV’s.

I know they had some festivities planned for the Vets upon their arrival in Van Buren and Lewis & Molly were at that end to greet them.                                                                                       

Thought you might also like to see a few photos from a car show in Altus yesterday.  The town put the show on as a fund raiser to complete their veterans memorial.  About 45 cars and trucks (and two MVs) were spread out around their little town square.  I took my GMC with the Jeep loaded in the back.  I had a crowd watching as I drove the Jeep up the ramps and into the truck.  I think they were all waiting for disaster but the Jeep does it with ease.  I came home with a couple nice door prizes and a trophy for the Special Interest Class.  Our Johnson County Car Club was awarded a cash prize for having the largest club turnout and they donated the money to the memorial fund.  We had fun.

Yep, we defeated the Germans once again but it was a tough battle.  Paul Dolle was there on Saturday with his replica STUG so the Germans had us outgunned.  Some GIs were able to get off a lucky shot with a bazooka to take out the tank.  Out of the three battles I only died twice so not to bad I think.  The weather was bad on most of Friday and into Saturday morning but we got all the battles in on time and had tremendous crowds of spectators.  The weather was nice on Sunday and we had the Germans on the run.  Here are a few photos.  Check out Steve's dog Fergus.  He rode in the Halftrack during the battles and loved it.  He's a great battle dog!

1.  The Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Bill Barnes.                                                                                             2.  Bill welcomed he members and guests to Mountain Harbor Resort, his home.  Paul thanked Bill for hosting the potluck/meeting at the Montgomery County Military Museum.                                                                                                                                                              3.  Sixty three members and guests were present.  Guests were welcomed:    Taylor & Kay Stamps and  Bob & Peg Van Keuren (from the Mid South MVPA of TN) ; Alex and James Madison of North Little Rock; Sandy Barker of Adona; Scott & Mikki Black of Hot Springs; Alexis Jamison of Pearcy; Sterlin Henderson of Parthenon; Chris Barnes, Adrian Harrell and Tommy Scott of Mountain Harbor Resort.  Members who were first attenders :  Bob & Barbara McFarland (President & Secretary of the Mid-South MVPA of TN); and Jim McNease of Royal.  Other members attending:  Paul & Ev Harless; Joe & Rita Allison; Ronald Naef; Jim Jackson; Floyd Blakeney; Bob & Gloria Blakeney; Jeff & Bev Ellison; Don & Cathy Pearson; Victor & Denise Quick; Dough & Kathy Green; James & Lora Ingram; Jeff & Kelly, Taylor and Cole Fuller; Kacy & Pat Craver; Gus & Jennie Jones; David & Lenna , Nick and Tom Hopkins; Jeff and Wade Stinson; David & Erma Smith; Rick & Vickie, Katie, James and Andrea Libby; Ron Woodard; Jerome Casey; Hunter & Martha Douglas; Gil Jeane;  and Bill Barnes.  Welcome to new member, Michael Campbell of Harrison, AR;                                                                                                                                                    4.  Rita Allison read the treasurers report.                                                                                                                                                         5.  Ev Harless read the March Minutes.                                                                                                                                                           Old Business:                                                                                                                                                                                                  1.  Discussion of the next quarter calendar of events *as listed on the EVENTS page of the web site.)                                                               2.  Red Ball Convoy:  Today (April 10) is the final day to turn in Red Ball registrations and Tee orders.  Jeff Stinson confirmed that the 2012 Red Ball Convoy will be based in Russellville.                                                                                                                                                    3.  $2000 was invested in a cd.                                                                                                                                                                          4. The photo book in remembrance of Sedric Wirt was delivered to Phyllis.  She sent the club a "Thank You" card. which was passed around  New Business:                                                                                                                                                                                                1.  Lewis Anderson was injured on the job and then dropped a beam on his foot.                                                                                            2.   Bill Wilson, past president of the AR MVPA, is selling most of his military vehicles at good prices.  (They are listed in the CLASSIFIED ADs on the web site).                                                                                                                                                                                                3. If you would like to participate in the USO show at the Petit Jean Rally let Molly Anderson or Jane Hunt know so they can have your act scheduled.  Junior members are encouraged to participate as well.                                                                                                                     4.  Hunter & Martha Douglas changed their hosting date to the October 16th date.  The December date is the only open date if someone would like to host that meeting. let us know                                                                                                                                                                 5.  Our largest meeting was hosted by the Allison's in August of 2010, with 66 people present.  This meeting is a close second with 63 in attendance.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Meeting Adjourned

.   

