The 2013 Midwest Willys Jeep Reunion: Mission Accomplished

Bob Christy and featured speaker Derek Redmond

The 21st Annual Spring Midwest Willys Jeep Reunion went full throttle during the weekend event on May 17-19 in Hudson, Ohio. Featured Jeep models were the CJ3A and CJ3B with plenty of each varying from un-restored originals, to restored like new ones, and even to a couple modified as rockcrawlers.

“There were over 100 Jeeps in the parking lot of the Clarion Inn on Saturday, and it was a fantastic opportunity for me to speak to over 160 Willys fans at the banquet,” says guest speaker Derek Redmond. His talk was on how Willys Jeeps from Ohio became a worldwide marketing phenomenon in the 1950s.

Onsite vendors were offering items like Jeep Wrangler accessories and underdash lighting kits. “There were many vendors selling new and used parts including a complete CJ2A kit including the frame,” says Woody Burnett of 4WD Commercial Sales. Woody was impressed by the tech seminars, including one by Rommel Juan of MD Juan, the premier builder of original style Willy's and Jeep bodies and accessories. Rommel came all the way from the Philippines and his technical presentation was given to a full house with standing room only.

“A lot of people who displayed their Jeeps used an MD Juan tub in restoring their projects,” says Rommel. “They were happy to show us their Jeeps and how pleased they were that MD Juan products were available, making it easier for them to restore their old Jeeps with rusted out tubs.”

Willys Jeeps on display at the Reunion

Saturday evening concluded with the presentation of the Toledo Brick awards for several people that have been influential in keeping the Willy’s history and traditions alive. To cap the evening off there was a drawing for door prizes from vendors including a neon Willy's Parts & Service clock, gift certificates and apparel.

“This year's event in Hudson had to be one of the best ever,” says Redmond. He describes the parade of 20 Willys Jeeps through Cuyahoga National Park on Sunday as a trip back in time. “This event was in its 21st year and there was a great showing of the loyalty Willy's and Jeep enthusiasts have for the vehicles we all know and love,” says Burnett.

Plans are gearing up for the 19th Annual Fall Midwest Willys Jeep Reunion & Swap Meet. It will take place September 13-15 in Jefferson City, Missouri and details can be found at the Willys Reunion website.

A well restored classic Jeep

David Beran is a Copywriter at 4WD