of WWII
Updated: 27
Jan 12Fame
the
beRED BALL CONVOY
"Red Ballin' Thru Arkansas"
5th Annual Red Ball Convoy has been Cancelled for 2012 - Updates for 2013 will be posted
Convoy is based on the “Red Ball Express
of WWII
Updated: 27
Jan 12Fame
the be
The 2013 registration will be posted at a later date. Click on "Registration" above.
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27 Jan 12 Important
information on the 2012 and 2013 Red Ball Convoys
Hello, Folks: This is to inform you that due to circumstances we will be canceling "Red Ballin' Thru the Ozarks" for 2012. The main reason for this is that Jerome Casey, who is the commander of the convoy will have to be out of state from the middle of April through the most of May due to his work schedule. The way the convoy is set up Jerome and Marsha assume most of the responsibilities for the planning and operation of the convoy, and it's not something that can be handed to someone else to take over. So our future plans are no convoy in 2012. We have been planning for the past couple of years to do a spring event in the town of Russellville, AR. We are in the process now of trying to get this set up for the spring of 2013. This will still be part of the Red Ballin' Thru the Ozarks program, but will be coordinated out of Russellville, to cover a different area of the Ozarks. It possibly may be called "Red Ballin' Thru Russellville". We' plan on changing the program so that we can include participation with the local residents. Russellville is very suportive of the veterans and the military and the city is very anxious to work with us on this event. They've been trying for the past 3 years to get us to do an event in their town. We want to include a convoy through the mountains around Russellville and see some of the beautiful areas that are available. Our event will possibly include displaying vehicles on Friday afternoon for student study and conversation with vehicle owners about the history of their vehicle, etc. This would substitute for our Friday visits to the Veteran's Hospital and cemetery. There aren't any veteran facilities in the Russellville area. On Saturday the planned convoy would be shortened some so that we could return to the staging area and our vehicles display would again be open to the public for public relations. The staging area will be on the beautiful lake Dardenelle. Camping will be available. We will also have a host motel. The BBQ and awards event will take place on Saturday evening. One local business has already volunteered to sponsor us. I think this event will at least equal the event at Fayetteville, with the major difference being a possible shortened convoy route. We have been contemplating alternating the spring convoy event between Russellville and Fayetteville over the past couple of years. Our next scheduled convoy out of Fayetteville would be the spring of 2014 and we expect that event to be updated and possibly expanded to again be a super event. This is just an expansion of our club activities to convenience a larger group of interested participants. For a lot of you that go to Fayetteville from the West the mileage wouldn't be much different. You would just be traveling east instead of north. Those coming from the east and the south the distance will be quite a bit shorter.
We're sorry not to have the event this spring.
We had thought about moving it to June, but there are so many other events
scheduled, the MVPA Convention, Petit Jean Mt. Show, the AK Convoy and other
local events that we just couldn't squeeze it in. We will miss seeing all
of our friends and acquaintances, but hope you understand our situation.
We'll be looking forward to seeing all of you
in 2013.
If you have any questions or comments, just
give us a holler.
Keep 'em Rollin',
Paul & Ev
Jerome & Marsha
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02 May: To All Red Ball Convoy Participants: We want to thank everyone who participated in the 2011 Red Ballin’ Thru the Ozarks Convoy. We had a great group and all were very helpful. We very much appreciate all the assistance everyone gave. It is the participants and your willingness to pitch in as well as your flexibility that makes this event a success and I believe we can consider the 2011 Convoy to be a success. We had a few mechanical ‘issues’ but thanks to the ingenuity of those involved they were all quickly resolved. Thanks for participating and we’ll keep you informed about our next event. We hope everyone’s travels home were safe and uneventful. Keep ‘em Rollin’ Jerome & Marsha |
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01 May: Howdy from Texas.
We got home after 4 hours of driving rain thru Arkansas
and 2 hours of sunshine in Texas. However, it is pouring down rain right
now at home. But I unloaded the jeep and put everything up in cover before
the rain.
