Реставрированная колонна военных машин проехала более 2000 миль по маршруту Льюиса и Кларка к 250-летию США

The Brief - A 50-vehicle convoy of restored military vehicles spanning from World War II to the present departed Bismarck, North Dakota, on July 26 and is traveling more than 2,000 miles along the Lewis and Clark Trail to the Oregon Coast, marking the country's 250th anniversary. - The vehicles stopped in Hermiston to connect veterans' families with younger generations and educate the public about the role these machines played in military history across multiple decades. - After stopping overnight in Goldendale, the convoy will begin a 171-mile journey to Camas, Washington on August 12, with organizers planning to mark the completion of the cross-country trek at Fort Clatsop later this week. HERMISTON, Ore. — Engines rumbled to life in a Walmart parking lot here as a 50-vehicle convoy of restored military vehicles arrived to share a piece of American history with the community. The group departed Bismarck, North Dakota, on July 26 and is retracing portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail while honoring veterans and giving residents a chance to see these machines up close. The journey spans more than 2,000 miles from North Dakota to the Oregon Coast, coinciding with the nation's 250th anniversary celebration. The vehicles represent military history spanning from World War II to the present day. Rick Eades of Curtis, Washington, is one of the drivers piloting these historic vehicles across the country. He said the mission extends beyond simply moving metal and machinery from point A to point B. "We're here to support our troops, and this year, the 250th anniversary of our country. And we're also learning a lot of history here on this one," Eades said. While Eades did not serve in the military himself, his family has a military background. He said his restored vehicle serves as a conversation starter with visitors who want to learn more about military history and the sacrifices of those who served. "I just tell them it's like, well, my vehicle did. So not me, but, you know, thank you," Eades said. The convoy has encountered mechanical challenges along the way, but the team has managed to keep the vehicles operational throughout the journey. "There's been a few breakdowns, but we fixed them all, and everybody's been on the road," Eades said. Terry Shelswell, the convoy's leader, drives a 1952 Willys Jeep and emphasized the importance of connecting younger generations with their family's military heritage. These vehicles represent more than just restored machines—they are tangible links to the past spanning decades of American military service. "To show the public these vehicles and how they were in use when their fathers or family members were using them," Shelswell said. For Shelswell, the convoy's mission goes beyond preservation and restoration. He sees it as an educational opportunity to help younger people understand the significance of these vehicles and the contributions of their family members who served. "To educate the younger generation on the importance of these vehicles and their family members," Shelswell said. The convoy draws crowds at each stop along its route, with visitors eager to see the restored vehicles and learn their stories. The combination of mechanical history and personal connection resonates with communities across the country. After the Hermiston stop, the convoy will travel to Goldendale for an overnight stay before beginning a 171-mile journey to Camas, Washington on August 12. The group is headed toward Fort Clatsop, the historic site associated with the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Organizers plan to mark the completion of the cross-country trek when the convoy reaches the coast later this week. Each mile traveled represents another opportunity for conversation, education, and remembrance—keeping military history alive for generations to come. COPYRIGHT 2026 BY APPLE VALLEY NEWS NOW. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.