It was a Half-Track, then a Quarter-Track, now it's a No-Track.  Steve Sears stopped by on Saturday on his way back from Texas and helped me get going on some much needed work.  We had a great day for it and stripped the boggies and volute springs on the left side and got started on the right side.  By the end of the next day the right track was off the sprockets and on the ground.  We busted our knuckles and busted my impact wrench but got it done.  Steve is going to send me the large socket needed to remove the hubs so I can get at the brakes.  Oh my aching muscles!

Here is "Toby" at about 4000 miles since restoration almost 2 years ago and its first snow underway since perhaps 1970.  The zig zag down the hill are the first tracks on that hill ... And they are from my 1943 Ford GPW  Laurie and I drove about 20 miles together and I drove another 50+ on snow covered roads and even some snow and mud.  Press on regardless, Tom E

12 FEB 10: (Tyler, TX) by Jerry Gardner

Here are a couple of my little truck, got about 6 inches of snow here.

Well I didn't get very far in the Jeep (photo 1).  I forgot about the branches hanging low over the trail.  After the third load of snow got dumped down my back I turned around and headed for home to dry out.  It was also too muddy under the snow.  I was expecting the ground to be more frozen then that.  Oh well, it was fun anyway.  Also check out the ice crusted Humvee I spotted on a trailer outside South Park Restaurant at lunch today (Photo 2).  Here's a few more I took around the house (Photos 3-6).
 

08 FEB 10: We got about 2 inches on the ground today.  What was neat was how much snow was in the trees.  See the photos.  It's a sloppy but beautiful mess!

The 29th was mostly ice (photos 2-3).  Photo 1 - Projects waiting for warmer weather.  The 30th was snow shots taken in the back woods at the foot of Petit Jean Mt. (photos 5-8).  Photo 4 - Navy Tractor (1949)

08 Feb 10  We had 7" of snow in Ada Valley.  These are a few shots taken around the house. Projects for warmer weather: Air Force airport trailer; 49 Jeepster; Carryall; M37; trailer; and jeep

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Cabot's red, white and blue Christmas parade was in honor of all veterans.  AR MVPA had 7 military vehicles in the parade:  Steve Smith's 1941 Ford Staff Car with passengers Betty Smith (WWII Veteran) and her daughter Jayne Condley; Jeff Ellison's Communication Truck; Joe Allison's 1942 Slat Grill MB; Floyd Blakeney's M151 A1; Paul Harless's 1943 Ford GPW with passengers Ev Harless and Spookie Harless; Bob Blakeney's 1943 Ford GPW with Gloria Blakeney as a passenger; and Sedric Wirt's 1943 Ford GPW with passengers Phyllis Wirt, his sister Donna and her grandson Brandon.  Additional photos are posted on the photo gallery.

07 DEC 09:  (Morrilton) Walk  of Flags - Veterans' Program & Dinner (by Ev Harless)

395 American flags fluttered in the breeze along the Walk of Flags on Pearl Harbor Day.  The flags are posted on each patriotic day to honor veterans and those men and women currently serving our  country in the military.  It is an awesome reminder of the sacrifices of our armed services. The flags are provided by the Morrilton VFW, Post #4453.  Flags can be purchased in honor of, or memory of, any veteran. Joe Allison's flag is #25.    Flags are also posted for AR MVPA members Vic Brown (#2), Fred DiVincenzo (flag # 3??), Paul Harless (Flag #400, soon to be posted) and Jack & Betty Smith (#23 & #24, WWII veterans) honoring their service. Vic was one of the two founders of this program.  Morrilton High School had an impressive assembly program for veterans and high school students.  After the program a turkey dinner was served by students to all veterans and their families. Additional photos are available in the photo gallery.

06 DEC 09: (Sherwood) Christmas Parade

Sedric & Phyllis Wirt invited us to meet at their home and have a bite of lunch before convoying with our trailers to Sherwood.  We unloaded our vehicles at Sedric's son's place of business and drove over to the parade line up.  Our 6 jeeps transported veterans for the Sherwood VFW:  Sedric Wirt's GPW; Paul Harless's GPW; Bob Blakeney's GPW; Joe Allison's MB Slat Grill; Floyd Blakeney's M151A1 and David Hopkins 's MB. Also riding in the jeeps were Betty Smith, Ev Harless, Phyllis Wirt, Nick Hopkins and Tom Hopkins.  The VFW was given a participation certificate and won 2nd place in the parade.  Additional pictures are posted on the photo gallery.

Hello everyone! Since the Libby kids have been in public school (only their second year) we have been very involved in their activities and learning. Well leading up to veterans day Vickie had spoke to Katie's history teacher Mrs Cronister about putting together a display, because  Mrs Cronister was in charge of putting together the Veterans Day Program this year. So plans were made to have our jeep and other items on display at the program for the veterans to look at. Then we would move the display to the middle school where Katie and James go and have the display set up for the rest of the school day for all the Middle school classes.  This would give them  an opportunity to see the uniforms and items from the Spanish American war, WW1, WW2, Korean war, Vietnam, and modern day Iraqi Freedom. All the school turned out to see the display. We were very horse from talking by the end of the day. The kids loved looking and asked lots of questions about different items and about the jeep. We had two or three classes per period looking at the displays. Some kids got to look several times depending on their class schedule. We had math classes, reading classes, English classes, etc.. turning out to see the jeep and uniforms. we have several pictures of kids enjoying it. The game of the day was putting on helmets and getting their picture taken and guessing where the horn was on the jeep. Vickie asked several classes, "Does this make history more exciting?".  The response was a loud "YES!!"  About a week later Katie brought home a Poster board that said, "Thank you Mr and Mrs Libby for the Military and Jeep display". It was signed all over by teachers and students from the Waldron Middle School. We all had a very enjoyable time.

