MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO Va. -- Tim Ketchum a Montclair, Va. Resident shows that a car does not always have to shine to mean something special during the 2nd Annual Quantico Car Show aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico on Sept. 21, 2013.
He takes a different approach to the car show by using a demonstration of history and respect for those who have served.
"I like to promote World War II history because a lot of young people don’t know about it," said Tim Ketchum.
He has spent more than two years restoring a Willys MB Jeep made in 1943 and more than 39 years collecting historical objects for his presentation. His fascination about the Great War came from his father and uncle who served during it.
"He has always had a fascination with World War II because of the stories that his dad and uncle would tell him," Kay Ketchum, wife.
Ketchum is also the event coordinator for the Washington Area Collectors of Military Vehicles and Blue and Gray Military Vehicle Trust. The club is home to more than 200 members.
In order to enlighten the younger generation about historical events, the retired lieutenant colonel showcases a Jeep made in 1943.
"He is always happy to enlighten the younger generation about World War II history," said Kay.
The Jeep has been to numerous parades during the past 20 years, including historical reenactments and parades at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.
This was a hobby that could not be started at the drop of a dime, but not something that was impossible said Ketchum.
“[The Jeep] thing cost a lot of money we had to wait until we could justify the cost,” said Kay.
Some members of the club see him as a knowledgeable and outgoing person while other see him a something special.
“He is the glue that keeps all of these events going for us," said Army Lt. Col. Robert Conrad, member, Washington Area Collectors of Military Vehicles, and Blue and Gray Military Vehicle Trust.
Although Ketchum did not win an award during the Quantico Car Show, he has proven it does not have to be the newest car to shine bright.
Combat Correspondent: cuong.le@usmc.mil