Red Ballin' Thru the Ozarks

Hosted by the Arkansas "MV" Travelers - 03 May 2008

Updated:  20 JUN 08

THE RED BALL CONVOY'S IS A SUCCESS. 

2008 Comments after the Convoy

The following comments were gathered from the returned comment forms, e-mails and letters received after the completion of "Red Ballin' Thru the Ozarks"

1. Did you have a good time?  "Great!!"; "Very Good Time!"; "yes!!!"; "yes"; "Great"; "Most definitely--yes, yes"; "excellent"; "Great!"  "We certainly did"; "Great"; "Wonderful - so nice to enjoy the ride in our jeeps"; "Yes, Very much so".

2. How was the convoy?  Too short/too long, other?  "Just Right"; "I thought it was just about perfect"; "Very Good"; "It was about right for a days drive along with the pit stops"; "Just right - it was good to have a little time from the end of the convoy before dinner"; "Perfect mileage, traffic and number of breaks, length of breaks - all good.  Didn't feel rushed.  Great visitation with others".

3. Generally speaking, how was the route?  "Kind of curvy, but a challenge"; "I enjoyed the scenery, the variety and the interesting stops"; "fun - enjoyed Lake Wedington - need 30 minutes longer for lunch, for a nap - maybe 1 hour at the Air Museum"; "well pleased - not too many starts and stops in traffic"; "Beautiful"; "Beautiful scenery - pit stops excellent - Time for socializing, fellowship and relaxing greatly appreciated" "I thought it was very good"; "I thought the route and scenery was beautiful"; "Beautiful -  flowers, homes, valleys and hills were so nice.  Scenery was great.  I especially liked the stop at Prairie Grove - the battlefield and the Heritage Garden with the open kettle fires."; "Good, stay out of the metro areas.  Stay out of traffic.  Paved roads are necessary.  Scenery was good."

4. Would a more hilly route be acceptable?  "OK"; "Yes, no problem"; "Don't care, if all can handle"; "yes"; "O.K."; "yes"; "yes"; "could be, hills were fine with my jeep"; "yes - better for the jeeps than 2 1/2 tons, might slow them down a bit." "Yes, hills not an issue".

5.  What can we do to improve the Convoy in coming years?  Keeping in mind, we expect to change the route each year.  "I would like to have had a brief guided tour of (Prairie Grove Battle Field) from a park interpreter - 30 minutes or so."; "It was great"; "if there are more hills, put the big trucks in the front so they  can get a running start"; "10 degrees more heat"; "it looks like it might need some security in the parking lot"; "Can't imagine";  "Keep having it.  Name tags would be nice. A mixer on Friday evening to get to know each other better before the Saturday convoy".

6. Do you think you will join us next year?  All "yes", "Absolutely, if in good health and all is well"; "hopefully, I will be there"  "Yes" -5 times.

7. Would you like it to be a more rural/country route?  "which ever is fine";  "rural/country preferred for no traffic - like country roads and small towns"; "maybe - less traffic"; "doesn't matter"; "yes, but today was fine"; "that would be nice"; "the route on this convoy went thru some rural residence.  The folks there, I think, enjoyed watching us pass by.  So some of this type I believe is good for the convoy."  "That is OK as long as not many dirt roads"; "rural.  Stay out of metro and U.S. Highways.  Stay on less traveled roads".

