By The National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, is gearing up for a heartfelt tribute to veterans with a special exhibit that highlights the history and evolution of military vehicles. This year’s exhibit, set to open just before Veterans Day, promises to be even more comprehensive than last year’s, capturing both the stories of iconic military vehicles and the personal experiences of veterans themselves.
A Tribute to Veterans and Their Vehicles
While the final pieces for the exhibit, including a Humvee, were still arriving on Wednesday, it’s clear the museum is committed to honoring those who served. The exhibit showcases military vehicles spanning decades, with notable pieces like a 1945 Ford GPW, a 1943 amphibious Jeep (known as the “Seep”), and of course, a modern-day HUMVEE.
Phil MacDougall, President of the National Automobile Museum, shared his excitement about the more personal nature of this year’s show. “It’s not just about the vehicles this time,” MacDougall explained. “We’re going to capture our veterans’ stories, too. They’ll talk about lost loved ones, and what it means to be a patriot.” The exhibit is designed to be a living history lesson, a place where visitors can connect not only with the machines but also with the men and women who used them.
The Vehicles and Their Stories
Each vehicle tells a part of the story of American military history, and for veterans who have seen them in action, these machines hold powerful memories. Bill Petty, a Navy veteran, reflected on the importance of educating younger generations: “A lot of young folks have no idea what went into vehicles and what it took to get our troops over there.” His sentiment is shared by many who see the exhibit as an opportunity to bridge the generational gap.
Darrell LaRue, an Army veteran and former member of the transportation corps, is particularly passionate about the vehicles on display. “Some of these vehicles were my babies,” he said, reminiscing about the military vehicles he worked with. For LaRue, these machines represent more than just metal and wheels—they’re a connection to his service and the stories of his comrades.
The vehicles featured in the exhibit come from the renowned Tony Harrah Collection, a treasure trove of historical cars and military vehicles. It’s an honor for the museum to showcase these artifacts, which offer a rare glimpse into the past while honoring the legacy of those who fought for their country.
Veterans Day Celebration: A Time for Reflection
On Veterans Day, the museum will host a free lunch for veterans and their spouses, courtesy of “Port of Subs,” from noon to 2:30 p.m. The lunch will take place on Dianda Way, which will be temporarily renamed Veterans Way for the occasion. This community event aims to bring veterans together, not only to enjoy a meal but also to share their personal stories. These narratives will be recorded and preserved as part of the museum’s ongoing effort to document history.
“We want veterans to feel appreciated and share their stories, all for history’s sake,” MacDougall added. Veterans will also receive free admission to the exhibit on November 11, with valid identification, ensuring they can take full advantage of this special event.
The exhibit will remain open for a few weeks, offering plenty of opportunities for the public to visit, learn, and honor the brave men and women who served.