OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Imagine a portable surgical hospital treating casualties during World War II.
If you were at the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, the weekend of Oct. 26-27, you had an opportunity to see history come to life as part of the Friends of the Marion County Veterans Park Foundation’s Veterans Appreciation Weekend. A living history encampment of a World War II field hospital served as a way to educate.
“It’s so important,” said Ocala Mayor Ben Marciano. We have so many veterans in our community. Just being able to thank them for what they do, also just to see the history and the vehicles and what’s displayed here, it’s important that we get our youth out here to understand our history and the sacrifices that were made for our country. So, I really love this day. It’s a great day. I’m looking forward to it happening every year and building on it.”
Ocala City Councilman James Hilty served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, from 1967-71 and was in Vietnam from 1969-1970.
“It’s nice to see the recognition,” stated Hilty, noting that many people overlook the true meaning of freedom. He stressed that, particularly during election season, it’s important to remember the sacrifices made by those who have served to protect that freedom. He highlighted the ongoing commitment to defending the Constitution, asserting that this responsibility has no expiration date.
The Florida Military Vehicle Heritage Group, a nonprofit organization, made a significant impact at the park by showcasing half-tracks, jeeps, trucks, and a helicopter. Their presence not only evoked memories for many attendees but also raised awareness about military history and the experiences of those who served. Ron Oppliger from the Friends of the Marion County Veterans Park Foundation emphasized the importance of the event, stating it helped educate the community about the sacrifices made by veterans, which enable us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.
The event included a weapons demonstration led by the group’s Secretary-Treasurer, Verne Jenkinson, a trained reenactor portraying a British armored crewman from the D-Day campaigns of 1944-1945 in Northwest Europe. “I’ve brought my Humber LRC, and we just completed a weapons demonstration,” he shared. “The collection showcases vehicles from across eras, with Humvees and a helicopter on display.”
“It’s an honor to have the Military Vehicle Heritage Group here, which is a national program. This is a chapter locally from the south and some of these guys came in all the way from North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama and Georgia, and brought their vehicles to the park,” said Oppliger.
Mike Judd from Salt Springs brought his 1942 Ford GPW, commonly known as the Willys Jeep, which was manufactured in a Dallas, TX plant in September 1942. Judd had purchased the vehicle from a Missouri farm in 2023 and completed an extensive frame-off restoration, meticulously rebuilding every component. The fully restored Jeep now runs and drives smoothly and is roadworthy.
“During [World War II], Willys couldn’t produce enough of them,” said Judd. “Using the Willys design, Ford made about 250,000 of them. Willys made about 350,000 of them.”
The gathering allowed visitors to get up close with the vehicles and learn more about the historical significance of military transportation and equipment. With an array of models spanning different conflicts and advancements in military technology, the event offered a unique educational experience, merging military heritage with community engagement.