August 01, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Fort St. John, Historic & Heritage Sites
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Has it really been 70 years since the Alaska Highway was built? I guess it must be since a celebration for the 70th Anniversary of the Alaska Highway is taking place in Fort St. John today. The Western Command Military Vehicle Historical Society are driving the entire Alaska Highway in historic military vehicles! The convoy expects their trip to take the whole month of August with several planned stops in several communities between Dawson Creek (Mile 0) and Fairbanks, Alaska to show off all of their authentic and classic vehicles. Since the military vehicles were on display for several hours this afternoon at the Fort St. John North Peace Museum, I dropped by to see the various vehicles that contributed to various military efforts. After talking to a few people, I was amazed that the vehicles I was seeing with my own eyes assisted in the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and even World War II. I could feel the pride and passion the individual vehicle owner’s had for their motorized piece of history, the military, and for their country. There we many Fort St. John residents taking pictures, asking questions, and taking a temporary seat while pretending to drive an old military vehicle. The owners of the vehicles put in the extra effort while dressing in army green uniforms. They were also very friendly and chatty, which allowed me to ask many questions and learn about their convoy even more. This evening, a banquet complete with 1940’s era music is being put on at the Fort St. John Legion to conclude today’s celebrations. If you’re located along the Alaska Highway, be on the lookout for the Western Command Military Vehicle Convoy! Make sure you find out when and where the group will be stopping by in your community and help celebrate the Alaska Highway’s 70th Anniversary.