Veterans Day Tribute – The Motorcycle That Won the War
During WWII, Harley Davidson produced about 70,000 WLA and WLC military motorcycles for the US Army and their Allies. This is the motorcycle that won the war.
The WLA’s were used extensively by US Troops for messenger and Military Police duties. These bikes were nicknamed ‘Liberators’ in Europe since they were ridden by troops liberating their towns and countries from German occupation.
The best site on the web for the documented history of the WLA and the men who rode them can be found at The Liberator. I highly recommend you check it out. You can spend days going through the pages on this great website.
The above info and images courtesy of The Liberator.
If you are not doing anything this weekend you may want to add your name to the VFW Veterans Day Pledge. VFW Commander-in-Chief Thomas J. Tradewell, Sr., plans to carry the signed pledge with him throughout the year as he visits with America’s defenders. Veterans and service members around the world will see your signature and know our nation still cares. Hit the sign the pledge button below.
Notice; The White House has NOT approved this post or this website.
Thank you to all those who are serving, or have served our great country. Happy Veterans Day!
Great link to a cool post on those wartime harleys!
Thanks for the support you give veterans, from a veteran…..the Colors will fly proudly that day at my house. They’ll fly “because it’s expected” from the White House, not because they really honor veterans.
Comment by charlie6 — November 7, 2009 @ 6:42 am
Dear Electra Glide in Blue:
A great motorcycle ridden by a generation of supermen (and women) who could do anything. My father did not ride a Harley during the war. He rode twin fifties in the back of a B-17. Talk about one hell of a ride.
Fondest regards,
Jack • reep • Toad
Twisted Roads
Comment by Jack Riepe — November 7, 2009 @ 7:48 am
Charlie6,
That guy as put a lot of time in on that WLA site. I like how he breaks down all the information. Ride that hack of yours up here on Vets Day, I’ll have a spot reserved for you in the parade, and I’ll buy you lunch!
Comment by Electra Glide In Blue — November 7, 2009 @ 8:32 am
Jack,
I have a friend that was a tail-gunner on a B-17. He always say’s ‘the hero’s are the one’s that never made it home’. That generation of young men and women, is truly what won the war.
I’ll extend that Vets Day invitation to you Jack, if you leave by Monday you should be able to make it!
Comment by Electra Glide In Blue — November 7, 2009 @ 8:51 am
As usual, thanks for standing up for those who have given more than most could only dream of giving. Patriots still live, whether that be in or out of the military. A patriot does what you did here. Thanks for the links bro.
Comment by FLHX_Dave — November 10, 2009 @ 8:30 pm