MARY BETH LYSOBEY
On the 12th of June 2021, a convoy of vintage military vehicles will be visiting the town of Norman, Arkansas when it makes a stop at the restored Normal High School. 30+ vehicles ranging from ¼ ton jeeps to 2 ½ ton trucks will make up the convoy. Vehicles will range from WW2 vintage to current issue. Participants will tour the school during this stop.
The 2021 Red Ball convoy, hosted by the Arkansas MV Travelers commemorates the Red Ball Convoy of World War II fame. The convoy will begin in the town of Mena and travel to Mountain Harbor Resort and return to Mena.
The original Red Ball Convoy lasted 82 days and operated over 6000 trucks. The Red Ball Express as the original operation was called was responsible for more than 412,000 tons of fuel, ammunition and equipment being transported.
77 years later we honor not only the men of the original Red Ball Express but all the men and women who have served in our nation’s military before and since World War 2.
The convoy will approach Norman on Highway 27 from Mt. Ida, turning on East Main Street and stopping at the Old Norman High School. Arrival is estimated to be between 1:30 and 2:00 pm. When departing the convoy will leave via Gurdon Ave. and West Main Street and continue to Mena.
The public is welcome to come and view the convoy, speak with participants, and see some rolling history.
The ARMVPA would like to thank the folks at the Old Norman High School for opening their doors as well as the Mena/Polk County Chamber of Commerce, the Marine Corps League detachment in Mena, AR, VFW Post 4451, and Mountain Harbor Resort for their support.
If you would like more information about the convoy visit: https://armvpa.jeep1942.com/red-ball-convoy/