1. Thanks to Doug & Kathy Green and Vic & Denise Quick for hosting the potluck/meeting at the Bismarck United Methodist Church Hall.  2. Welcome to 1st time attender, Trey Wilson (Associate Member)  3.  Welcome to guest Joe Madison of North Little Rock, guest of Jim Jackson; Emma Jones, granddaughter of Jerome and Marsha Casey   4. Welcome new members:  Brad Lynch of Memphis, TN (son of Bruce Lynch); James & Lucia Oldham of Conway.  5.  Rita Allison read the treasurer report.  Minutes to the December meeting were in the January newsletter.  OLD BUSINESS:  1. The tentative schedule for the next quarter was discussed (see Events page for listing)  2. The Red Ball Convoy:  Forms for the Red Ball were handed out to those that needed them.  Jerome said the visit to the Veterans home would be in the early afternoon on Friday.  The Convoy route will basically follow the route taken on the 1st Convoy with some variations.   The Saturday night BBQ would be held at the Community Center to accommodate a larger crowd. The deadline for Red Ball forms will be by the April 10 meeting.  Jeff Stinson will check on the plans for having the Red Ball Convoy out of Russellville in 2012.  Steve Smith will run the route through Subiaco to Magazine Mountain to check on distances.  Andy Rossi will check on a tour of Subiaco.  There is consideration of alternating the base for the Red Ball between Fayetteville and Russellville.  Jerome will continue as the head chairman for arrangements at both places.  NEW BUSINESS:  1. The club voted to purchase  (approximately $1000) a new dog tag machine to be used on all dog tags except the World War 2 style. 2.  $2000 will be added to our club CD so the money can draw some interest. (3) A vote was taken on the Red Ball tee design.  Suggestions were made for some changes in the design.  Trey Wilson will reconfigure the tee design to make the changes.   Pre -orders will be taken as soon as possible. 3.  This September will be the 20th Anniversary of the AR MVPA and the 10th Anniversary for the Petit Jean Rally.  4. The club purchased a photo memorial book for Phyllis Wirt.  The book was signed by members present.  A $25.00 donation was made to the church Kathleen Smith attended (Steve Smith's mother).  5.  Red Ball Calendars are in.  There are several extra copies available.  7. Hunter & Martha Douglas volunteered to host the December meeting.  6. Hunter Douglas, Jr. will be leaving for Ft. Bennington after the meeting today.  He is trained as a tanker commander and an Infantry Co. Commander.  7. Ron Naef volunteered to add a face book page linked to our website.

There were 35 present for the meeting:  Ronald Naef; Lewis & Molly Anderson; Vicktor & Denise Quick; David and Nick Hopkins; Jeff and Wade Stinson; Trey Wilson; Jeff & Beverly Ellison; Jerome & Marsha Casey and Emma Jones; Andy & Janet Rossi; Bill Barnes; Joseph Sheaffer; Hunter & Martha Douglas; Hunter Douglas, Jr.; Joe & Rita Allison; Kirby & Billie Rabalais; Doug & Kathy Green; James Jackson; Joe Dean Madison; Paul & Ev Harless; Kacy & Pat Craver and Dan Sharon.

Dan, you inspired me.  Got mine out today & did donuts around the cul de sac & ran up the hill to the road on top of the ridge, even took one of my neighbors for a spin.  He still won't come over & shovel my drive, though.  We have 14 inches here at our house.

As of 2PM on Wednesday, it looks like we have about 14 inches of snow. 
 
I had a ball driving the M38 around.  I was very cautious at first because there is no one around to come pull me out.  The jeep never had the slightest problem.  It was funny to look behind the jeep as I was driving.  The jeep was leaving tire tracks but was also leaving axle tracks.  The axles were dragging in the snow.  The front bumper was pushing snow.  I'm still amazed at how well the jeep did.  I never experienced the tires spinning out or any sliding around.  The non directional tires seem to get a good bite in the snow. Clearly, the limit to the jeep is snow that is just too deep.  My guess is that at about 16 inches, the jeep would start bogging down.
 
I did experience one odd thing..  My temperature gauge was pegged out the whole time I was out which was about 45 minutes.  It was pegged out on the low end.  It never got to over 100 degrees.  Yes it was coooolllllddddd out.  Not to mention that the radiator was covered with snow blowing up from the front.
 
Yee haaaaa...........

Here are picture of our M38, M37 and GPW from Saturday.  We are getting tired of the snow!  We got about 12 inches of snow last week.