Guard members restore 1940 command vehicle

Monday, April 10th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) -- A World War II Army National Guard reconnaissance command vehicle can go rolling along now in parades after workers at a maintenance shop in Norman put more than a little elbow grease into getting it running again.

Sgt. Matt Steffee said it took several months for the restoration, which involved bodywork, paint and rebuilding the engine.

The 1940 Dodge VC-1 was one of 2,155 made. It is one of eight known to be in operational condition, according to curator Mike Gonzales of Oklahoma's 45th Infantry Division Museum.

The staff of 80 at the Combined Support Maintenance Shop State Surface Maintenance Office in Norman worked on the vehicle. They normally repair Army National Guard vehicles, but refurbishing the vintage Guard vehicle was a first.

"Our staff of 80 at the Norman facility do major repairs on Army National Guard equipment and weapons for the entire state," said Maj. Warren Griffis.

The Guard also maintains the outside exhibits at the 45th Infantry Division Museum in Oklahoma City.

Gonzales said parts for the car acquired in 1976 are scarce.

"We intend to use the car in parades, especially those in commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War," Gonzales said.