UBB.threads Forums General Militaria United States Militaria Definitely not a dagger ...

Gentlemen,

this is not a dagger, though it could be interesting for some of us.

I'm in the South of France, to be more specific in Cannes, right now. Happily a friend of mine was able to find a genuine Willys Jeep from 1943 near the village of Macon.

This Jeep was left by the American troops back in '44 and since then used by a farmer family until now in the vineyards. Unfortunately these farmers applied a dark green color to the Jeep, but it is removable with Aceton. Beneath this color the Olive Drab is still present. Beside a few minor things we are looking on a barn find in original but heavily used condition. Frame and engine number are from 1943, so this is what we want.
This Willys Jeep is still in running condition, however there will be a lot of resto work on it.

Maybe some of you appreciate these indistinct photos. I'll keep you updated.

Best;
Hermann

Hermann,
Thank for sharing. What a beautiful barn find. Just don't see these still available (numbers matching) in the US anymore. Most have been restored to varying degrees. You mention it needs restoration. From the few photos it looks to be largely complete and unaltered (sans paint and a few minor items) providing for a solid foundation. As you know, parts are relatively easy to source as there is a strong following for these old workhorses.
Well done. I am also jeolous of your local.
Best regards
Rick

Wow that's a nice find!
A jeep has always been on my bucket list of items.
Sadly a friend of mine sold his 2 really nice restored ones but at the time I didn't have 2 nickles to rub together.

... thanks guys for jumping in.

Cannes is an interesting place. Beside the famous Festival du Film and all the stars, there are still some nice places. The Island St. Honorat for example. Cistercian monks are living there. We had a three hours walk there.
A few yards away - German bunkers.

On the island Marguerite the Man with the Iron Mask was imprisoned.

The last photo is from Macon, where this Willys lived on a farm.

Thanks for looking
Best;
Hermann