Red Ball was better than ever!! You guys did a superb
job again and this year seemed even better! If you count the number from
Texans that did not come this year and Bill Barnes and his group of
vehicles, you would have had a 50 vehicle convoy this year. Wow! Even at
the high fuel costs!
What keeps bringing us, Jacki and I, back, in our
opinion and think the others from Texas, are the fine friendly folks from
Arkansas MVPA. You guys are great and we really enjoy being around you.
Thanks for letting us participate.
I especially enjoyed this year since I had a roll of responsibility; leading
the group to the VA and the National Cemetery and being "tail end Charlie"
in the convoy. I enjoyed my participation. Next year, let me help again.
I like the idea of next year that Paul told us about at the meeting Friday
night. It sounded fun. Please include us. I will miss going to the VA but
we can find something else to do in place of that, I am sure. I love to
talk to kids and explain these vehicles to them. Maybe we could go by a
high or jr. high school on Friday around Russellville and show them the
vehicles. I have done that in Texas. Lets be creative and come up with
something for Friday.
Again, thanks for your friendship and the fun we had on Red Ball!!
Sincerely Jerry and Jacki Gardner
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*29-30Apr: Overview of 4th Annual Red Ball Convoy -Thirty seven vehicles, eighty four people and 9 k-nines participated in the 4th Red Ball Convoy. (Photos 1 & 2) On Friday afternoon some of the vehicles convoyed to the Veterans' Home and the Fayetteville National Cemetery. (Photo 3 by Ken Smith) Line-up began around 7:00 a.m. and by 8:00 a.m. the convoy was ready to pull out. (Photo 4 by Ken Smith - Clayton Jones's long bed, hauling a miniature MV) The first stop was at Marsha Jones Casey's home, where mid morning snacks were served. Her front yard was filled with vehicles, ranging in size from jeeps to a long bed military truck. (Photo 5 - Marsha brought bottled water to those that wanted it) Our second stop was at the Prairie Grove Civil War Battle Grounds. We had an opportunity to visit the old buildings, talk with the gardeners and visit with visitors and each other. Due to recent flooding we didn't have the opportunity to drive over the battle grounds. The next part of the convoy took us through some steep roads to the Devils Den State Park. (Photo 6 the full flowing waterfall & 7 - flood damage to the walking bridge - photo by Steve Smith) The park had been mostly under water at the beginning of the week. The waters had receded, but the water-falls was running full. (Photo 8 - Red Ballers at the pavilion) The pavilion where we ate lunch was high and dry. Our forth stop, on the way back to Fayetteville, was at the Brentwood road side park. (Photo 9 - Here we waited for a couple of vehicles that had to make brief field repairs). Saturday evening we attended a BBQ and Awards Assembly. A large selection of photos are available on the Photo Gallery. Just click on the symbol at the top of the 1st column. (Photo 10 - Sammie London has a birds eye view from Marty's MV) (Photo 11 - Shelby Dennis, the youngest participant) (Photo 12 Unknown soldier catching a few winks) (Photo 13 - Vehicle lineup at Brentwood) (Photo 14 BBQ Line up) (Photo 15 - Paul Harless introduced the keynote speaker, Gen MacArthur - aka Bill Hobbs) (Photo 16 - Blue Bonnet Motorpool of TX received the award for the most members present. They were closely followed by East Texas Piney Woods Motorpool and Hell on Wheels (KS) with 5 members each present.
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30 Apr - 01 May 10: Overview of 3rd Annual Red Ball Convoy - We convoyed over for a visit to the Veterans' Home on Thursday (Photo 1). Registration took place in the afternoon and a drivers' meeting was held in the evening. Lineup was at 7:00 A.M with pull out scheduled for 8:00 a.m sharp. We started out with a drizzle of rain, but by noon the sun was out and it ended up a perfect day for a convoy. Our first stop was at Marsha Casey's home for refreshments (Photo 2). We stopped briefly at Brentwood Park (Photo 3) and then wound through paved and unpaved roads (Photo 4) to Ft. Smith Lake Park (Photo5), where we had a picnic lunch (Photo 6). On the way home we stopped to "fuel up" and met with some National Guard soldiers with their vehicles (Photo 7). Our final stop on the way home was at Brentwood Park (Photo 8). Saturday evening was the Awards and BBQ at the Greenville Community Church. Gen. MacArthur gave his "Farewell Speech" (Photo 9)
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01 MAY 10:
Several new vehicles
(from East Texas Piney Woods MVPA)
participated in the 3rd
Annual Red Ball Convoy . . .
