Club Spotlight: AR ‘MV’ Travelers
by Jerome Casey The AR MVPA, also known as the AR “MV” Travelers, was established in September of 1991 by a small group of men in Hardy, Ark. It became…
by Jerome Casey
The AR MVPA, also known as the AR “MV” Travelers, was established in September of 1991 by a small group of men in Hardy, Ark. It became an affiliate of the International MVPA in March of 1992. The AR MVPA has continued to grow in numbers and strength.
In December 2000, membership included 19 families. With a drive for new members in 2002, the membership grew to over 100. By Dec. 31, 2015, membership had expanded to 162 families.
The club membership covers a substantial portion of Arkansas as well as numerous other states. During this same period the vehicle ownership has grown from approximately 40 to more than 500. Our vehicles are in various stages of restoration, ranging from “as found” to international convention show winners.
Our Mission:
*To preserve and restore military vehicles for current and future generations
*To exhibit our vehicles in a patriotic manner
*To honor the veterans who have served, and are serving to maintain and protect our freedom
*To instill in young people a respect for military history
*To provide enjoyment for family and friends
The AR MVPA is an active club, participating in many patriotic and veteran’s support events. They also host an annual rally on Petit Jean Mt. every September where they have from 50 to 100-plsu vehicles on display and all the members are fed from an MKT Kitchen trailer. The group also conducts trail rides and other festivities.
The club host an annual “Red Balling through the Ozarks” convoy that has had from 20 to nearly 50 vehicles participating. This convoy provides camaraderie, fun, friendship and commemorates the military convoys of the past.
Club membership covers all age brackets. Events and meetings are especially family friendly. Children and spouses are active in all of our activities, in support of events, and in driving vehicles which range from M274 Mules to 6x6s. While many members are veterans, the club has numerous non-veteran members.
For more info: Arkansas MV Travelers, Ev Harless, 1279 Ada Valley Rd., Adona, AR 72001or visit: www.armvpa.com
From the staff of North America's no. 1 historic military vehicle source -- Military Vehicles Magazine
