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Once again, I must inform the membership of the passing of a member. Don Miller was an enthusiastic member who had two beautiful frame-off restoration vehicles. He will be remembered at several of Paul Cook’s party with the unstoppable 1919 machine gun. He had a beautiful 2 ½ ton army truck and an immaculate M-37 pickup. His museum quality displays will be missed greatly.

The Big Shoot at Stan’s was blessed with beautiful weather. However, the weeks preceding rainstorms left a great challenge at the bottom of the hill. A small mud bog (which guards the entrance to our mountain trail) could not be crossed. I was the first one in with a M-151 and was barely able to back out. Next to try, was Barry Conwell in his M-38 with a winch. He made it across bog one only to face bog two. Rob White also tried with his M-38 V8 and he, too, had to winch himself to freedom. Next to try, was Frank Tynnis, with his diesel Jeep. It too, had to be winched to freedom. And the ultimate challenger, a late model Humvee, also went down in defeat. 2019 will be remembered as the year the mountain won. Fortunately, we were able to take out our frustrations at the rifle range. For the first time in a couple of years, my .50 cal. (M-2 Browning legally converted to semi-automatic machine gun) performed beautifully. Dabney’s M-60 was a star performer as were several others. Barry Conwell did a great job of preparing the site and feeding the entire troop. Thank you, Barry Conwell! We were joined by several new members who failed to note the sign-up sheet. Never the less, a good time was had by all!

Most importantly, at the Big Shoot, Mary McGuire (Stan’s wife) agreed to take on the responsibilities of treasurer until our elections in January. I am so grateful to have her help in this important job. As you know, the treasurer conducts the elections as well as monetary responsibilities for the club. Thank you, Mary!

I am negotiating with Bill Gagnon’s next of kin to allow the VAMVA to dispose of his Jeeps and toys. He has several M-38 A1s, an M-151, and six late model civilian Jeeps. If you have ever been in his house, you know he has a tremendous collection of toy vehicles and models. This will be an opportunity for members to purchase a military Jeep. Some members have already pledged help and will get first choice on the vehicles. More details to come after a final deal is made. Please, if you are interested in helping, let me know as soon as possible. This will require a tremendous amount of work on the part of the club.

Several years ago, the club voted to purchase a wrecker. Dabney was able to locate the perfect vehicle and we are in the process of closing the deal. Also, we may have another M-934 5-ton cargo truck for sale.

Next Saturday, we have been asked to display at Mission BBQ from 10 am – 2 pm. Those that bring a military vehicle will be provided with lunch.  

The annual VFW Memorial Day vehicle display will take place from 2 pm – 5 pm on Monday, May 27. This event will take place at Ashland VFW Post 10657 (11568 Cedar Lane). Food will be provided and donations would be gladly appreciated.

We have been invited to supply vehicles to the National Memorial Day parade in Washington D.C. Please see the letter below from Jim Fisher for contact information and parade details:

“Good afternoon Gentlemen

Since we have a good size contingent of veterans riding in the National Memorial Day Parade this year, I am in need of trying to secure 1/4T Jeeps, 3/4T open bed trucks and 21/2 T truck. These vehicles will carry Korean War Veterans during the Parade. 

If any of you know of individuals who would like to participate in the National Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 27, 2019 from 11:30AM to 3:00PM please give them my contact information.  I will be happy to reimburse them for their time.

Thank you!

Jim Fisher

Cell 703-740-7596”

Looking ahead, I am looking for a major turnout (10+ vehicles) for the Rassawek Vineyard Display. This is a sponsored event. We will be bringing the M-20 and all of the WWII and Korean War Jeeps we can muster. All military vehicles are welcomed, however. Unlike most static displays, we will have the opportunity to drive through the vineyards in formation (parade). This is a fabulous place to hold an event. The planners had over 5000 spectators last year and expect more this year. See also the website for more details about the Spring Jubilee event: http://rassawek.com/rassawek-spring-jubilee/welcome/.

2019 Calendar

·         May 17-18: Finley, Ohio – Military Flee market

·         May 18: Mission BBQ – 10 am – 2pm Display

·         May 27: Memorial Day – 2 pm – 5 pm Military Vehicle Display Only at VFW Post 10657

·         May 27 – June 1: Vietnam Helicopter Pilot Convention in Kansas City, MO

·         June 1 – 2: Rassawek Vineyard Display: Honoring WWII Veterans - Saturday – 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday – 11 am – 5 pm

·         August 30, 31: Graves Mountain Lodge

·         September 13, 14, 15: Somerset Pasture Party

·         September 20, 21, 22: Field Days of the Past

Richard A. Crane

President

804-241-8182

Racrane020146@earthlink.net