Historic Military Convoy Recreated

The Military Vehicle Preservation Association is recreating a historic convoy that crossed the United States in 1920. They’re going through what remains of the Bankhead highway, which includes some local roads. With vehicles as old as WWII, members said the convoy is a way to bring history directly to people.

“A lot of people will restore a military vehicle and then put it on a pedestal in a museum; that’s not what we’re about. We’re about bringing these vehicles to the public and running them exactly the way the army did,” said Dan McClusky, a U.S. Army veteran.

The convoy runs with a core of about 35 vehicles, and about 100 people all working together to get everything across the nation.

“We’re seeing moving history here. There are a lot of books, of course, written on WWII and WWI and Vietnam and all that, but it’s seeing the moving history what’s bringing the crowds out,” said Australian Army veteran Michael O’Sullivan.

The convoy drove through most of El Paso County using Alameda Ave, and stopped at Bowie High School for lunch, where the JROTC program hosted them.

“It’s nice to see that everybody can gather as a community and be here for the veterans, and have our cadets come and support them so they can feel welcome not only to El Paso but to the Bowie community,” said Veronica Rodriguez of the Bowie JROTC.

After their lunch and a warm El Paso welcome, the convoy set off again on its journey

The 29 day voyage is set to conclude next Saturday when it reaches San Diego.

The convoy is resting at the Roadrunner RV Park in Deming Sunday, and can be tracked through online through this map.