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On May 31, 2008 Vance Crowder and Will Morgan will embark on the second leg of their 18,000 mile journey in a World War II era 1948 Jeep Willys.  The pair will be driving the stock Jeep through all 48 States in hopes of raising awareness and to support the wounded soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. With an average speed of only 30 mph they anticipate the total driving time to be in excess of 628 hours. 

Vance and Will have both been avid Jeep collectors for more than 20 years and they recently hit the jackpot when they found and purchased a 1948 Jeep Willys from the original owner.  Colonel Nick Fallier, the 85 year old original owner of the Jeep Willys was a decorated Fighter Pilot in World War II and he bought the Jeep new in 1948 when he returned from his overseas tour of duty.  He had cherished the Jeep for over 59 years and it was even a regular on the old television series "Gentle Ben".  Since nobody was driving the Jeep anymore the decision was made to sell it.

There are thousands of War Veterans just like Colonel Fallier that spent countless hours and miles in similar Jeeps in brutal conditions.  These soldiers relied on the old Jeeps to get them through some of the most challenging terrain and conditions in the world.  To this day the Jeeps continue to amaze even the most experienced off-road enthusiast by navigating through what seemed to be impassable obstacles.   

Although this entire trip will be on paved roads, the age and top speed of the Jeep is sure to create some challenges along the way.  Their goal is to schedule special events along the way in an effort to raise funds for foundations supporting the wounded soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.  A map of their route and more details regarding the trip can be found at http://www.jeepbrokers.com/roadtrip_home.htm

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