8. Give us your general comments:  "I think this was very well organized and I applaud Jerome Casey, Marsha Jones, and Dan Sharon!"; "We had a great time.  I think if the route sticks to back roads and avoids traffic, it reduces the stress on drivers, vehicles and the convoy leaders.  I love to explore areas I haven't been adn I saw a lot of that today, which makes me want to come back.  Great Job, Thank You!"; "A great time!  Thank you for all your work.  Very good written communications!   Marsha was terrific!!! - A great hostess";  "Had a good time - I hope to come again next year.  Thanks for everything!"; "Everything was good.  People were nice.  Weather was good but very cool in the morning.  Be nice toget a dash plaque for the event.  Great Event!  Thanks"; "I think an enormous amount of behind the scenes planning, organizing, and work must have gone on before the first jeep ever left the hotel.  Thank you for a very enjoyable day!"; "I forgot to say how good the food was! Thank you!"; "I think the route you guys put together the second time, since the 1st one got flooded out, was a good route - thru the parks, hills and country.  We really enjoyed participating man meeting you all."; "Was heartwarming to visit the Veterans' Home.  Traffic to and from was usual Friday afternoon busy.  The Motel was much better than most and at a good rate.  Accommodations very satisfactory.  Jerome, you and Marsha did all the work and we enjoyed everything.  You both did a great job!  Thank you!"; "Name tags with location, vehicle group represented,  Beginning mixer to get to know others.  End - banquet.  Recognize those that traveled from home - oldest vehicle - newest vehicle, etc.  Report of the day - mechanical problems, miles traveled, number of vehicles involved.  Need a traffic escort - Should have recognized Joe sharing his jeeps.  Deligate duties/tasks as much as possible - such as Becky Chartan offered to lead the mixer.";  "Name Tags"

CONTACTS -- If you have any questions concerning the convoy please contact one of the following:

1. Jerome Casey:   479.444.8990  sarge@dicksonstreet.com

2. Dan Sharon:      479.855.7499   camera_dan@hotmail.com

3. Paul Harless:     501.727.5530  plheh@cyberback.com

The AR MV Travelers would like to thank those that helped make the Red Ball Convoy a successful run.  The second annual Red Ball Convoy will take place May 2009.  The rules are much the same and we plan to reserve again at the Clarion Hotel, if arrangements can be worked out.  Photos of the Friday events are posted in the photo gallery.  Pictures of the Convoy and other events will be posted as soon as possible.  This years convoy route had to be changed just a few weeks before the convoy due to flooding and the closure of some roads.  The 2009 Convoy will use the original route planned for this year.

• Bring any era military vehicle that can handle steep grades on paved surface

• Uniform is not required, but would be appreciated for the era of your vehicle

• Planned stops at points of interest and historical sites

• Evening Dinner after convoy

• Possible evening entertainment, May 2nd and May 3rd (depending on interest and availability)

• Space available for those that would like to bivouac

• Host hotel is the Clarion of Fayetteville.  It has reasonable rates. ($45.00 + taxes) You need to make your reservation as early as possible. You will need to mention the AR MVPA Red Ballin' Convoy to get the lower rates.  If the Clarion fills up the Red Roof Inn has back up rooms at $49.99 + taxes (These special rates can be obtained if you mention the MVPA Red Ballin' Convoy.)
  Clarion Hotel   479-521-1166   Red Roof Inn 479-442-3041
   

Required Forms (registration, release from liability etc.) and fees to cover costs are attached.  Just click on  the Application Forms button above.

The theme for this convoy is based on the "Red Ball Express" of WWII fame.

North West Arkansas CONVOY, SPRING 2008. Duplication permitted.

Objective: Complete the mission

Mission: Moving a number of military vehicles by convoy through the Ozark Mountains on a one-day trail ride.

Operations Officer: Jerome Casey

Operations Registration: Marsha Jones

Operations Team: Dan Sharon, Bill Thorne, Lewis Anderson and others

Operation Requirements: Trail intersections marked with an approved RED BALL marker; REST STOPS no longer than one hour between stops, at least 15 minute breaks

SUPPORT: at least one recovery vehicle with trailer, fuel, water, tools, oil and jump cables to follow the convoy. Lead vehicle, each platoon leader and tail vehicle to have communications.

Activities: (temporary plans for 2009)

Thursday: early camping

Friday: early arrivals may want to participate in a visit to a local VA Hospital

• 1800 Hrs: Operations Briefing with platoon leaders and other ops personnel
• 1900 Hrs: Welcome meeting for attendees; Registration; tee shirt sales; snacks and beverages served
• 2000 Hrs: showing of Red Ball Express movie

Saturday:

• 0730 Hrs: Vehicle line-up; safety inspection; late registrations and final briefing
• 0800 Hrs: Convoy departs
• 1200-1300 Hrs: Lunch Break
• 1700-1800 Hrs: Clean up and prepare for evening meal after convoy return
• 1800 Hrs: Supper meal (BBQ)
• 1930 Hrs: Closing; Evening entertainment (possible movie or dance)

• Pre-paid registration fee per person
• Vehicle- Proper registration and proof of insurance; safety requirements (i.e. brakes and lights)
• Release from liability form signed
• Tee shirts paid for and delivered
• Pre-paid meal tickets if required (note - box lunch will be included in pre-registration fee)
• This event will be covered by MVPA liability insurance

Mission Objectives:

Convoy from Fayetteville through various small communities of northwest Arkansas along scenic byways returning to origin

Socialize with other members of ARMVPA and MVPA

Most importantly: Have a good time!

