In honor of Military Appreciation Month, San Diego Automotive Museum unveiled its latest exhibit, “Salute to San Diego’s Troops,” featuring two legendary military combat vehicles, a 1942 Willys MB Jeep and 1985 Humvee.
The exhibit’s centerpiece, a 1942 Willys MB Jeep, was generously donated by a local World War II history buff and Navy veteran. Servicemembers, both past and present, are invited to sign their names on a designated Willys Jeep Hood. Alongside the 1942 Willys MB Jeep is a 1985 Humvee on loan from Camp Pendleton. These two iconic vehicles represent the spirit of resilience and courage displayed by servicemembers throughout history.
San Diego is home to all major branches of the US military, contributing to the city’s industries, population, economic growth, and infrastructure.
As a tribute to the nation’s active-duty military and their families, the San Diego Automotive Museum participates in the Blue Star Museum program. From Armed Forces Day on May 20th to Labor Day on September 4th, free admission is granted to active-duty military personnel and their families, including Coast Guard, National Guard, and Reserve members. Proper identification is required, and the servicemember need not be present. The museum is open on Memorial Day, May 29.
The San Diego Automotive Museum showcases a diverse collection of cars and motorcycles, ranging from classic and vintage models to rare vehicles that are no longer in production. In addition to the “Salute to San Diego’s Troops” exhibition, the San Diego Automotive Museum offers a wide array of other exhibits. From the “Innovative Electrics” display to “Louie Mattar’s Fabulous Car,” Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles, “West Coast Customs,” “San Diego Lowriders,” and “The Plank Road,” there’s something for every automotive enthusiast to enjoy.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