When I built my 1952 M38 I never thought that it would result in an invitation to the Branson Marine Corps Birthday Ball. But that is exactly what happened…

Branson, Missouri hosts a grand celebration to celebrate the United States Marine Corps Birthday. This year’s event was held at the Branson Convention Center on November 10, and was held in honor of the Marine Corps’ 234^th Birthday.

I was asked to bring my 1952 M38 jeep (which I restored as a Marine Corps model , and happened to be few and far between),  in a couple days early so it could be staged in the lobby and all the decorating and preparations could be prepared around it. As I unloaded it I was a little nervous about whether it would fit between the lobby doors. I took all the mussete bags off the side and folded the mirror in as tight as I could and the jeep narrowly eased through the door opening with at least a half inch to spare. 

I had some time to kill so I went to the Branson Military Museum. It was a good decision as the museum is very interesting and a life size bronze sculpture depicting a beach landing with a soldier from each of our fifty states is the high light of all displays. If you are in Branson I recommend you take in the museum.

I met up with Joe and Rita Allison and the rest of the gang from the ARMVPA at the motel and we started making plans for the Veterans Day Parade. I didn’t know what to do with myself as all the other guys were unloading and preparing their HMVS and mine was downtown in the Convention Center. Soon though my wife Sara arrived to join me and preparations began for the big night. As this was a formal affair I had to begin the unfamiliar process of putting on a Tuxedo. Once we were all dressed up we headed down to the Ball.

As we arrived we were surprised to see the jeep adorned with the American flag and surrounded by lights and camera equipment as it became the background for professional portraits being taken in the lobby. It was quite a sight seeing all these Marines in “dress blues” and their spouses in beautiful formal attire being photographed with my little M38. I was a “proud papa” as Sara and I chatted with other guests as we waited to have our pictures taken.

Soon it was time to go into the Ballroom where we joined close to six hundred other guests, dignitaries, and celebrities that had gathered to celebrate this Birthday gala. Soon the Honor Guard from Ft. Leonard Wood entered the room and led the procession that included the oldest and youngest Marine in attendance as well as a huge layered birthday cake. The National Anthem was sung by the Oakridge Boys and the keynote speech was delivered by Lt. Col. Oliver North (ret.).  The cutting of the cake and the presentation of the colors was very touching.  A fine dinner and dancing to the “Blue Notes” finished of the memorable event. As we decided to call it a night Lt. Col. North was still busy signing books for a long line of folks still gathered in the Ballroom.

I could go on and on but I’ll wrap this up by saying it was a night to remember, and a huge honor for Sara and me to accompany our jeep to the ball.

Attached are a couple pictures of the Hot Springs Veteran's Day Parade that I, my son (Chris), Coast Guardsman Joe Eick, and Jennifer Brewer (Air Evac Representative), and Jeff Fuller participated in.

The Branson Parade was a good one.  This was my second time to do this parade and the crowd was much heavier than last time.  I think they were busing spectators in from somewhere and the streets were packed and lots of veterans in the crowd.  Reminded me of the St. Louis parades of the early 90s.  
 
The AR MVPA fielded eight vehicles.  I decided to take the Staff Car but knew it might not make the whole parade because it tends to overheat when idled for a long time.  True to form it quit just short of the end, right in front of Bass Pro Shop.  Just like someone turned the ignition off.  Three girls on their lunch break jumped off the curb and pushed me off the street and into the Bass Pro loading dock.  So I hung out with the girls and watched the rest of the parade.  After cooling for about 30 minutes it still wouldn't start, even with starting fluid, so I got a ride from one of members back to the hotel to get my trailer.  When I got back in about another 30 minutes the darn thing started right up.  I should have just been patient and waited for it to cool.  I think the coil might be getting hot and opening up.  I've been told that was a common problem on these as the coil is mounted on top of the distributor right behind the radiator.  Other than that the car did great and got a lot of attention.  Our whole MVPA group got a lot of applause!

Here are a few photos.  We were right behind the Branson Ducks. 

AR MVPA was well represented at the 74th annual Branson Veterans Day Parade sponsored by the American Legion. Members and vehicles participating were: Joe and Rita Allison, GPW; Bob and Gloria Blakeney, GPW; Floyd Blakeney, M151A1; Gus and Jenny Jones and granddaughter Shelby, M38Al; Dan, Susan, Luke, Daniel, Nathan and Anna Sharon, M38 and Trailer; B.J."Johnny" and Lacy Smith, MB; Steve Smith, 41 Ford Staff car; Bill and Sara Thorne, M38; Sedric Wirt with Korean Veteran friend, GPW. The weather was great and our group was well received by a larger than usual crowd of respectful, patriotic citizens. On the evening before the parade, most of the group enjoyed eating at Lambert's Cafe, home of the throwed rolls while Bill and Sara were VIP's at the Marine Ball. Then some drove back through town to enjoy the Christmas lights.

11 Nov 09:  (Van Buren)  Veterans' Day Parade (by James Starbird)

The Veteran's Day Parade began at the Van Buren Courthouse around 6 PM. Participants were pretty much mixed in together.  Our M38 was not running, so we couldn't participate this time. I didn't know the drivers of the vehicles pictured.  There were 5 or 6 military vehicles in the parade.  The route ran from the Courthouse East up Main Street and ended at the Baptist Church.  The crowds loved the military vehicles. 

  (by Tom Creason) I was there with my M35A2 deuce and a half.  I had a truckload, son and son in law in the front with me and 12 in the back.  Had a great time, as far as I know there were only 3 vehicles there, all deuces: Lewis Anderson, with his sons in the back of his M35A2; Jerome & Marsha Casey in their M35A2, and me in mine. I took one picture before dark, this is my truck.

