There are so many reasons to celebrate our U.S. Military. The courage these brave men and women of our military make every day is thankfully, one issue our entire country can get behind and support. With Jeep’s very existence owed entirely to the U.S. Military, they never forget to call attention to and honor our soldiers both abroad and in the States.
Jeep has been creating Limited Editions, including a new 2016 Jeep Wrangler, to commemorate not only the Wranglers decorated past, but also to honor the traditions set by soldiers on the bases worldwide where Jeeps are still the main source of transportation.
Jeep even offers a special military discount to soldiers and veterans who have made many sacrifices to serve our country. In all that America and Jeep has to be thankful for in our U.S. military, honoring and servicing our soldiers is something every American can get behind and continue to support.
The Jeep Wrangler: A Brief History
It was during the eve of WWII when two vehicle manufacturers were contracted by the U.S. government to produce a lightweight, all-terrain, reconnaissance vehicle that could be used on battlefields. By 1941, the very first Jeep was introduced to and became property of the U.S. military.
Immediately, Jeeps were sent to both the European and the Pacific fronts to further our campaigns against the Axis. Because of Jeep’s off-roading capabilities that are still recognized and highly celebrated today, the Allies were able to move and transport soldiers, medical and artillery supplies with a speed and versatility that had not been seen before. So impressed with how the Jeep aided the Allied troops during WWII, General Marshall called the Jeep, “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare.”
Because of the successes Jeep had on the battlefields of each war since WWII, it’s not surprising that soldiers have taken comfort in the popularity of the Jeep and started driving them in their civilian life. Now, Jeeps are just as popular and versatile today as they were in their beginnings. Deeply ingrained in American culture and highly celebrated, driving and owning a Jeep is taking part in an American tradition to overcome any obstacle and not to let anything stand in your way.
Like us all, Jeep is indebted to the brave men and women who’ve served this country. These special editions are reminders of that. As you start looking for Jeeps, remember that Jeeps are part of an American tradition that represents progression and the ability to overcome anything.
From Willys Overland CJ-2A to Willy’s Wheeler
You may or may not have heard about Jeep’s recent edition, Willys Wheeler. Having only been in circulation a little more than a year now, it’s an homage to the original WWII civilian Jeeps.
During the second world war, “Willys”, and Willys-Overland CJ-2A (Civilian Jeep), first appeared on to the market in 1945. The 2015 Willys Wheeler harkens back to this 1940’s era when Eisenhower was powering through Europe and unstoppable in the Jeep.
Looking at it, the Willys Wheeler looks like a Wrangler Sport. Truthfully, they’re very similar. The Willys Wheeler takes the Sport platform and adds a whole host of nostalgic and updated goodies to celebrate the original ‘go anywhere’ attitude.
Mixing the Old with the New
Goodies like a Dana 44 rear axle with Trac-Lok limited-slip differential with a 3.73 ratio and Jeep Command-Trac part-time, AWD system has a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio for when you’re ready to take rock climbing to the next level. Power is transferred to the road, trail or creek via 17-inch aluminum BF Goodrich KM Mud Terrain LT255/75R17 tires that offer incredible traction through the thickest mud and hardest crawls. Bolted directly to the frame to add body strength are rock rails which protect the undercarriage and for a finishing touch: Jeep Trail Rated Kit that includes a D-Ring, tow strap and gloves all that come in a Jeep-branded bag.
Also present for any off-roading trips are the grab handles, lovingly referred to as, ahem, well you’ll know if you ever have to use them (it’s what you’re likely to exclaim if you find yourself gripping one). Jeep ready Mopar floor mats act more like catch all trays protecting the floor ready to collect all the dirt, mud, snow and rocks that are likely to end up there if you’re using your Jeep properly.
Keeping its iconic seven-slot front grille that’s flanked by two round headlights, its’ gloss black finish is also appears on the appliques that cover the front and rear bumpers. Jeep’s iconic half doors are also available for purchase.
What would a special edition Jeep be without its decals? “Willys” decals don the side of the hood while the tailgate gets a 1940’s-esque satin-black “4 Wheel Drive” decal.
Freedom Wrangler Unlimited: Let Freedom Ring
Because Jeep’s history is deeply embedded in American military, it should come as no surprise that there is an edition celebrating all that our brave soldiers of the U.S. military fight to protect; our freedom. Jeep pays tribute to the proud men and women who make up our armed forces with the 2016 Wrangler Unlimited Freedom Edition.
Because the Jeep Wrangler is so versatile and capable it’s still used on American bases all over the world. Soldiers have so enjoyed their on and off-road capabilities that it is not uncommon to see soldiers and veterans alike driving them in their civilian life. So Jeep set out to make the Freedom edition as comfortable and familiar as possible for the American enlisted and returning soldiers.
Featuring some key elements like a premium Sunrider soft top that gives the Freedom edition a unique look while providing superior functionality. The durable top is rain proof for the spring time and is easy to lower for the days when the summer air is necessary for top-down driving.
On the Move with Oscar Mike
To honor military code, there is an Oscar Mike badge. “Oscar Mike” for those not-in-the-know, is code. In the military phonetic alphabet, “O” stands for Oscar and “M” stands for Mike. Together they indicate “On the Move”; perfect for Jeeps. Strategically placed Freedom decals are placed on the hood, fender, driver cowl and passenger rear quarter panel identifying this edition from every angle.
Powered by Jeep’s powerful 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and featuring their Command-Trac 4×4 System, the Freedom also comes with hill descent control and has Trail Rated Capabilities.
Jeep’s Military Incentive Program
Did you know that if you’ve served in the military, you may be eligible for Jeep’s Military Incentive program? In an effort to show appreciation and gratitude to our brave men and women who’ve served in the US military, Jeep offers $500 Military Bonus Cash on select purchases and leases on 2014, 2015 and new vehicles. Eligibility is a must, but if you’re Active, Active Reserved, Retired Military, Retired Military Reserve or are an honorably discharged veteran, you are already eligible for this program. If you happen to be stationed overseas, you may be entitled to even more incentives.
Jeep understands and appreciates the sacrifices that soldiers and their families make every single day. It takes so much more than the average person is willing to give. That’s why Jeep does what it can to make that life a little easier. The services soldiers provide requires the commitment from all of us to help make it better.