Photos from Jerry Gardiner: Photos 1 & 2 - Les Branson is going to come with Rick Ellison and bring his M38A1C2 award winning jeep with a 106 recoilless rifle. Photo 3 - Mike Gilbert in his Command Car Photo 4 Mike Eckert's M35
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25 APR 09: Overview photos from 2nd Annual Red Ball Convoy: 1 Visit to the Veterans' Home 2 On display at the square in Huntsville 3. Road side state park 4. Convoy leader 5. Lunch stop at War Eagle Mill 6. Crossing the War Eagle Bridge7-8 Along the Route
Additional Photos of the 2nd Annual Red Ball Convoy are available in the Photo Gallery
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02 May 08: Overview photos from 1st Annual Red Ball Convoy:
1. Military vehicles at the Clarion Inn 2. Lineup at Lake Wedington
3. Stop at a Civil War Battle Grounds 4. Fuel stop at Hogeye Mall
5. Water Fall at Devil's Den Park 6. Participants pose for a picture on
the swinging bridge at Devil's Den State Park. 7. Check 'er out, Fix 'er up and
Keep 'em Rollin! 8. Saturday night BBQ at Airways Freight
Additional Photos of the 1st Annual Red Ball Convoy are available in the Photo Gallery. |
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Red Ballin’ Thru the Ozarks Convoy- important information *Please read all- there is new information below Planning for the 2013 Red Ballin’ Thru the Ozarks Convoy is underway. As with all of our events, SAFETY is of paramount importance. Please read all the information pertaining to the convoy. Please keep in mind the following points:
v We will be travelling on public roads and therefore need to be mindful of civilian driver’s on the road- some of whom may have never seen a military convoy before and therefore we all need to be looking out for them. v Our convoy is growing in both size and scope. v The variety of vehicles we have in our convoy is impressive, however, this requires more attention to detail and even more emphasis on SAFETY. v In this day and age of cell phone communication, texting, IPod ear phones, etc. it is imperative you drive defensively. v Please check and prepare your vehicle ahead of time. Check fuel levels, coolant, brakes, lights, tires, safety equipment and general condition of your vehicle in advance of the convoy. Oh yes, and windshield wipers just in case!! v A driver/co-driver’s meeting will be held the evening before the convoy. Both attendance and your complete attention during this meeting are requested. I ask that you please give us your full attention during this time. v Bring some water or snacks with you to hold you over between stops along with a receptacle to put any trash in while you’re on the road. v You are encouraged to bring along veterans who may enjoy such an event. v You are also encouraged to bring along riders of younger generations. These are the folks we need to expose to this history. v This is a family-oriented event. v Live weapons are not to be carried. If you have a live weapon mounted please either disable its function (i.e. remove the bolt, firing pin, etc) or remove it. v PLEASE make every effort to have your registration in as early as possible. v Did I mention SAFETY? v Pray for good weather but be prepared for poor weather. Conditions can change quickly as well. We suggest you be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain. v There are some very picturesque spots along the way so be sure and bring your camera. v Bring any era military vehicle- there will be some steep grades- the route is fully paved v Uniform is not required, but would be appreciated for the era of your vehicle v There are planned stops at points of interest and to visit v Evening Dinner after the convoy
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************************************************************************************************************************** 2011 RED BALL TEE
This is the design for the back of the
2011 Red Ball tees. The front will have the AR MVPA logo in the
pocket area. There may be some minor changes in the
design but this will give you an idea of what the tees will look
like. I can't give you an exact amount on the cost of the tees yet,
but will be in the near range of last years tees, depending on size,
pocket or non pocket. This year taxes will be figured into the
cost. Tees will probably range from $15.00 to $22.00. (depending on
size and pocket) If you want to be guaranteed a shirt in your size
you will need to pre-order. Please let me know what size, color and
style you want.