Ted Applegate drove his CUCV M1008

10 Nov 09:  (Dallas, TX)  Display at VA Hospital (by Jerry Gardner, President of ETPWMP)

On November 10, the day before Veterans Day, the East Texas Piney Woods Motor Pool (ETPWMP) was invited to put a couple of their Historic Military Vehicles (HMV) on display at the hospital entrance of the Dallas Texas VA hospital.  This was part of the VA hospital celebration of Veterans Day.

Ken Thompson and Jerry Gardner of the ETPWMP traveled to Dallas with their jeeps and placed them on display in the grass next to the main walkway into the hospital entrance.  Jerry displayed his 1942 GPW Jeep and Ken had his M151A1 Jeep.  We were set up on display by 8:30 a.m. and almost immediately were swamped with veterans and hospital visitors looking at the HMV’s.  The vehicles brought back floods of memory to the veterans and we heard many stories and experiences from the veterans.  This was a continual story all day long.  We had veterans, hospital guests, hospital workers surrounding the vehicles all day long.  We did not have time to break for lunch and barely had time for a bathroom break.  The response was overwhelming.  This went on until the hospital slowed down for the day around 5:00 p.m. at which time we pulled our vehicles out to load up and go home.

ETPWMP member Ken Thompson has gone to the hospital many time as a patient and suggested to me that we should do this.  I called the public relations director and suggested it to them.  They set up the date and invited us to come.  The hospital was overwhelmed and pleased with the response from the veterans and guests.  This was the first time this giant facility had done anything like this.   They have told us they have an event in February and would like for us to come back.  We will do it.

This was a very rewarding event.

07 Nov 09:  (Fayetteville)  Toys for Tots (by Jerome Casey)

07 Nov 09:   (Plumerville) 3^rd Annual Veterans Parade (by Ev Harless)

The Plumerville Veterans' Parade began at 1100.  Thirteen AR MVPA members participated in this event:  Vic Brown rode on the Veterans' float; Fred DiVincenzo drove his Military decorated Ratmobile; Betty Smith (WWII Veteran and newest honorary member of the AR MVPA) was a rider in Paul Harless's GPW; Joe & Rita Allison followed in their MB; Bob & Gloria were next in line in their GPW; Floyd Blakeney's  M151A1 with passengers David Vaught and Joe Tyler was the 4th military vehicle; Pete Rossi was next in line in a M38; last in line was Steve Smith's Command Car, with Ev Harless and Spookie as passengers.    Representative Johnny Hoyt dedicated the Veterans monument.  The Attorney General’s office representative dedicated a memorial monument in memory of Joey Cannon (shot in the line of duty when he stopped a vehicle on Hwy 64, earlier this year). Joey's family was presented with a plaque.   Food and  music started at noon.  Additional photos are available in the photo gallery.

24-25 Oct 09:  Ft. Smith (by James Starbird)

The National Park Service hosted a Time Line in Fort Smith at the National Historic Site. It mainly dealt with feeding the troops. James Starbird displayed  his M38, along with Food Rations and other military items depicting Ft. Chaffee during the Korean War era. 

17-18 OCT 09:  Olive Branch, MS  (by Jeff Clark of the Mid South MVPA)

On October 17^th and 18^th the Mid South Chapter was invited to display our vehicles alongside the Aluminum Overcast. This is a B-17G that was built in 1945 and is owned and operated by the Experimental Aircraft Assoc. based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. It landed at Olive Branch, MS airport on the 15^th. This is just south of Memphis in Desoto county.  I believe most of us were awe struck just being in the presence of such a beautifully restored war bird. The crew and the local EAA chapter members were all great people and really enjoyed looking at our historic vehicles. We went through the plane for a tour , but unfortunately the rides were quite expensive and we were satisfied with just watching her take off and land. We definitely made this group more aware of the MVPA and hope they will be in touch with other local chapters so that they might be invited to participate. The plane has a web site that includes all their tour stops. www.B-17.OR

10 OCT 0 9: Tyler, TX Texas Rose Festival Parade  (by Jerry Gardner, president of ETPW Motor Pool)t

The Texas Rose Festival is held in Tyler, TX in the month of October.  Tyler is known as the Rose Capital of the World.  Ever year, since 1933, they celebrate the Rose industry with a gala that lasts 5 days in Tyler.  The main attraction during this event is the Rose Festival parade which is held on a Saturday.  The parade lasts over two hours and is full of floats, bands, classic cars and trucks, all kinds of groups, organizations, dignitaries, Senators and Congressmen.  This parade is televised live in Texas and is seen by over 20,000 live and in person spectators.  The parade finishes up by going in the Rose Bowl football stadium and around the track.  The stadium is full of spectators.

The day was overcast with a light mist.  However, the mist stopped just before the parade started.   Last year, 2008, the East Texas Piney Woods Motor Pool did not exist but we still had four historic military vehicles (HMV) in the parade.  This year after being organized we had ten HMV in the parade.  We had a very diverse group; two WWII jeeps, an M38, M38A1, two M151’s, an M3A1 Scout car, two M35A2’s and a British Ferret.  We carried the parade Marshall and a U.S. Congressman in our Jeeps as well as a Cub and Boy Scout troop in our M35A2’s.  The parade went off extremely well and our HMV’s were very well accepted.  As matter of fact, the Rose parade officials called me a couple months before the parade to be sure we were going to be in the parade.  The spectators and officials loved our entry last year and wanted us back.  Next year we hope to have a larger unit in the parade.

