Related by Marriage: The Jeep

Many Displaced Persons—like my Dad—had a lifelong fascination with the "Jeep" vehicle. They associated Jeeps with the U.S. Army under whose watch they lived in post-war Germany. The DPs looked upon Jeeps as symbols of modern life, freedom, and prosperity.

I'll bet Mr. Irene's Dad was especially proud when, as a Private in the U.S. Army, he got the chance to drive a Jeep.

Camp Irwin, Barstow, California, July 25, 1951. Mr. Irene's Dad sent this snapshot to his brother, Ignas. On the back he wrote, "Brother!! I have pulled up to my barracks."

Thanks to Mr. Irene's Los Angeles Cousin for making this photo available to us.