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This Jeep is a Hybrid, i.e., a Ford built on a Willys frame. The serial numbers stamped on the original data plate and the frame, match (GPW 7559). The Jeep is named VADA in honor of Bluford Smith, a Trooper with the 106th Cavalry Group, WW2. His jeep was named VADA for his wife, Helen Vada Smith. Bluford provided radio services for all the vehicles in the 106th Cav. The unit bumper markings on my Jeep are:
[ 7A-106C *o B13 ].
The Jeep is an outstanding driver and when on display is shown as a typical WW2 Cavalry Recon Vehicle. An added dimension of the Jeep on display are the over 100 original combat photos of the 106th Cav in action in France, Belgium, Germany, and Austria. The display brings the Jeep to life. Typical armament for the Cavalry in WW2 included, Jeeps (referred to as Bantams in the 106th written history), Greyhounds (M8 armored cars), Assault Guns, and light Tanks. In the case of my Jeep, the Cavalry rides again.