27 SEP 09:  (Mt. Nebo) by Bruce Darden

Joseph Poss, Conrad Clark & I took a trip to the top of Mt. Nebo the day after the MVPA Rally.  The weather was great.  We had a picnic on the Sun Set end.  Joseph & Conrad had their work cut out for them steering their M35A2s on the very sharp switch back.  The power steering on my M51A2 worked well!

11-12 SEP 09:  Powhatan (Lake Charles State Park)  WWII at the Lake (by Steve L. Smith)

Chapter members Randall and Kristen Watts put on another great "WWII at the Lake" event at Lake Charles State Park near Powhatan.  When I arrived mid-day on Friday there were approximately 600 school children spread out in groups all around the main parking area.  The reenactors talked about their displays and WWII history with the individual school groups for 20-25 minutes and then the groups would rotate to the next station.  This worked quite well and the kids seemed very interesteAR d in what they were seeing.  I got my Jeep and 37mm unloaded as quick as I could and joined the Motor Pool group talking about the vehicles of WWII. 
 
Saturday was busy as well with our displays open to the public all day and a great little battle reenactment was staged early in the afternoon.  They had constructed two bunkers for the Germans to occupy and the allies had to take them out.  A couple of young reenactors were assigned to man the 37mm with me and we used the gun with great effect against the bunkers.  For a completely unrehearsed battle it went surprisingly well and the crowd thanked us with a round of applause.  Earlier in the day, near where I displayed my Jeep and AT Gun, a reporter from AETN was conducting recorded interviews with WWII veterans.  It was a great honor to meet these men and listen to their stories.  But it was hard to get too far from our displays.  The crowd was light but steady all day long and there were many questions being asked.
 
Randall Watts is the park superintendent and he provided all the perks the park had to offer including a nice RV for me to use in the camping area.  Randall and Kristen worked tirelessly to keep all the reenactors happy and cooked lunch and dinner on Friday and breakfast, lunch, and dinner, on Saturday.  All the meals were as good as the company.  I saw lots of smiles and heard no complaints from the participants.  It was a wonderful weekend in an ideal setting for such an event.  Can't wait till next year!

07 SEP 09:  (Canton, TX)   Canton Veterans Event on Labor Day (by Jerry Gardner)

On Monday, September 7, we had been invited to attend an event put on by the Canton VFW to help draw attention to their construction project and to help raise funds for the memorial construction at hwy 19 and FM243 in Canton, TX  Some of us convoyed over from Tyler and met at the VFW site in Canton.  We had a spectacular turn out of vehicles: 1942 GPW, Jerry Gardner; 1943 GPW, Rick Ellison; 1943 M3A1 Scout Car, Mike Gamble; 1961 M35A2W/M105 Studebaker, Mike Eckert; 1968 M151A1 Mutt, Ken Thompson; 1971 M35A2 AM General, Scott Easley; 1972 M151A2 Mutt, John and Bob English; 19?? Mule, Rick Ellison  The VFW chapter had an excellent presentation and fund raiser.  The sold helium balloons to recognize veterans and turned them all loose at one time at the end of the ceremony.   After the ceremony, all the military vehicles stayed around for display and than departed with some quests convoyed into town for a hamburger.  We had a very impressive group of HMV in convoy and turned a lot of heads.  After lunch we all traveled back to the VFW site and disbanded.  Mike Eckert (M35A2w/M105 trailer) and I (’42 GPW) convoyed back to Tyler.  It was a good day.

05 SEP 09: (Eureka, Flint Hills, KS) Eureka Flint Hills Convoy - (by Judy Cross)

29 AUG 09: (Perryville, AR) Perry County Fair Parade (by Ev Harless)

Line-up for the Perry County Fair Parade was at the Perryville High School.  The theme this year was "Huntin' Up A Good Time at the Fair".   Paul & Ev Harless were at the head of the parade in their Korean Era M37, carrying the Color Guard Flags.  Joe & Rita Allison followed in their  WWII MB.  Their passengers were Madison Vining, the 2008 Perry County Little Princess, and her mom, Felicia Weaver.  Ben & Jane Hunt and their grand daughter Faith Hunt were next in line in their Korean War Era M38.  The parade included: various fire engines; motorcycles; tractors; 4 wheelers; antique autos; 4 or 5 floats; horses, the Perryville High School band, Perry County Fair Queens and Princesses; cheerleaders and football players.  The "Wild Man" was there from the Forestry Department.  The streets were lined with people all the way from the High School to the Fair Grounds.  There was a good turn out of participants and observers.  The children enjoyed collecting candy thrown out as the parade wended through Perryville.  It was a good event.

Additional pictures are posted to the photo gallery:

08 AUG 09: (Branson, MO) Duck Ride - (by Jerome Casey)

On 8 August Marsha and I went to Branson and ‘Rode the Ducks’.  In conversation with the driver (Captain Foghorn) I made mention of the vehicles they have stored and my desire to see them. The Captain told me they don’t do that part of the tour during the busy season but offered to take us there after he was off duty.  The first area they have is where the rock was quarried for the Table Rock Dam. At one time there was a conveyor from this site to the dam site which stretched approximately 1¼ miles. The view of the lake is beautiful from this vantage point.  In this area there was a Pacific Tractor and Trailer, LARC Amphibious Cargo Carrier, DUKW with trailer, Armored Personnel Carrier, two M211 variants, a Gamma Goat and jeep (either GPW or MB). Most of these vehicles were, sad to say, in poor shape.  Above this site they have a trail through the woods with vehicles along the way. These vehicles appeared to be in rather good condition and are very complete. They included:  M43 Ambulance, a Half Track (sign showed M3 but it is a variant or modification I’ve not seen), Studebaker Weasel, M5 High Speed Tractor, Scorpion self-propelled gun and an Otter Amphibious Cargo Carrier.  All in all we spent about an hour and a half looking at these vehicles and Capt. Foghorn was very gracious in taking his personal time to give us a tour of these vehicles.  By the time we left the sun had all but set.

