New Jeep owners soon discover a tradition that has been around perhaps as long as Jeeps, the Jeep Wave. Some may think it strange or even silly, but before you judge
perhaps take a moment and consider this:
During World War II the Jeep was always on the move, often running back and forth from the front lines delivering vital supplies or urgent messages, or to
carry wounded soldiers, attempt rescues or bring reinforcements. Some say this is where the Jeep wave began as a way to know friend from foe or to acknowledge
an officer without a salute that might alert enemies of a high ranking official. Or perhaps it was just a simple gesture from soldiers in one Jeep to
another Jeep as they passed. A sign of camaraderie and respect between courageous souls in dark and dangerous times.
Other's say the Jeep wave began after the war when the soldiers returned home. During the war the Jeep had earned a place in the hearts of many soldiers and as
a result, many of those who made it home, wanted to own their own Jeep. Often the drivers of Jeeps passing on roadways would wave at each other, as they knew
most likely each other had served.
Finally some claim the wave began only when civilians started buying Jeeps and taking them off road. The shared fun and excitment of tackling seemingly
impossible trails and obstacles in the nimble Jeep, naturally builds a kinship with other Jeepers. The wave acknowledges that shared understanding and
appreciation of the Jeep's amazing capabilities and the enjoyment ownership can bring.
So next time you see a Jeep, give a wave and if you don't get one in return, don't be offended, just consider it a wave for the 'One and Only Jeep' and what it
represents, our freedom and the brave souls who fought for it.
May 7, 2005 - Canadian Veteran waves from a WWII Jeep during a parade in Nijverdal in the Netherlands.
September 13, 2010 - Veteran Frank Galdio, 92, of London waves the victory sign as he rides in jeep in the annual Warriors Day parade at the Western
Fair in London.
February 4, 2011 - WWII veteran Barney Benard waves at spectators from a 1943 Marine Corps Jeep driven by Bob Bovee in the East Helena Veterans Day
Parade.
November 7, 2011 - Charleston South Carolina parade grand marshal and WWII veteran Alvin Nelson, riding in a Jeep.
"The Jeep Wave: An honor bestowed upon those
drivers with the superior intelligence, taste, class,
and discomfort tolerance to own the ultimate
vehicle - the Jeep. Generally consists of vigorous
side-to-side motion of one or both hands, but may
be modified to suit circumstances and locally
accepted etiquette."
During World War II the Jeep was always on the move, often running back and forth from the front lines delivering vital supplies or urgent messages, or to
carry wounded soldiers, attempt rescues or bring reinforcements. Some say this is where the Jeep wave began as a way to know friend from foe or to acknowledge
an officer without a salute that might alert enemies of a high ranking official. Or perhaps it was just a simple gesture from soldiers in one Jeep to
another Jeep as they passed. A sign of camaraderie and respect between courageous souls in dark and dangerous times.
