To celebrate this Memorial Day I decided it would be fitting for the Curb Blog to pay homage to some of the cars and trucks that have helped carry and protect our brave soldiers while serving our country at war. For this I’ve called in a last minute favor from a truly great American who might even have his hand in the design of some of the vehicles to be found on the battlefield of the future. John Caswell is a great designer whom I’ve always admired for his ferocious and artistic sketch style. I always look forward to seeing his work because you know you’re in for something exciting if not completely terrifying! John was kind enough to put together this thoughtful list of his 10 favorite American cars to see military action. Thanks buddy, next time I’ll try to give you more than a day!

1. Ford Model T – 1916

The durable, lightweight functionality of the Model T was well suited to navigating the rutted, cratered roads faced by those who fought in Word War I. Just as in peacetime, the Model T represented an efficient, easily maintained, and versatile way of getting around. Widely used in ambulance form, many American Field Service and Red Cross volunteer drivers, including Ernest Hemingway and Walt Disney drove Model T’s. (Source: National Museum of the US Air Force)

Bonus Experimental TRACKED VERSION!

2. Willys MB Jeep- 1941

Perhaps the most iconic military vehicle of all time, the original Jeep design served faithfully during WWII, the Korean War, and, in subsequent evolutions, throughout Vietnam and the early years of the Cold War. Strictly utilitarian in both function and appearance, the Jeep’s characteristic eight bar grill faced down countless foreign enemies and has become an enduring symbol of the courage and fortitude of the American military.

3. White/Diamond T M3 Half Track – 1940

Frequently seen on WWII battlefields, the M3 was originally developed by the White Motor Company and constructed by a variety of manufacturers. The half track was configurable for both weaponry and personnel transport. Key to the M3′s success was a combination of rear tracks with traditional pneumatic tires in front for go-anywhere versatility along with armored protection of the occupant zones and drivetrain. The truck featured adjustable armored shutters for the grill opening as well as a bulletproof windshield.

4. Cadillac Series 75 Armored Staff Car – 1942

When Supreme Allied Commander Dwight D. Eisenhower needed an armored car during WWII, he chose a Cadillac Fleetwood. Ike’s Caddy wasn’t exactly showroom stock; due to the need to travel freely in a war zone, it featured full armor protection and was painted in monotone olive drab. Still, the car made a dramatic statement in a way only a 40′s Cadillac can and afforded the occupants luxurious travel. After the war, the same car was used by Eisenhower during his time spent establishing the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe allowing for a unifed NATO military force.

5. Dodge WC-54 Ambulance – 1942

Throughout WWII and the Korean War, one of the primary vehicles for evacuating wounded from the battlefield was the Dodge WC-series ambulance. Whether running the injured from the front to Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals or transporting stable patients to recovery centers, for many, the Dodge WC-series ambulance represented hope for care and recovery from battlefield injuries. With four wheel drive and excellent ground clearance, the WC-series was more than capable off road, providing access to the far reaches of the combat theater.

6. REO Motor Car Co. M35 “deuce and a half” – 1951

Serving for 58 years and still going strong: the M35 “deuce and a half” has become a familiar, if easily overlooked, sight during American military operations. But where there’s heavy lifting to be done, the M35 can be counted to complete the task, from fuel truck to troop carrier, the ability to operate behind the scenes has made this truck a necessary and indispensable vehicle to keep the troops moving forward.

7. Oshkosh M984 Heavily Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck (HEMTT) Wrecker – 1982

The HEMTT is the ultimate logistical support rig. Like the M35, this off road capable truck operates behind the scenes, though it is impossible to ignore. 8 driven wheels. 29 tons. 8 feet wide. and designed to adapt to a multiplicity of tasks, the HEMTT does the impossible.

8. AM General High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) “Hummer” – 1984

Throughout its 25 years of service, the Hummer has established itself as the ultimate light tactical vehicle. Emminently capable, it picked up where the iconic Jeep left off as the general use, multi task workhorse of military land vehicles. Originally envisioned during the Cold War and adapted over time to its current up armored, mine-resistant iteration, the HMMWV’s elegant, aluminum unibody construction has proven unparalleled in adaptability and toughness.

9. Chenowth Racing Products DPV – 1991

Essentially a heavy duty, weapons grade dune buggy, the Desert Patrol Vehicle places the emphasis on moving fast to cover ground quickly. Used exclusively by Navy SEALs and Special Forces in desert climates, the DPV offers a level of speed and maneuverability not seen in other military land vehicles. In 1991, during Operation Desert Storm, the first American combat forces in Kuwait City were Navy SEALs in Chenowth DPVs. With an available extended range of over 1000 miles, the DPV can carry a Special Ops team deep into hostile territory and give them an extra dose of what they thrive on, the element of surprise.

10. General Dynamics IAV/ICV Stryker – 2002

By integrating 21st century technology into an advanced combat vehicle, the Stryker has evolved perception of the modern battlefield. Through advanced communcations combined with powerfully configured armored vehicles, Stryker Brigade Combat Teams have formidable capabilities. With greater awareness of various elements in a combat theater, the Stryker teams can move and adapt while making more informed tactical decisions under extreme conditions.