A. The Olive Drab tees only come in
adult sizes and without pockets (S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL)
B. Hunter Green (the approximate color
shown on this tee) comes in children's sizes, adult sizes and with
or without a pocket. Pocket tees generally run $1.00 extra.
(S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL) or specify if you ant Pocket
and give the size
Please let me know as soon as possible
if you would like to order a tee.
Thanks, Ev
Color Size Pocket or Non pocket
**T-shirts: remember to let Ev Harless know if your ordering convoy shirts (how many/sizes) so she can get them ordered. Ev’s email: plheh38@hughes.com. Pre-order your 2011 Red Ball tee – to guarantee you the size you need. Payment can be made when you pick up your tee at the convoy. . Ev Harless: plheh38@hughes.net or call in your order 501.727.5530 ************************************************************************************************************************** |
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Important Miscellaneous Information Vending or selling of items and equipment: There is no practical location for this activity. However, if you have something in or on your convoy or tow vehicle for sale you’re welcome to make it known. Uniforms: None are required. You are welcome to wear any uniform you desire as long as it is in a respectful manor regardless of what nationality it may be. Dress Code: None, however, common sense is the rule. Many of you will be travelling in open vehicles. Plan for changes in weather as it is spring in the Ozarks and the weather can change. Dress in layers as it will likely be cool in the morning and can be considerably warmer in the afternoon. You may want to wear eye protection in the form of glasses/goggles. Bring a poncho or rain gear in case. Weapons: De-milled weapons are welcome. Functional weapons and firearms are not necessary. Do not bring functional weapons on the convoy. Dummy weapons and ammo are fine. Personal weapons, knives, bayonets and similar items can cause problems so please leave them behind. Fueling: Be sure your convoy vehicle is fueled prior to the event. Plan on having a range of at least 125 miles. If you have a jerry can it would be a good idea to have some petrol in it just in case and for those that didn’t read this. All vehicles, with the exception of a motorcycle should have adequate range to make the entire route without making a fuel stop. There will be opportunities to refuel along the way if we do find it necessary. Safety: Is of utmost concern. You know your vehicle better than anyone. Keep adequate distance between you and the vehicle ahead to allow for safe stops. Wear safety glasses or goggles if necessary. Stray gravel, road debris and foreign objects on the route are always possible. We suggest you have water for drinking in your vehicle. Snacks or any medications you may require should be available in your vehicle as well. Vehicles: All vehicles must be military. They can be from any military from any nation of any era but they must be military. Vehicles should be equipped with a functional fire extinguisher that has been recently checked. Remember, dry chemical fire extinguishers have a tendency to settle over time. Make sure they will function if called upon. If you have chocks for your vehicle, particularly larger vehicles- bring them. All the usual reminders: check oil, lights, brakes, tires, etc and fuel up prior to the convoy’s departure. Keep items secure in your vehicle as well as any empty water bottles, candy wrappers, etc. We don’t want anything blowing out of your vehicle for the vehicle behind you to run over or get hit with. The only evidence of our passing should be good memories and photographs. Weight: This year's route will be unrestricted, that is, 5 tons will be able to participate as we don't have any clearance or weight restrictions Passengers: In the event you are hitching a ride in someone else’s vehicle please be mindful of their vehicle. Take care to enter and exit the vehicle carefully and not have any pens, pencils or other items in your pockets or on your person that may scratch paint, puncture seats or do other damage. Assembly: Convoy participants (drivers in particular) must be in the assembly area no later than 0700 on 1 May. Vehicle line up will begin will begin at 0730. Drivers should be in or next to their vehicles no later than 0715. Please do no line up until directed to do so or drive around the assembly area. This will assist in an orderly and safe departure. Communications: Designated convoy vehicles will have vehicle-to-vehicle communications. Keep in mind, we’re in the hills and radios don’t always work well. Stay alert and