After an incredible seven decades in Italy, a World War Ii-era Jeep returned to the Willys-Overland factory site in Toledo, OH recently- 70 years to the day that it rolled off production lines at the factory.
The off-roader is owned by Vittorio Argento, an Italian radio journalist and military vehicle enthusiast who shipped the restored vehicle overseas, then drove it from New Jersey to Toledo, where he parked in front of the Willys-Overland smokestack- the only part of the factory that remains today. The factory built around 650,000 units of the military vehicles during World War II. Though it can't be proven, Argento believes the vehicle saw combat duty.
It seems that though the original factory was flattened in 2006, the reclaimed industrial ground is perfect for showing how the special Jeep model can tackle rocky and rutted ground. When Argento got to the factory, he was greeted by city officials, who recently announced a new tenant for the 11-acre site, as well as a brand-new road. As Jim Tuschman, representative of the Port Authority board of directors, explains, "Keep an eye on this site, you're going to see some very exciting things happen as the Overland project will take its place in Toledo's history as a rebirth of an economic development asset for the community."1
It's heartwarming to celebrate the impact that the Jeep brand and its vehicles have had on America's history- even the unpleasant parts. Many people are of the opinion that Jeep vehicles helped the U.S. win the war, and they continue to impress drivers with their off-road capability today. Stop by McKinney Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep, located in Easley, SC and take one for a spin, yourself!
Source: 1http://www.toledoblade.com/Automotive/2013/06/04/70-years-later-Jeep-returns-for-spin-at-old-factory-home.html