08 AUG  09: (Heber Springs, AR) Old Soldiers' Parade - (by Don Pearson)

28 J UN 09:   (Bentonville, AR) Celebrate America - (by Dan Sharon - Bella Vista, AR)

Celebrate America was held in Bentonville, AR on Sunday June 28 at 7PM on the town square.  This event was a patriotic celebration of America, freedom, liberty and independence, with a special emphasis on honoring veterans, both past and present.
The weather for the event was perfect!  The afternoon sun was a bit hot, but the evening brought picture perfect temperatures and a nice breeze.  Perfect weather for a summer celebration in the South.
The event featured a musical celebration of patriotic music with a cast and crew of over 100.  Free food, drinks, and ice cream were available for all.  A special guest marine who was wounded in vietnam spoke and reminded us all of the price paid for our freedom.  Our US senator John Bozeman was present as well as many local public officials.  Many veterans and active duty military personnel were present.  A special fly over of jets from the Air National Guard in Fort Smith was one of the many high lights of the event.  The crowd was estimated at 3800.
Special thank you to the Arkansas MVPA members who brought their historic military vehicles for display and appreciation.  Attending were:  Jerome and Marsha Casey; Lewis and Molly Anderson; Ron Naef and Lynda Freeman; Steve Smith, BJ and Lacy Smith; Paul Dolle and two others with him; Me and Susan with our 4 kids (Anna, Luke, Nathan, and Daniel).
We had eight MV's on display.
 
                                       Steve Smith - 1/2 ton Command Car
                                       B.J. Smith - WW II MB
                                       Lewis Anderson - Weapons Carrier
                                       Ron Naef - M151
                                       Jerome - M35
                                       Paul Dolle - WW II jeep and Bantam trailer
                                       Dan Sharon - M38 and mule

Photos by Dan Sharon:

28 JUN 09:  (Bentonville, AR)  Celebrate America - (by Steve Smith - Clarksville, AR)

It was a great show in Bentonville last night.  That was quite an elaborate production.  Patriotism and Wal-Mart money really show in that town.  Our vehicles got a lot of interest and I think we may have signed up a couple new members.  Dan Sharon did a fantastic job coordinating our display with their stage show.
Photos by Steve Smith:

Click on the link below to view pictures from Galen Horten's photo album : http://www2.snapfish.com/share/p=522151253056139069/l=4368149009/g=36830374/cobrandOid=1000001/COBRAND_NAME=bellsouth/otsc=SYE/otsi=SALB

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20 JUN 09:   MVPA Transcontinental Convoy 2009  (Chicago to Rochelle, IL section)  By Timothy E. Dunavin – Squadron 4, EAA Warbirds of America

 Squadron 4 first learned of the MVPA plans for a transcontinental convoy last fall, and started making plans for an evening of dance and entertainment for the troops.  It wasn’t long until things were ready and plans started coming together (a huge learning curve for us, but in the end we got every thing to work out).   With the help of the Illinois MVPA Liason, Bill Campion, we had everything in readiness by the evening of the 19^th of June – the day before the arrival of the convoy. 

An old friend of some of you folks – Bill Hobbs (General Douglas Macarther) from Columbia, Mo., and his wife Mary arrived at my place near Rock Falls, Ill late the 19^th.  We had a fun time cooking out and visiting.

Bill and I had been invited by Bill Campion to ride with the convoy from the Cantigny Museum out to Rochelle, so we were up early and arrived at the Rochelle airport about 8AM the 20^th.   The local Chapter of MVPA took us on up to the Museum, where we got to meet Tim Beasley (General George Patton) from Virginia Beach, Virginia.  The MVPA had invited Tim to be a part of our program out at Rochelle that evening.   General Patton directed traffic as the convoy entered the Museum grounds, and we settled in for lunch.   At this point the convoy was about and hour late.   We ate lunch out of a box and then packed up for the next segment of the trip.  

Ken Thompson, a local MVPA member met us at the Museum with his Command Car, and the 3 Generals rode to Rochelle in style!   Ken joined the convoy there and went as far as Rochelle, as did several others – some going on to the Iowa border. 

Our trip out was lined with onlookers – some  (I know had to be Veterans) saluted as we went by.   We also had 3 “L-Birds” shadowing us overhead.

There had been many activities at the Rochelle airport that day.  Illinois Governor, Quinn, had been there in the morning to dedicate “A Solders Portrait”, and various food booths and a small band played in the afternoon.  

Our arrival in Rochelle was greeted with no less than 3 fright trains (and huge crowds), so ended up at the Rochelle airport at 5PM (scheduled for 3:30).  This gave me just enough time to get into my “Pinks and Greens” to MC the Hangar dance and program.

We started a bit later, but things went well (except for a PA system problem).  We had the VFW post the colors, had the National Anthem, and invocation, then I told the story about how “Taps” got started and recognized the Veterans of all our wars.  

General Patton then gave his speech (George C. Scott’s version given in the movie “Patton”) with a small twist for the MVPA.   Next was General Douglas Macarthur who gave his speech that was given at West point on his retirement. 

Some of you may remember that on one of the Missouri Convoys, we had a group that entertained us near Mark Twain Lake that did Bob Hope and Bing Crosby.   We had this grope at our hangar dance!  They did a great job and they were followed by Johnnie Kay and his big band sound!   We had a great time that evening.

Sunday morning came way too early!!  Squadron 4 had not only put on the hangar dance the night before, but put on a pancake breakfast the next morning!   Most of the folks were convoy members, but later more came out.  We were busy!

