30 http://www.militaryvehiclesmagazine.com
by Bob Turley
I
n 2007, I drove my 1944 Dodge WC-63 Weapons Carrier
along in a parade with about a dozen vehicles from Camp
Pendelton’s Mechanized Museum. I was assigned to carry
the Pearl Harbor Survivors.
Honors to a local resident, Dick Rossi, highlighted the cer-
emony. Because he was one of the last Flying Tigers aces, I just
had to get a picture of this hero of WWII hisotry next to my
WC-63. He really made this an exceptional event for me — and
all who attended.
Unfortunately, Dick passed away a month later. ✪
My WC-63: A Solemn Tribute
When a military Dodge still serves
John Richard “Dick” Rossi resigned
his commission in 1941 to join
the American Volunteer Group
(AVG) under the command of Col.
Claire Chennault. Dick began his
fl ight training with the AVG upon
arrival in Burma, on Nov. 12, 1941.
By the time the AVG disbanded in
June 1942, Dick had earned 6.25
victories, making him a confi rmed
“Ace.” Photo courtesy of http://www.
WWIIJeepParts.com
My WC-63 transporting Pearl Harbor Survivors on Veterans Day, 2007
(LEFT) Though fi lled with memorable
activities, the highlight of Veterans Day, 2007,
was the chance to meet Dick Rossi and have
him pose with my WC-63. Unfortunately, Dick
passed away just a month after this photo
was taken. He was a true American hero.