keep an eye on the vehicle ahead and behind. Convoy Order: the convoy order is pre-planned as much as possible. Squad leaders will direct you. You will have a designated position in the convoy. We try to accommodate everyone as much as possible. Please try to maintain this order throughout the convoy. Convoy Speed: will vary but maximum should be about 40 mph. Please be aware of the vehicle ahead and behind you. Don’t follow too close and do try to allow enough space behind you particularly when approaching uphill grades to allow large vehicles to retain a little momentum. Avoid stopping on uphill grades if at all possible. If you see a vehicle stopping it is better to stop at the base of a hill rather than on it. Remember: you are responsible for three vehicles, yours, the one in front and the one behind you. If you see the vehicle ahead or behind you pulling over, pull over with them. Spacing and road manners: on sections of the route on two-lane roads leave enough space between you and the vehicle ahead of you for civilian vehicles to safely pass. On four lane roads close up spacing and keep to the right. The only time we will travel in the left lane of four lane roads will be when approaching a left hand turn to another road. Try to maintain your speed as consistently as possible to avoid vehicles having to constantly adjust their speed. Some of this is unavoidable but if we can keep this to a minimum it will be helpful. Vehicle licenses and insurance: All vehicles must be properly licensed and insured for travel on public roads. Please have these documents on your person or in your vehicle at all times during the convoy. Breakdowns: we aren’t planning on having any!! However, please stay with your vehicle until help arrives and arrangements have been made. Make sure your vehicle is off the roadway if possible. If it is impossible to move the vehicle off the roadway dismount the vehicle and wait in a safe area. In order to avoid as many mechanical issues as possible please check fuel, oil & coolant levels and tire pressure as well as general function of the vehicle as thoroughly as possible before the convoy assembles. Security: Sad to say but I must also mention that you should have some means of securing your goods as well as your trailer while parked at the hotel. Items like fuel cans, pioneer tools, the trailer itself, etc. If you do not have a trailer lock I would suggest obtaining one or at least a length of chain and a padlock. I know some of you have made provisions for your vehicle to be secure as it was likely designed to be started without keys. For those of you who have not please take that into consideration in how/where you park and perhaps bring a chain and lock for your vehicle itself. Weather: We’re in the Ozark Mountains here so be prepared for any type of weather. It very well could be quite cool in the early hours. Be prepared for rain and hope for sunshine. I’m working as closely as I can with the weatherman but I can’t make any guarantees. Stops: We have a number of stops scheduled where you can grab a drink or a snack but if you want munchies along the way you may want to have those on hand prior to departure. Photography: Bring a camera! There will be some good photos opportunities. We will email or post further details as they become availab
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Red Ballin’ Contacts: Jerome Casey: 479-444-8990 sarge@dicksonstreet.com Dan Sharon: 479-855-7499 camera_dan@hotmail.com Lewis Anderson: 479-474-6311 lewander82@yahoo.com Paul Harless: 501-727-5530 plheh@cyberback.com If you have specific questions, concerns or suggestions please feel free to communicate them to me. If there’s something I’ve not touched on please let us know. If you want to receive my periodic emails (I try to keep them to a minimum) please send me a note to this email address and I’ll add you to my list: sarge@dicksontreet.com. I’m looking forward to our event as well as the reunion of prior participants and meeting this year’s new participants. Please keep in mind that although you get these communications from me there are others involved. Lewis & Molly Anderson, Dan Sharon, Ron Naef, Marty London, my wife Marsha and others have been very helpful and supportive of this event and I very much appreciate their assistance. This wouldn’t come together the way it does without them. Jerome Keep ‘em Rollin’
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The Red Ballin’ Thru the Ozarks Convoy is based on the “Red Ball Express of WWII Fame To the best of my knowledge the letters on the patch stand for: Transportation Corps Motor Transport Service Facts About the WWII Red Ball Express:
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