Mission Profile:

Depart Airways Freight parking lot at approximately 0800 hrs.

All convoy rules apply: keep right, speed determined by slowest vehicle, keep in communication

Scheduled stops: Pea Ridge Military Park; War Eagle Mill; Fayetteville Veteran’s Hospital

Other stops as necessary or requested

First and last vehicles at a minimum will have 2-way radio communications

Advisories:

Please study this dossier before departing on the convoy. Be familiar with the route, landmarks and other pertinent information.

Mileage and time figures are approximate. GPS coordinates are included where possible.

Photos of important landmarks are included for reference purposes.

This convoy is open to all military vehicles of any era and nationality. Our goal is to provide an enjoyable event for all involved. The actual convoy will be on 3 May. Participants are certainly welcome to arrive early and enjoy the area and socialize. Further information is provided below.

Hotel: The host hotel is The Clarion Hotel in Fayetteville, AR. We recommend you utilize this hotel as registration will be held here and the convoy departs from this location. The Clarion is located on the access road southwest of the intersection of Hwy 540 and Hwy 62 and offers a number of amenities including restaurant, swimming pool and hot tub for those who may be interested. There are also a number of eateries nearby.

Camping and RV Parking: for those wishing to camp or have RV’s there are campgrounds and RV parks available. Details on locations of these facilities will be included later in this guide in tabular form. Please note those who are interested in ‘roughing’ or who have self-supporting RV’s are welcome to utilize land owned by one of our members. This information is in the table as well.

Registration: We very strongly recommend pre-registering for this event. This is to allow us to plan for the number and type of vehicles, number of participants, meals. However, please check in at the registration desk during the posted times so we can verify information and allow for efficient operations. The registration tables will be located in the central area of the main hotel near the pool. Registration will be open from 1900 to 2100 on Friday, 2 May and 0630 to 0730 on Saturday, 3 May. Registration will close promptly at 0730 on 3 May to allow for convoy assembly. We strongly recommend pre-registration but walk-ups won’t be turned away.

Welcome Meeting: Friday, 2 May beginning at 1900 hrs. This is an excellent time to meet new folks, catch up with folks you haven’t seen in a while and socialize. Snacks and drinks will be available. T-shirt sales will be open as well.

Friday night movie: Showing of the Red Ball Express movie will begin at 2000 hrs in one of the meeting rooms of the hotel. The location of the movie will be posted at the registration tables.

Vending or selling of items and equipment: There is no practical location for this activity. However, if you have something in or on your convoy or tow vehicle for sale you’re welcome to make it known.

Uniforms: None are required. You are welcome to wear any uniform you desire as long as it is in a respectful manor regardless of what ever nationality it may be. Again, uniforms are not required to participate in this event.

Dress Code: There is none, however, common sense is the rule. Many of you will be travelling in open vehicles. Plan for changes in weather as it is spring time in the Ozarks and the weather can change. Dress in layers as it will likely be cool in the morning and can be considerably warmer in the afternoon. You may want to wear eye protection in the form of glasses or goggles in open vehicles. Bring a poncho or rain gear just in case.

Weapons: De-milled weapons are welcome. Functional weapons and firearms are not necessary. Do not bring functional weapons on the convoy. Dummy weapons and ammo are fine. Personal weapons, knives, bayonets and similar items can cause problems so please leave them behind.

Fueling: Be sure your convoy vehicle is fueled prior to the event. Plan on having a range of at least 150 miles. The convoy route is approximately 110 miles but a little reserve is a good idea. If you have a jerry can it would be a good idea to have some petrol in it just for insurance. All vehicles should have adequate range to make the entire route without making a fuel stop with the possible exception of a motorcycle. There will be opportunities for those folks with motorcycles should there be any need to refuel along the way. However, please advise registration staff prior to convoy assembly so we can accommodate you being located near to someone who can carry a jerry can for you or make arrangements.

