Military Vehicle Preservation Association

Military Vehicle Preservation Association
Name	Military Vehicle Preservation Association
Founded	1976
Location	United States
Focus	Historic military vehicle preservation
Website	www.mvpa.org

Military Vehicle Preservation Association. Founded in 1976, it is a leading international organization dedicated to the acquisition, restoration, preservation, and operation of historic military vehicles. The association serves as a central hub for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts, promoting educational outreach and the historical significance of military transportation. Its membership spans across the United States and numerous other countries, fostering a global community united by this specialized interest.

History

The organization was established in 1976 by a group of collectors in the Midwestern United States, responding to a growing interest in preserving vehicles from World War I, World War II, and later conflicts. Early activities were centered around informal gatherings and the exchange of technical information, as many vehicles were being discovered as surplus or in scrapyards. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, it expanded significantly, paralleling increased public interest in living history and the historic vehicle hobby. Key milestones included the establishment of a formal magazine and the growth of a national network of regional chapters, which helped standardize practices and connect members across great distances.

Organization and governance

The association is governed by a democratically elected Board of Directors, which includes officers such as the President, Vice President, and Secretary. Operational management is handled by appointed committees focusing on areas like legislation, safety standards, and event planning. The national headquarters coordinates with a vast network of regional chapters, each with its own local leadership, while adhering to the overall bylaws and mission. This structure ensures consistent advocacy on issues like vehicle registration and access to National Archives records, while allowing chapters autonomy for local activities.

Activities and events

A primary activity is organizing and sponsoring numerous public and private events throughout the year. These include large national conventions, often held in conjunction with major airshows or at historic sites like Fort Knox or Camp Grayling, which feature vehicle displays, tactical demonstrations, and historic reenactments. Members frequently participate in Veterans Day parades, memorial ceremonies at locations like the National World War II Memorial, and educational displays for schools and museums. Competitive events such as convoy rallies, obstacle courses, and preservation awards are also central to the calendar, promoting both camaraderie and technical skill.

Vehicle collection and restoration

The collective holdings of the membership represent one of the largest assemblages of historic military vehicles in private hands, encompassing armor, soft-skin vehicles, and artillery from numerous nations and eras. Restoration philosophy emphasizes historical accuracy, often requiring extensive research into original War Department technical manuals and procurement of period-correct components from specialized suppliers. Common projects involve iconic vehicles like the Willys MB Jeep, the Dodge WC series, the M4 Sherman, and transports like the GMC CCKW. These restored vehicles provide tangible links to pivotal conflicts such as the Normandy landings, the Battle of the Bulge, and the Vietnam War.

Publications and media

The flagship publication is *Army Motors*, a quarterly magazine featuring in-depth technical articles, restoration profiles, historical research, and news from chapters worldwide. The association also publishes specialized handbooks, parts interchange guides, and a comprehensive roster of members. Digital outreach is maintained through an official website and active forums, which serve as vital resources for troubleshooting and parts locating. Furthermore, members and the organization often contribute to documentaries produced by networks like the History Channel and provide vehicles for major film productions, such as those by Steven Spielberg.

Affiliated groups and chapters

The organization's strength is derived from its extensive chapter system, with groups established in nearly every U.S. state, as well as in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. These chapters, such as the Heart of America Chapter or the Great Lakes Chapter, organize local meetings, workshops, and shows. The association maintains strong ties with other historical groups, including the Historical Vehicle Association, various branches of the United States Armed Forces historical divisions, and museums like the National Museum of the United States Army and the Imperial War Museum.

Category:Historical societies based in the United States Category:Military history organizations Category:Vehicle restoration