The convoy got underway for California right on time – 9AM.

There were over 80 convoy vehicles in the cross-country group and many more that had joined in the convoy at the Illinois border – going to the Iowa border, making about 150 vehicles, in all at Rochelle.   There was even a WWI FWD in the convoy too – but it was on the bed of another truck. 

About the author:  Tim Dunavin is a member of EAA Warbirds of America, Squadron 4 – serving as it’s Newsletter editor.   He is involved with WWII re-enactment, serving with the Living History Group at Oshkosh, Wis. as a full Bird Col.   Tim also is involved with as smaller group in Missouri that has recently promoted him to Brigadier General.  He takes part in the MVPA/Rail Splitter’s Convoy in Missouri, enjoys model building, photography, wood working, and doing family history.  Among other duties, he serves as newsletter editor for both the EAA Chapter 410 at Rock Falls, Ill., and Squadron 4.

19 JUN 09  - MVPA Transcontinental Convoy (Illinois) - (by William Hobbs of Columbia, MO)

Bill Hobbs, an honorary member of the Arkansas MVPA, was invited to link up with the MVPA 2009 Transcontinental Motor Convoy at Weaton, Illinois on June 19.  Hobbs appeared as General Douglas MacArthur along with Tim Beasley, a professional actor from Virginia, who does General George Patton.

They rode 50-miles of the trip with Ken "The Plumber" Thompson in his command car to Rochelle, Illinois, the only stop that was to be at an airfield.  They were greeted by a cheering crowd of onlookers,  a band, and refreshments.  That night there was a "Bob Hope Show" and an orchestra playing World War II music for dancing.  Several WWII aircraft landed and took off during the afternoon adding to atmosphere.

Some MVPA vehicles were part of the convoy for short distances but the number that were with the convoy for the whole trip has not been figured at this point in time.
 

Photos by Mary Hobbs:  Photo 1 - Tim Beasley as Gen. George Patton at Rochelle Airport in IL.  Beasley is a professional actor from Virginia Beach, Virginia;  Photo;  2 - Tim Dunavin, Bill Hobbs as Gen MacArthur, and Tim Beasley chat with two unidentified  re-enactors at Wheaton, IL where they joined the MVPA 2009 Transcontinental Continental Motor Convoy (TMC) for the 50 mile trip to Rochelle, IL.;  Photo 3 - Lead vehicle of the MVPA Transcontinental Motor Convoy  as it pulled into the Rochelle airport; Photo 4 -  Oldest motorcyclist on the MVPA TMC with his 1945 Harley Davidson at the Rochelle Airport.  He rode a Harley Davidson in WWII.

16 MAY 09: (Bellmeade, TX) -  Bellmeade Re-enactment - (by Jerry Gardiner of Tyler, TX,  - ETPWMP MVPA) 

Rick Ellison and I went to Bellmeade.  Rick went Friday and camped out, I drove in Saturday arriving about 8:30 a.m.  I unloaded my 42 jeep and drove around with Rick and helped people move around in the mud.  It felt good to have a good 4 wheel drive jeep.  (Actually saw a half-track pull out a tow rig from the parking lot.)  It rained a gully washer Saturday before  7a.m. and jno rain or just sprinkled until about 11a.m.  Rick and I talked to others and looked around, saw Steve Damon and visited with him.  Around 10:30 we went to McDonalds in my jeep with windshield down, gun up and in battle gear to have a DrP and fries (breakfast of champions).  While there the bottom fell out and it poured.  We finally toughed it out and drove back to the battleground.  It looked to me that the WX was set in to stay rainy for the next few hours so when we got back I loaded up and headed for home.  When I pulled out at right after 12 noon, it was still pouring!!  Rick was packing up also.  Holiday Inn next door was kind enough to give him a room to change into dry cloths to drive home.  I was not so lucky but in the 2 1/2 hour drive I did dry off.  Too bad the battle did not come off Saturday afternoon but Friday night, according to Rick, was good and they had fun plans for Saturday night.  Saturdays battle, I was concerned about the outcome of the battle, I have never seen so many Wehrmacht (German Army)  They were every where!  I have never seen so many!

Bellmeade Re-Enactment:  (by Billinda Mainard of Baytown, TX) 

Just wanted to let you know about Bellmeade. It rained most of the time.  Luckly, David loves to play in the rain and they were able to do the show.  David did not use his truck in the show/mudpit. Dad's F-250 got stuck in the mud just trying to check on the trailer and a WC-52? had to pull it out.  The Waco tribune has pictures. I hope this link works:
www.wacotrib.com/photos/mediahub/media/slideshow/index.jsp?tId=159541
William is  picture# 18 and David is in picture # 54? in the back, your right side, with the helmet net-the guy you can't see.  David, Dad, & William had a great time.  Mom got sick and she & I didn't get to go to the battleground.  During the night battle it was so windy that the flares went over and tried to set the lumber at the Home Depot on fire.  Of course the fire dept was already there so they had it under control quickly.  Several landed on the freeway and DPS was not happy

08 May 09 - (Bismarck, AR) First Firing of the Glamour Gal (By Ev Harless)

A ceremony for the first firing of the replica Glamour Gal was held at the Bismarck High School before an audience of students, veterans, AR MVPA members, and others. Among the observers were three generations of Thomas O. Batcher. Thomas was a crew member of the original 105 mm Howitzer, “Glamour Gal”.  The ten man crew from the 5^th Marine Division, 13 Regiment, G Battery fired the first shot in the invasion of Iwo Jima some 65 years ago.   Bill Latch, veteran of WWII, had the honor of firing the first shot of the replica.  Bill had received two purple hearts, a navy cross and a silver star for his heroic efforts in Iwo.  He fought in front of the Glamour Gal in hand to hand combat, killing over 35 enemy troops.

