Ortona Dinner

[Hans Mulder]

I had a request to bring my carrier out to the Westie 150th Anniversary gala ball this past November, to serve as a photo backdrop. I pointed out that the old wooden armoury floor supports probably wouldn't support the weight, and the floor has just been recovered, so track marks would be no no. However, old anecdotes around the regiment indicate that officers' sports cars made appearances and even did laps across armoury in those good old days.

[RichCam]

Here, here!
I applaud Jeff, Bruce and Shaun for taking their carriers out of the "typical" parade comfort zone and for having some very memorable and unique "fun" at special events. I'm sure that each of the participants will have fond memories of the evening.
That being said, we all have to remember that there are people out there that will jump all over us if there were to be an "incident" with one our carriers at a special event. They wouldn't want us on the roads or at any remembrance occasions, they would want special escorts, licences and insurances, they would want the vehicles to be "static" and "safe" verses functional and actual.
So, let's be careful and respectful while demonstrating our machines. The restoration effort is a whole lot sweeter when you get the chance to drive them out in public.

[jeff davis]

Hey Hans the regiment used to park their Carriers on the parade square .
I believe the floor is 2x10 on edge with Tarmac put over it in ww2
Jeff

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

Originally Posted by RichCam

Here, here!
I applaud Jeff, Bruce and Shaun for taking their carriers out of the "typical" parade comfort zone and for having some very memorable and unique "fun" at special events. I'm sure that each of the participants will have fond memories of the evening.
That being said, we all have to remember that there are people out there that will jump all over us if there were to be an "incident" with one our carriers at a special event. They wouldn't want us on the roads or at any remembrance occasions, they would want special escorts, licences and insurances, they would want the vehicles to be "static" and "safe" verses functional and actual.
So, let's be careful and respectful while demonstrating our machines. The restoration effort is a whole lot sweeter when you get the chance to drive them out in public.

Don't be fooled into thinking these events aren't done without a 100% commitment to safety and courtesy. I 'commandeer' four privates to spot on all four sides of me for show and whether I think I need it or not. I insist on the most proficient military member I can find as a ground guide and won't move without eye contact. I ask them for a drip pan before they offer one even thought the carrier doesn't leak. When I fill the carrier with those wanting a ride they get a safety briefing. Even so, when it's military event, and assuming it's not cadets or recruits, I usually get a feeling they know their way around military vehicles and rarely give me cause for concern in that regard.