Safety: Is of utmost concern. You know your vehicle better than anyone. Keep adequate distance between you and the vehicle ahead to allow for safe stops. Wear safety glasses or goggles if necessary. The entire route is on paved roads, however, stray gravel, road debris and foreign objects on the route are always possible.

We strongly suggest you have water for drinking in your vehicle. Snacks or any medications you may require should be available in your vehicle as well.

Keep items secure in your vehicle as well as any empty water bottles, candy wrappers, etc. We don’t want anything blowing out of your vehicle for the vehicle behind you to run over, get hit with. The only evidence of our passing should be good memories and photographs.

Vehicles should be equipped with an operational fire extinguisher that has been recently checked for proper function. Remember, dry chemical fire extinguishers have a tendency to settle over time. Make sure they will function when called upon if necessary.

Vehicles: All vehicles must be military. They can be from any military from any nation but must be military.

Passengers: In the event you are hitching a ride in someone else’s vehicle please be mindful of their vehicle. Take care to enter and exit the vehicle carefully and not have any pens, pencils or other items in your pockets or on your person that may scratch, puncture or damage vehicles.

Assembly: Convoy participants must be in the assembly area no later than 0700 on 3 May. Vehicle line up will begin at 0730. Drivers should be in or next to their vehicles no later than 0715. Please do not line up until directed to do so or drive around the assembly area until directed to do so. This will assist in an orderly and safe departure.

Communications: Designated convoy vehicles will have vehicle-to-vehicle communications. If you are in a party which has multiple vehicles it is beneficial to have communications capability. Of course, any vehicles that have compatible radio communications are beneficial.

Convoy Assembly: the convoy assembly will be determined by the platoon leaders. They will try to accommodate everyone’s wishes as much as possible but keep in mind they may have to move vehicles around for efficiency and safety.

Convoy Speed: Depending upon individual roads convoy speeds will vary from 20 mph to 40 mph. The slower vehicles will also be a factor in this. Be aware of the vehicle in front and behind you. Don’t follow to close and do try to allow enough space behind you particularly when approaching uphill grades to allow large vehicles to gain a little momentum. Avoid stopping on uphill grades if at all possible. If you see a vehicle stopping it is better to stop at the base of a hill rather than on it.

Spacing and road manners: on sections of the route on two-lane roads leave enough space between you and the vehicle ahead of you for civilian vehicles to safely pass. On four lane roads close up spacing and keep to the right. The only time we will travel in the left lane of four lane roads will be when we approaching a left hand turn to another road. Try to maintain your speed as consistently as possible to avoid vehicles having to constantly adjust their speed. Some of this is unavoidable but if we can keep this to a minimum it will be helpful.

Vehicle licenses and Insurance: All vehicles must be properly licensed and insured for travel on public roads. Please have these documents on your person or in your vehicle at all times during the convoy.

Breakdowns: if a vehicle breaks down we will have a support vehicle assist you. Please stay with your vehicle until the support vehicle arrives and arrangements have been made. Make sure your vehicle is off the roadway if possible. If it is impossible to move the vehicle off the roadway dismount the vehicle and wait in a safe area.

In order to avoid as many mechanical issues as possible please check fuel, oil & coolant levels as well as function of the vehicle as thoroughly as possible before the convoy assembles.

Camping Information:  

Jerome Casey has acreage available for bivouac (tent camp) or RV’s that are self-contained (no hookups or dumping available). If you have an RV that is self-contained (water, generator, etc) you are welcome to park here at no charge. This area is approximately 6 miles from the hotel and is conveniently located.  A port-a-potty will be set up for those camping.  Contact Jerome for directions if you plan to camp there:  479.444.8990  sarge@dicksonstreet.com

• Lake Wedington Campground - Approximately 8 miles from hotel 
  http://www.fs.fed.us/oonf/ozark/recreation/lake_wedington/lake_wedington.html
• Devil’s Den Campground - Approximately 20 miles from hotel 
  http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/park-finder/  Devil's Den has a menu item for RV Travelers.