In September of 1940, the American Bantum Car Company submitted a design in response to the American Invitation for Bids. The Army recognized the value of this design immediately and contracted Willy’s and Ford to improve upon the design and manufacture it at the beginning of World War II. The simple and strong design made the jeep, as the vehicle came to be called, invaluable on the battle field. Its original purpose was reconnaissance, but it became used for a large variety of purposes, including weapons platform, ambulance, troop transport, equipment hauler, tractor, railroad locomotive. The jeep is still used today in both the military and civilian life. It is one of the oldest and most beloved American automotive designs.

*Picture from http://www.postaljeep.com/dj3a.gif

Chart of Military Jeeps. Accessed April 13, 2004: <http://www.olive-drab.com/od_mvg_vehicle_id_jeeps.php3>