Jim Ostrich, MVPA Associate and owner of the Warbirds West Air Museum of San Diego, CA, gave the keynote speech.   Jim had contacted Doug Green, MVPA Associate, a year and a half ago about constructing a replica of a 105 mm howitzer for his museum in California.  In researching the howitzer Jim came in contact with Angelia Batcher Bess, who had been instrumental in collecting and documenting the history of the Glamour Gal and her crew.  This prompted Jim to detail his howitzer after the original Glamour Gal. 

The AR MVPA provided escort for the Glamour Gal to and from Doug’s home, 2 miles north of Bismarck, to the Bismarck High School.  The howitzer was towed behind Bill Barnes deuce and half, followed by seven jeeps and a deuce and half.  The Glamour Gal is now en route to its new home at the Warbirds Museum in California.

To view all of the photos go to the Photo Gallery and click on the first column.

02 May 09:  (Fort Worth,TX) - Convoy  - (by Tom Essary of Arlington, TX)

 Early on a cloudy Saturday in May 2009, 7 Army jeeps and their owners converged at a city park in a tiny town outside of Fort Worth, TX for a days drive through the country.   Left Crowley at 0815. After only about 6 miles M38 overheated on account broken fan belt. GPW-20533073 spare fen belt would not fit as M38 had non-military alternator. Rolls Champ required brake fluid, provided from previous GPW. GPW-20196062 required clutch adjustment. M38 driver and Champ crew return to Crowley for parts. Parts acquired and installed. Champ out of commission on account of brake problems beyond field repair. Convoy delayed in starting on account GPW-2019062 missing clutch linkage pin. Repaired with wire. Back on the road at 1030. Stop at Godely, TX gas station found no trouble, but purchased a fuse for GWP-20533073 for non-military signals. Problem discovered before convoy, but could not be repaired. After earlier maintenance delays, stop at state park abandoned. Stop at 1130 account GPW-20196062 loss of oil pressure. Added oil. Stop provided a group photograph opportunity. Shortly after getting on the road GPW-50533073 speedometer stopped working. Arrived Glen Rose, TX and lost last two in convoy at a sharp turn. Delayed only about 20 minutes. Luncheon at Anderson Restaurant on the Square. Excellent food and service. Rain during luncheon prompted several to put up canvas summer tops. GPW-20159953 required water. At next fuel stop GPW-20533073 required air for all tires. Some jeeps topped off fuel. Next stop at Brazos River bridge found GPW-20196062 with a dead battery on account faulty generator or voltage regulator. Troops pushed jeep to start it. Stop on account GPW-20196062 low oil pressure. Added oil and tightened loose oil sending line coupling at engine block. Troops pushed jeep to start. Decided not to stop engine again. Heavy rain encountered only 10 miles from Crowley. M38 with no windshield wipers stopped under a bridge until the rain ceased. No major mishaps due to rain. Cloudy most of day, rain later afternoon. Mild temperatures. Hilly with some flat areas, all good paved surfaces. Made 115 miles in 8 hours. Arrived Crowley, TX at 1630.  The drive was to commemorate the 1919 Military Transcontinental Convoy. Prompted by the MVPA convoy in July, the Arrowhead MVPA Chapter wanted to do the same, especially for those who might not be able to make the full convoy later. As you can see from the report above, the trip read like a day in the original convoy. Trucks break down, engines have trouble. We were able to share about our jeeps and the time spent with repairs allowed us to get to know each other better. The drive was not about a destination, but about an idea. At our introductions many of the nine participants shared that they were veterans of US service, on from WWII. Many had service members that were honored by their jeeps. We all were drawn to honoring all US service men and women.  The troops were Gary and Daniel Hershberger, Waxahachie, TX. From Fort Worth, TX were  Ray Bridges, Andy Morris, Tom Hill, Brian Stanley, Dave Thompson, and Risa, Fort Worth. Finally Jesse and Tom Essary from Arlington, TX.  Some of these mismatched troops had never met, some had been friends for years, there was about 60 years span of ages … but none of that mattered. We were all fast friends bonded together by a desire to preserve military history. We shared repair parts, tools, stories and our time freely and without any care for anything going on around us. We had fun even with the occasional civilian driver that apparently owned the entire paved highway system and was showing us his superiority by zooming past us at “90” miles per hour on roads with no shoulders, up hill and in a no passing zone. We had a plan to let folks by, but they never stayed still long enough for us to get to the side of the road …. On a lighter note, the only honking that I recall was accompanied by a thumbs up and smiles all around from supporter. Many of the dozens of motorcyclist that passed us returned out happy waves and thumbs up as well.  We left folks with a handout about the days travels, a would be Stars And Stripes with articles about the original 1919 MTC and news about the local group and even an upcoming parade.  At luncheon a copy of the original handout for the final super in Sep. 1919 … a message from JW Willys on the back, was ready at each seat. The troops enjoyed it. While waiting on our meal the CO held mail call. A “love letter”, letters and photos from home and one whose greeting was “Dear Dirty Rotten Scoundrel” and returning his photo … that one left the dough boy available to flirt with the waitress which he did!  Sighted on the way, stuffed into a barn was an MB jeep … so they are still out there. Our 7 jeeps were well taken care of and soon to be stuffed back into their barns (garages). We saw the obvious cattle and horses, even mules. There were birds and buzzards and we even saw about 20 white tailed deer that had wandered close to the fence at an exotic animal ranch.  After the late rain there was no one left for the after convoy super. That, however did not detract from the wild day that we had. We did not experience dust storms, sand dunes or breaking through bridges as with the 1919 transcontinental convoy, but we all had a great time.   The stops along the route whether planned or impromptu were all used to our advantage to share. As can be seen with lunch we stayed at the restaurant for about 2 hours … time not seeming to pass as we talked and talked and talked.  This was not the largest convoy undertaken, but the troops enjoyed it just the same. Here is a break down of HMVs: Two jeeps were going on their first long trip (one was just restored), several jeeps were used for weekly short trips. There were 5 WWII jeeps all Ford GPWs, one Willys M38 and a Rolls Royce Champ (an experimental “jeep”). Four of the GPWs were driven to the convoy from home.   We are looking forward to another HMV convoy and hope to meet with other groups. I bet we will all have better foul weather gear next time.

Photos by Jesse Minton.

Lessons (re)learned on this trip:-        

1. Even if you think you have what you need or that the fan belt has been OK, things can break and you need some spares (belts, hoses, clamps, spark plugs, blubs etc.).

2. Have some spares and be ready to share them.

3. Carry oil, water, gas, grease etc. A funnel is handy or soda bottle will work with the bottom cut out.

4. Check your camera for film or the memory chip (the author forget his)

5. Have the battery fully charged … in the HMV and your camera ….

6. Swap batteries from the HMV with the poor charging system to one that works for a while.

7. Pack dry clothes and carry some sort of foul weather gear … a poncho laid on the ground to work under the vehicle is just a good as using it to shed rain.

8. Even with radios to communicate in the convoy things can go awry. Be patience and flexible … “Semper Gumby!” Have a plan and share it with others. Make decisions and be prepared to change the course of action based on the situation. E.g. Get out of the road so you don’t get run over, then fix the busted whatsit.

9. Call ahead to all the places that you are going to stop at … weeks before, the day before and hours before if things are going to change.

10. Don’t get caught up in the schedule to the point of not having fun or risking danger and change the schedule as the situation changes. To paraphrase General Dwight D. Eisenhower, “A plan is perfect until the first shot is fired, then everything goes out the window.”

 11 .    SHARE!

24-26 APR 09:    (St. Louis, MO) WWII Weekend 2009  - (by Steve L. Smith  - MVPA #1039 - Clarksville, AR)

This years World War Two Weekend at Jefferson Barracks Park in South St. Louis was a sight to behold.  Nearly 400 living history re-enactors, militaria collectors, and HMV owners converged on the historic park for the annual tribute to WWII.  After a four or five year wet spell, this years event was blessed with near perfect weather.  The huge Allied and Axis camps and MVPA vehicle display took up all the available space around the park visitors center.  It is estimated over twelve thousand spectators jammed the park for the two day event.  The spectators could walk through the living history camps, view the incredible weapon and militaria collections on display, and browse the MVPA vehicle display open to all era HMVs.  There were also three European theater battle reenactments during the weekend that were held on a large battlefield about a quarter mile from the camp area.  The mass movement of men and machines from the camp area to the battlefield  is one of the highlights of the weekend and a few lucky spectators got to ride along with the troops.  All three battles drew the largest crowds ever seen at the park and the re-enactors were thanked with applause and cheers at the conclusion of each.  The interest shown by the spectators was made very evident during the last battle on Sunday when a fire broke out on the dry grass, ignited by the pyrotechnics.  The battle was stopped in the middle and many of the reenactors rushed forward to battle the flames.  It was scary for several long minutes but the last bits of fire were stamped out just as the fire department arrived and cheers from the crowd rose above the commotion.  It became evident the crowd wasn’t going anywhere so the Allied and Axis troops returned to the their positions, picked up their weapons, and the battle was on again.  The Allies were once again victorious and the spectators cheered the conclusion of another fantastic, stupendous, incredible, WWII Weekend!  The sacrifices of the greatest generation have not been forgotten in St. Louis!

WWII Weekend is always held the last full weekend in April at historic Jefferson Barracks Park.  Don’t miss next years event sponsored by the 2^nd Ranger Battalion of St. Louis and the Mid-America Chapter MVPA.  For information:  www.2ndrangers.org or www.mid-americamvpa.org.

14 MAR 09:  (New Orleans) Field Trip of the Mid South MVPA to the WW2 Museum - (by Jeff Clark - Bartlett, TN)

Sixteen members of the Mid South Chapter met in New Orleans for a field trip to the National WWII Museum.  Our tour started at the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion in the main lobby.  When you first enter the lobby you’re greeted by veterans of WW2 and a host of warm and friendly guides and docents.  All of these fine people are volunteers.  There is an M4 Sherman tank standing guard there also!  After passing various displays of artillery (a German 88) and weapons of all description, we got a lecture from our tour guide at the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion.  Located to the left of the stage is a Higgins Landing Craft.  It was hard to look forward when directly above us was a C-47 hanging from the ceiling.  A Spitfire, Dauntless Dive Bomber, and other vintage aircraft loomed over us also.  There was so much to see that I will try to briefly describe the main sections of the tour.  First, we went through the area of The American Home Front, and then proceeded to the area of The Great Invasion of Europe.  It ended with the exhibits of The Pacific Theater of War.  The director of exhibitions, Tom Czekanski, then led us on a VIP tour of the buildings where they have vehicles and armor being stored for future exhibit in the new buildings under construction.  Our tour ended in the shop where they were in the process of restoring a PT boat.  Before we left, our chapter bought a brick to be located in the new building.  It will have Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee MVPA on it.  I must say that all of the volunteer staff was like walking encyclopedias of WW2.  I got a charter membership several years ago and it made me feel proud to see where my money went.  Every one of us left with an even stronger respect for the sacrifices that were made at home and abroad.  You can check this out online at www.nationalww2museum.org

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